Northern Virginia’s summer storm season is upon us, and the shingles are flying. We routinely get calls about whether it’s possible to replace a handful of missing shingles. The short answer is usually yes. However, a patchwork approach isn’t always the best solution.
Is It Hard To Match Missing Shingles?
The elements can take a toll on your shingles. If you’ve had your roof for a few years, fading can make it hard to match existing shingles. Ongoing supply chain issues have also made getting specific styles more challenging. Save extra shingles when you get a new roof installed: you may need to replace them later. But you may not get an exact match after a few years of sun, wind, and rain. With an older roof, a perfect match is essentially impossible. Mismatched shingles create an unattractive patchwork effect that reduces curb appeal–and your home’s resale value. Don’t settle for mismatched shingles as a quick fix.
Will My Insurance Pay for a Few Missing Shingles?
If you only need to replace a few shingles, your contractor may be able to replace them successfully. However, it’s likely to cost less than your insurance deductible, so you can expect to cover the cost out of pocket. Sometimes your insurance company will replace the entire roof when shingles are missing. Insurers are generally required to replace missing shingles with “same quality materials.” However, that doesn’t necessarily mean shingles must be the same color. Here are a few steps you can take to be proactive when it comes to getting the most out of your insurance policy.
- Reread your insurance policy before damage occurs so you know your options if you lose shingles.
- Shop around when buying homeowners insurance. Some policies now cover a complete roof replacement when partial damage occurs.
- Take a photo of your roof before the next summer storm in case you need a before-and-after comparison.
- Choose a roofing contractor that specializes in working directly with insurance companies.
What Can Happen If I Don’t Replace Missing Shingles?
As the old saying goes, a stitch in time saves nine. A missing shingle or two is one of those little problems that can turn into a huge problem. Addressing missing shingles promptly can save headaches and money down the road. Here are some of the issues that can arise if you don’t replace missing shingles:
- The roofing felt paper underneath your shingles is a protective layer. However, it’s not designed for long-term exposure to the elements. If you have a missing shingle, your felt paper can tear or disintegrate, leading to roof leaks.
- Roof leaks can lead to damage in your attic and stains on ceilings.
- Moisture in your home can cause unhealthy mold and mildew.
- Roof leaks can cause structural damage to your roof, including rafters, framing, and joists.
- Moisture in your attic can damage insulation and cause energy bills to rise.
- Roof leaks and rotting wood attract termites and other pests.
Missing Shingles? Time to Look at the Bigger Picture
If you lose shingles because of storm damage, don’t consider it a one-off. Instead, it’s an excellent time to assess your roof’s integrity. DryHome can help. As a top Northern Virginia roofing contractor for more than 30 years, we specialize in:
- Roofing inspections
- Storm damage repairs
- Structural repairs
- Roof replacement
No job is too small. If we can replace missing shingles and achieve an excellent result, we’ll do it. We’ll also let you know if we think it’s time for a new roof with high-quality shingles from top suppliers, including CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning. A DryHome roof offers aesthetic appeal, solid protection from the elements, and excellent warranties. We’re also insurance claim experts. Damage assessment by a qualified professional is an essential component of a successful claim. Our team will coordinate with the insurance adjuster and help you file your claim. A few missing shingles may not seem like much, but they can lead to significant problems if not addressed. Instead of a piecemeal solution, take the opportunity to look at the bigger picture and ensure your roof will provide curb appeal and protection from the elements for years to come.
