Storms can cause significant damage to your roof, especially to the shingles. At first glance, everything might seem fine—there might not be any visible damage from the ground, or none of your shingles may have blown off.
However, even if it looks like your roof weathered the storm without issue, you might notice that some shingles have been lifted. Sometimes, the shingles may appear to be intact but are actually loose from the storm’s force, raising the question: “Do I need to replace shingles that were lifted during the storm?”
While it might be tempting to delay repairs and assume that lifted shingles are just an aesthetic concern, they can lead to serious, costly structural issues if left unaddressed.
Here we’ve outlined what causes shingles to lift during storms, the potential risks of not replacing them, and how a roofing contractor can help homeowners resolve these issues.
How Are Shingles Lifted Up from a Storm?
1. High Winds
Strong winds are one of the most common culprits of lifted shingles. Shingles are designed to lie flat and form a protective barrier. However, winds exceeding their wind-resistance rating (typically 60–130 mph) can break the seal that holds the shingles to your roof. Once the adhesive seal weakens, shingles can partially lift or tear off entirely.
2. Hail or Debris Impact
Hailstorms and flying debris can also cause shingles to lift. A damaged shingle loses its ability to resist strong winds, leaving your roof vulnerable. Once compromised, a damaged shingle can lead to various problems, including lifting, which may expose your roof to further issues.
3. Aging or Poor Maintenance
Over time, shingles naturally deteriorate due to sun exposure, temperature fluctuations, and weathering. Storm-related damage is more likely if your roofing system is aging or poorly maintained. Old, brittle shingles are particularly susceptible to being lifted by strong winds.
4. Improper Installation
If a qualified contractor did not install your roof, it might not hold up during extreme weather. Mistakes like incorrectly nailed shingles or improper overlaps can weaken the roof’s ability to resist storm damage.
What Happens if You Don’t Replace Lifted Shingles?
Ignoring lifted shingles can lead to a domino effect of damage. Here’s what could happen if you delay replacing them:
1. Water Leaks and Roof Rot
Water damage may cause your shingles to “curl” or “lift” up and expose the materials under your roof. These would eventually lead to your roof having moisture damage or roof rot. If that is the case, you could be facing expensive repairs or replacement.
2. Higher Energy Bills
A compromised roof affects your home’s insulation and energy efficiency. Gaps created by lifted shingles allow heat to escape during winter and enter during summer, forcing your HVAC system to use more electricity to maintain a comfortable temperature.
3. Shortened Lifespan on Your Roof
One damaged area can weaken the surrounding shingles and underlayment. If left unaddressed, your roofing system could deteriorate, requiring a complete roof replacement much earlier than expected.
4. Complications with Insurance Claims
Not addressing roof damage can complicate your insurance claims in the long run. Insurance companies might deny coverage if they determine that subsequent damage occurred due to neglect.
In short, yes, you need to replace shingles lifted by a storm. They’ve been compromised and will not protect your home in the way they should.
Call a Roofing Contractor to Inspect Lifted Shingles
Professional roofing contractors have the tools and knowledge to replace your roof shingles quickly and safely. We recommend homeowners work with GAF-certified roofing contractors who offer free roof inspections to handle roof repairs.
Addressing roofing issues should be hassle-free. SEI Roofing strives to exceed your expectations at every step, from timely responses to thorough cleanups after the project. We also provide GAF-certified shingles designed to withstand severe weather in style. Our skilled crew will replace your damaged shingles efficiently, making your roof stronger and more efficient.
Request a Free Inspection to Replace Shingles Lifted Up from a Storm
Leave the hard work to us! Whether it’s high winds, simple wear and tear, or impact from hail, SEI Roofing has the skills and materials to restore your roof to its full potential.
Our team will examine the extent of damages and check for lifted shingles, compromised underlayment, and other potential weak points. Take the proactive approach and request a free inspection on your roof with SEI Roofing today!
