Knowing Which Contractors To Work With

A home's roofing system is the first line of defense against moisture. The shingles that cover your home's roof play an important role in preventing leaks and other types of damage from affecting the structural integrity of your home.

It's not uncommon for shingles to go missing as a result of high winds, storm damage, or old age. It's important that you have missing shingles replaced as quickly as possible if you want to avoid more serious roof problems in the future.

1. Loss of Weatherproofing

Weatherproofing materials are placed underneath shingles during a roof installation. These weatherproofing materials provide your home protection against unwanted air drafts and moisture infiltration.

Shingles offer protection for these weatherproofing materials against sunlight and temperature fluctuations. When a shingle goes missing, the weatherproofing material beneath is exposed.

Damage to these weatherproofing materials can make it impossible for your roof to keep water out of your home. Replacing missing shingles quickly will limit exposure and protect the weatherproofing abilities of your roof.

2. Structural Damage

The roof is a critical part of your home's building envelope. When shingles go missing and moisture is able to penetrate your roofing system, this could spell disaster for the structural elements of your home.

The foundation and structural beams in your home are probably made of wood. Exposure to moisture can cause these wood beams to soften and rot. They will no longer be able to support the weight of your home, causing walls to crack and ceilings to sag.

Repairing damaged beams can be costly, but if you replace missing shingles quickly, you can avoid any permanent water damage that might weaken the structural integrity of your home.

3. Pest Infestations

Missing shingles make it easier for pests to gain access to your home. Pest infestations can cause major problems throughout your residence.

Rodents can chew through wires and damage insulation. Birds can build nests that create fire hazards in your home. Insects can damage the materials used to build your home. Eliminating a pest infestation and repairing the damage these pests can cause is costly.

If you replace your missing shingles as quickly as possible, you will reduce the timeframe in which pests can enter your home through the roof with ease.

Missing shingles mean major weaknesses in your roofing system. Replace missing shingles immediately to avoid further damage and protect the strength of integrity of your home. Reach out to a roofing repair professional in your area to get started.