How To Replace Blown off Shingles [DIY Repair Guide]

If you’re a homeowner, you know how important it is to keep your roof in good condition. Unfortunately, roof shingles can become damaged or blown off due to severe weather conditions, strong winds, poor installation, wear and tear, or other factors. A missing shingle can not only be an eyesore but can also cause damage to your home’s structure and lead to leaks. 

But fear not, you don’t need a full roof replacement for a few blown-off or cracked shingles. You can tackle replacing blown-off shingles as a DIY enthusiast with some know-how and the right tools. 

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps you need to take to replace blown-off shingles and get your roof back to its former glory. So let’s get started!

Safety First

Safety should always be the top priority when replacing blown-off roof shingles. Working on a roof can be dangerous, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the proper safety equipment and procedures.

Wear appropriate clothing, including slip-resistant shoes, and use a safety harness if possible. You should also have a sturdy and stable ladder to access your roof and ensure it is placed on solid ground and secured properly.

Additionally, you should note the weather conditions before your roof repair. Avoid working on your roof in wet or windy conditions, as this can increase the risk of slips, falls, or other accidents.

Assess the Damage

Before you start any roof repairs, though, it’s crucial to examine your roof and identify the extent of the damage. This will help you determine the number of roof shingles that need to be replaced and ensure that you have the necessary tools and materials.

Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, holes, or other signs of wear and tear. It’s also important to check the surrounding shingles to see if they’ve been affected. If you notice any signs of damage, it’s best to start roof repairs as soon as possible to prevent further issues down the line.

Gather the Necessary Tools

You can avoid delays and ensure the repair is done efficiently and effectively by having all the necessary tools and materials before starting the repair job.

Here’s a breakdown of the tools you’ll need to repair roof shingles:

• Pry bar
• Hammer
• Roofing nails
• Replacement shingles
• Roofing adhesive
• Utility knife

Remove the Damaged Roof Shingles

To remove the damaged shingle, you’ll need to use a pry bar to carefully pry and lift the loose shingle and remove nails. Be careful not to damage the surrounding roofing shingles while doing so.

Completely remove the damaged roof shingle to ensure the new shingle fits snugly into place and the roof has a smooth surface. Leaving debris or old adhesive on the roof can cause issues with the new shingle’s adherence or cause water to seep through and further damage the roof’s structure.

Prepare the Area

Use a utility knife to trim any excess adhesive strips, remaining nails, or debris from the spot where the damaged shingle was removed. This will create a clean, flat surface for the replacement shingle to rest on. 

Additionally, if the area where the shingle was removed is particularly dirty or dusty, use a brush or a damp cloth to clean it off before installing the new shingle. This will help to ensure that the adhesive adheres properly and that the replacement shingle stays in place.

Install the New Shingles

To repair roof shingles, apply a small amount of roofing adhesive to the back of the shingle using a caulking gun or a putty knife. Then, carefully slide the new shingle into place, aligning it with the existing shingles.

Once the new shingle is in place, secure it by hammering roofing nails into the shingle. Typically, you’ll need to use at least four nails per shingle, with two nails on each side of the shingle.

Drive the nails through the shingle and into the roof decking or sheathing beneath it, ensuring they’re flush with the shingle surface.

Never nail through the sealing strip on the shingle, as this can cause water to leak into your home. Instead, nail just above the sealing strip, on the nail strip. Drive the nails at a slight angle to prevent them from popping out.

Seal the Shingles

After installing the replacement shingle, apply a small amount of roofing adhesive or sealant to the top.

Use a caulking gun or a putty knife to apply a thin layer of adhesive to the shingle’s top, ensuring to cover any exposed nail heads. Then, gently press down on the shingle to ensure it adheres properly to the roof. 

Don’t apply too much adhesive. It can create a bulge in the shingle, making it more susceptible to damage. A small, even adhesive layer is all you need to create a strong and durable seal.

Repeat these steps for any additional damaged or missing roof shingles.

Inspect the Roof

After you’ve replaced the damaged or missing shingles, you’ll want to ensure everything looks secure and that matching shingles are in good condition.

Inspect the area where you replaced the old shingles. Ensure the replacement shingles are securely fastened and flush with the surrounding shingles. Check for any gaps where water could potentially seep in.

Clean Up

Remove any debris and materials used during the repair process, such as roofing material, old roof shingles blown off by the wind, nails, and roofing adhesive.

Clean up any dust or debris that may have accumulated on your roof or gutters during the repair process.

Finally, ensure you store any tools or equipment used during the repair process in a safe and secure place.

By following these steps, you should be able to repair roof shingles and restore your roof’s integrity and appearance. However, if you’re not comfortable working on replacing shingles on your roof or if the damage is extensive, it’s always best to seek the help of a professional roofer.

Partner With Melo Roofing

If you require a professional roofing contractor to repair roof shingles blown off by the wind, look no further than Melo Roofing. Our team of experienced and skilled roofers is dedicated to providing high-quality roofing services to homeowners in your area.

At Melo Roofing, we understand the importance of a well-maintained roof and its impact on the overall value of your home. That’s why we use only the best materials and techniques to ensure your roof is restored to its original condition.
Our team is fully licensed and insured, and strives to exceed our client’s expectations every step of the way. So if you’re ready to partner with a roofing company that puts your needs first, look no further than Melo Roofing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help restore your roof to its former glory.