Shingle roofing is one of the most popular roofing options in Oakville. Most homeowners prefer shingles because they’re versatile, affordable and easy to maintain. Like all other roofing materials, shingles have their drawbacks. One major disadvantage of shingle roofing is that it can blow off when you least expect it. It’s not uncommon for shingles to snap off or become dislodged especially when there’s a storm. We’ll take a look at some popular reasons why shingles blow off and what you can do about it.
High quality vs. low-quality shingles
When installing roofing shingles, never opt for the cheapest option available in the market. Shingle roofing is not all created equal. Different manufacturers offer varying levels of quality of roofing shingles. Both asphalt and fiberglass shingles are made with one important component known as the self-sealing strip. This strip appears black in colour and runs through the length of the roofing shingle. It’s usually about an inch in thickness.
The self-sealing strip in roofing shingles works by ensuring the shingles seal together properly when placed on top of each other. The thicker the strip, the better the shingle adheres to the next one.
When shopping for shingle roofing, make sure you check the width of the self-sealing strip. If the manufacturer offers a 10-year guarantee against the shingle roofing blowing off, chances are that they have a proper self-sealing strip and are very unlikely to come out once installed.
If you choose the cheaper shingle roofing, there’s a high chance that the self-sealing strip is very thin and some of the shingles won’t seal properly during installation. These are the kind of shingles that get easily blown off whenever there are strong winds.
How and when was the shingle roofing installed?
Installation is key in making sure your shingle roofing remains intact for the longest period. Avoid installing shingle roofing during the cold weather because they won’t seal properly to each other. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation on the ideal weather condition for the shingles being installed.
One of the main reasons for blown off roofing shingles is improper installation. Some installers don’t pay attention to how they nail the shingles. The manufacturer provides clear instructions on the exact place where you must nail shingles. If these instructions on nail placement are not followed, the shingles are likely to be blown off easily.
When the nails are placed too far on the left or right of the shingle, it can cause issues like roof leaks. Installers have to pay attention and put the nails in the right place. Also, if the nails are not put in fully or are put at an angle instead of straight, it can cause problems. The roofing shingles don’t lay flat which makes it hard for them to seal properly. The shingles will look raised a bit, which allows dust to blow underneath them and further compromising the self-sealing component beneath.
If you notice blown off shingles on your roof, hire a reputable contractor to offer the roof repair in Oakville.