A damaged roof comes with several consequences: In a superficial sense, your home looks neglected. In a more serious sense, water could inadvertently start leaking into your attic. As a result, you could end up with damaged insulation and mold growth.

Sometimes, the damage is so minor, you may not even notice when it first happens (which is one of the reasons why it’s so important to schedule regular roof maintenance). Other times, you may notice damaged asphalt or missing shingles in various spots around your home. Is there anything you can do to replace them yourself?

[slideshare id=138154124&doc=asw-1902-slideshare-howtoreplacemissingordamagedasphaltshinglesin8steps-190325212058]

How to Replace Missing or Damaged Shingles in 8 Steps

First things first: Keep in mind that if there are several damaged shingles, the clock may be ticking on when you have to replace the entire roof. If such a big investment is not currently on your budget, you can follow these steps to restore them:

Step 1. Check the weather report before you start

The last thing you need while kneeling on your roof is for a downpour to force you to abort the mission.

Step 2. Get the required tools and materials

You’ll need a flat bar, asphalt roofing cement, replacement shingles, and roofing nails.

Step 3. Remove the damaged shingles

Use the flat bar to separate the damaged shingles from the ones around it. If it’s only slightly damaged, lift the loose portion and spread a layer of asphalt roofing cement under it.

Step 4. Remove the nails

Once you cut through the glue holding the shingles together with the flat bar, remove the nails underneath the shingles. You can also use the flat bar to pry them out. If the damaged shingles don’t come off after removing the nails, remove the nails from the row above as well.

Step 5. Slide out the old shingle

Once you pull out the old shingle, slide in the new one. If the old shingle doesn’t slide out, don’t force it. It’s better to call a professional roofer than to cause damage to other areas of your roof.

Step 6. Nail down the shingle

Make sure to specifically use waterproof roofing nails, since these will last longer, even when exposed to the elements. Also, use at least four nails to nail down the new shingle. If you removed the top row of shingles, remember to nail it back as well. Nail the top row into new holes instead of using the old ones.

Step 7. Seal space around the nails

Once you’ve nailed down the shingles, apply sealant around the nails to seal against water leakage.

Step 8. Glue down the bottom of the shingles.

Apply it all along the bottom of the single and press down.

Improve Your Home’s Appearance With Help From Allied Siding & Windows

If you’re a Texas resident and your home roof is damaged, let Allied Siding & Windows help you! As a proud James Hardie® Elite Preferred Contractor, you’ll know you’re working with one of the best siding contractors in the industry. Contact us for more information about our services or stop by one of our showrooms in Austin, Dallas, or Houston!