Asphalt shingle field

Normal function

Shingles shed rain and protect the underlayment and deck from UV, wind, and weather. Granules help protect asphalt from UV exposure.

What a homeowner may notice

• Missing, slipped, cracked, curled, buckled, or exposed fasteners.
• Bare or unusually thin patches, excessive granules in gutters, or tabs with broken seal strips.
• Dark stains alone may be cosmetic algae; moss, debris, and trapped moisture are more concerning.
• Wind creases, lifted corners, or storm debris impact marks.

Professional inspection

View all roof planes from the ground first. From a safe close vantage point, compare shingle alignment, seal strips, nail lines, edges, valleys, and granule coverage. Check attic/deck evidence before assuming the visible shingle is the leak source.

Repair or replacement path

A localized patch can work when the surrounding shingles remain flexible and a compatible match is available. Widespread brittleness, repeated failures, end-of-life wear, or poor material match may justify a roof-plane or full replacement.

Typical materials and equipment

Matching shingles, compatible underlayment or leak barrier, approved roofing nails, roofing cement only where allowed, pry bar, hook blade, chalk line, and disposal bags.

When to act

Repair promptly when shingles are missing or lifted; replacement planning becomes more relevant when damage is widespread or the roof is near expected service life.

What moves the price

Age and brittleness, matching availability, roof pitch, number of planes, tear-off layers, decking, chimney/skylights, access, disposal, ventilation, warranty, and weather.