DIY Roof Repair: Fixing Blown-Off Shingles

Updated at: 26/05/2025

A fierce storm has passed, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, and your roof isn't looking its best. Missing shingles, flapping in the wind, are a common sight after high winds or hail, leaving your home vulnerable to water damage and further deterioration. The good news is that repairing blown-off shingles is often a manageable DIY project, saving you the considerable expense of professional roofers. This isn't a task to be taken lightly, however; safety is paramount when working at heights. Proper preparation and the right tools are crucial for a successful and safe repair.

Before you start climbing onto your roof, make sure you understand the extent of the damage. This article will provide a detailed, step-by-step guide to effectively and safely repair your roof, covering everything from assessing the damage to securing the final shingle. Let's get started on learning how to fix those blown-off shingles and protect your home.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Roof sealant (wet/dry application)
  • Caulking gun
  • Rag
  • Stepladder (or scaffolding for higher roofs)
  • WD-40 (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always prioritize safety! Wear a safety harness and work with a partner when working at heights. Never work on a roof during inclement weather (rain, snow, high winds).
  • Use appropriate safety equipment: This includes sturdy work boots with good grip, gloves, safety glasses, and a hard hat.
  • Inspect the entire roof for further damage before beginning repairs. A single blown shingle might indicate a larger underlying problem.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Roof Inspection

    • Inspect the roof for damaged shingles. Identify the shingles that have lifted or are damaged.
    Inspect the roof for damaged shingles. Identify the shingles that have lifted or are damaged.
    Roof Inspection

  2. Sealant Preparation

    • Prepare the roof sealant. Puncture the sealant tube using the caulking gun's puncture tool. Be careful to avoid getting sealant on your hands.
    Prepare the roof sealant. Puncture the sealant tube using the caulking gun's puncture tool. Be careful to avoid getting sealant on your hands.
    Sealant Preparation

  3. Shingle Application

    • Lift the blown-off shingle. Apply the roof sealant along the existing tar strip on the underside of the shingle.
    • Press the shingle firmly back down onto the roof, ensuring good adhesion to the sealant and existing tar strip.
    Press the shingle firmly back down onto the roof, ensuring good adhesion to the sealant and existing tar strip.Press the shingle firmly back down onto the roof, ensuring good adhesion to the sealant and existing tar strip.
    Shingle Application

  4. Cleanup and Final Inspection

    • Clean up any excess sealant immediately with a rag. WD-40 can help remove sealant from your hands if needed.
    • Inspect the rest of the roof for any other damaged areas or exposed nails. Apply sealant to these areas as needed.
    Inspect the rest of the roof for any other damaged areas or exposed nails. Apply sealant to these areas as needed.
    Cleanup and Final Inspection

Read more: DIY Roof, Shingle, Fence, and Flashing Repair with Henry Wet Patch 208

Tips

  • Use caution when working on a roof. Use a stepladder for lower roofs; for higher or steeper roofs, consider hiring a professional.
  • Choose a wet/dry roof sealant to ensure it works even if it rains shortly after application.
  • Apply sealant only to the tar strip to avoid making a mess and to prevent excess sealant from showing on the visible part of the shingle.
  • Keep a rag handy to clean up excess sealant immediately.
  • WD-40 can effectively remove roof sealant from your hands.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong type of nails

Reason: Using nails that are too short or not designed for asphalt shingles can lead to the shingles blowing off again easily.
Solution: Use galvanized roofing nails of the correct length, typically 1 inch to 1 1/4 inches, specifically designed for asphalt shingles.

2. Neglecting proper sealant application

Reason: Failing to properly seal the edges and overlaps of the shingles leaves gaps where water can penetrate, leading to further damage.
Solution: Apply roofing cement or sealant along the edges and overlaps of the repaired shingles, ensuring a watertight seal.

FAQs

What kind of tools and materials will I need to repair blown-off shingles?
You'll need a sturdy ladder, safety harness, work gloves, roofing cement, replacement shingles (matching your existing ones), a hammer, utility knife, and possibly a pry bar to loosen stubborn shingles. A bucket and tarp for debris are also helpful.
How do I safely work on my roof?
Never work on a roof alone. Use a sturdy ladder that extends well beyond the roofline. Securely fasten a safety harness to a solid point on the roof. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid working in wet or windy conditions. If you are uncomfortable working at heights, hire a professional.
What if I can't find matching shingles?
Try contacting your local home improvement store and provide them with the shingle's manufacturer and model number (usually found on the existing shingles). If you can't find an exact match, a close color and type might suffice, but consider replacing a larger section for a uniform look.