The short answer
Check the Ground First
After a storm, the missing shingle often lands close to your home. Walk around the perimeter of your house and scan the lawn, flower beds, and driveway. A dark asphalt shingle can blend into mulch or wet grass, so look carefully. Check under bushes, near fences, and along the base of walls.
Also inspect your gutters and downspouts. Shingles can break into pieces and get carried by rainwater. Look for debris caught in gutter guards or stuck at the downspout elbow. If you find a piece, compare it to the shingles on your roof to confirm it belongs to your home.
Look at Neighboring Properties
High winds can carry a shingle across your property line. Ask your neighbors if they have seen a shingle in their yard or on their roof. Check shared fences, hedges, and any structures like sheds or garages. A shingle might also land on a porch roof or a carport.
Use binoculars to scan nearby rooftops from the ground. Shingles can slide off one roof and land on another. If you live in Daytona Beach, the humid subtropical climate can make shingles brittle, so they may break into smaller pieces. Look for any dark, rectangular objects that seem out of place.
- Walk the perimeter of your property
- Inspect gutters and downspouts
- Check under bushes and shrubs
- Look on fences and sheds
- Use binoculars to scan neighbor roofs
- Ask neighbors if they found a shingle
Inspect Your Roof Safely
If you cannot find the shingle on the ground, you need to check your roof for the missing spot. Do not climb onto the roof yourself if it is steep, wet, or high. Instead, use binoculars from the ground or from a window. Look for a lighter-colored area where the shingle used to be, often with exposed nails.
If you have a drone, you can use it to get a closer view. Otherwise, ask a friend to spot you from a ladder if you must go up. Always prioritize safety. If you see any bare spots, damaged flashing, or lifted shingles, that is a sign you need professional help.
Why the Missing Shingle Matters
A missing shingle exposes your roof deck to rain and moisture. Over time, water can seep into the underlayment and cause rot, mold, and leaks. Even a small gap can let water travel along the roof and damage your attic, insulation, and ceilings. The longer you wait, the more extensive the damage can become.
If the storm was severe, other shingles may be loose or cracked even if they look fine. Check for granules in your gutters, which indicate shingle wear. If you notice any signs of water intrusion inside your home, such as stains or dripping, you likely have a leak that needs immediate attention.
- Exposed nails or bare spots
- Loose or lifted shingles nearby
- Granules in gutters
- Water stains on ceilings
- Damp spots in the attic
- Dripping sounds after rain
When to Call the Pros
If you cannot find the shingle or if you see damage, it is wise to call local water damage pros. They can inspect your roof and attic for hidden moisture. They have the tools to check for leaks and assess the extent of the damage. Early intervention can prevent costly repairs later.
The pros can also help with water damage cleanup if water has already entered your home. They can dry out affected areas and repair drywall or flooring. If you notice a leak, act quickly to minimize damage. For more information, you can explore related services like storm water damage cleanup or water damage inspection.
Talk to someone now
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
What if I find the missing shingle?
If you find the shingle intact, you can try to reattach it with roofing cement and nails, but only if you are comfortable on a ladder. Otherwise, save the shingle and show it to the pros. They can reattach it or replace it during a repair.
How long can a missing shingle go unrepaired?
It depends on the weather and the extent of exposure. In a rainy climate, even a few days can allow water to seep in. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of leaks, rot, and mold. Check your roof soon after a storm and address any gaps promptly.
Will my insurance cover a missing shingle?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Storm damage is often covered, but it depends on your policy and the cause. Check your policy documents and contact your insurance company for details. Take photos of any damage to document your claim.