A Lesson in Improper Roof Nailing
Sliding Shingles and Improper Roof Nailing
Sliding shingles are a serious roofing problem that can lead to expensive roof repairs and severe water damage. When shingles aren’t nailed properly, they can slip down your roof over time. This creates gaps where water can get in. Most homeowners don’t notice sliding shingles until it’s too late. The problem usually starts with poor installation or using the wrong nailing techniques. Westfall Roofing knows how important proper installation is for Central Florida homes. Understanding what causes shingles to slide helps you spot problems early. Proper nailing is the key to keeping your roof secure for years. If you see shingles that look uneven or have moved from their original position, you need professional help right away.
What Are Sliding Shingles?
Sliding shingles happen when individual roof shingles move down the roof slope from where they were originally installed. This movement creates uneven rows and exposes parts of the roof that should stay covered. You might see shingles that look crooked or notice gaps between rows. The problem gets worse over time as gravity pulls the loose shingles further down. Wind, rain, and temperature changes make sliding worse. When shingles slide, they can’t protect your home properly. Water can get under the moved shingles and cause leaks, leading to roof repairs that could have been prevented.
What Do Sliding Shingles Look Like?
- Shingles that appear crooked or uneven compared to the rows around them
- Gaps between shingle rows where the roof deck shows through
- Shingles hanging lower than they should on the roof slope
- Overlapping shingles that don’t line up properly with the pattern
- Exposed nail heads from shingles that have moved away from their original position
- Curled or lifted shingle edges where the wind has caught loose sections
Why Proper Nailing Matters
Asphalt shingle roofing systems, when properly installed, are designed to protect your home. However, when individual shingles aren’t nailed correctly, the efficacy of their protection is at risk. Incorrect nailing can lead to issues such as lifting and missing shingles, roof leaks, and reduced lifespan of the roof.
Common Nailing Mistakes
- High Nailing: Placing nails too high on the shingle can miss the underlying shingle, leaving it susceptible to wind damage.
- Overdriven Nails: Using too much pressure can drive nails through the shingle, increasing the risk of shingle detachment.
- Underdriven Nails: Not driving nails flush with the shingle surface can prevent proper sealing, leading to water infiltration.
- Angled Nailing: Nails driven at an angle can cut into the shingle, weakening its structure and making it prone to tearing.
- Insufficient Nails: Using fewer nails than recommended can compromise the shingle’s durability. prevented.
Best Practices for Shingle Nailing
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the specific nailing instructions provided by the shingle manufacturer.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically have your roof professionally inspected for signs of improper nailing, especially after severe weather events.
- Hire Qualified Professionals: Engage experienced roofing contractors who are familiar with best practices and manufacturer specifications.
Proper shingle nailing is crucial for the longevity and effectiveness of your roof. By understanding and avoiding common mistakes, homeowners can ensure their roofs remain durable and protective for years to come.
Reinforcing Shingles With Owens Corning SureNail® Technology
Owens Corning SureNail Technology gives your shingles extra holding power to prevent future sliding problems. This special technology puts a reinforced strip right where nails go through the shingle. The strip uses woven fabric that grabs onto nails much better than regular shingles. When nails hold better, your shingles stay in place longer.
SureNail Technology helps fix some of the nailing mistakes that cause sliding shingles. The stronger grip means your shingles won’t slide down your roof over time. When Westfall Roofing installs shingles with SureNail Technology, you can trust your roof to handle Central Florida’s toughest winds.
Do You Have Sliding Shingles? Contact Westfall Roofing For the Best Shingle Roofing Solutions in Central Florida
If you think your shingles might be sliding, don’t wait to get help. Westfall Roofing has years of experience fixing sliding shingle problems in Central Florida. Our roofers know how to spot the early signs of improper nailing and can repair the damage before it gets worse. We use proper nailing techniques on every job to prevent future sliding. Getting your roof checked now saves money compared to replacing damaged sections later.
Contact Westfall Roofing today for a professional inspection. We’ll tell you exactly what’s wrong with your roof and how to fix it. Your home deserves the protection that lasts.
