How do you fix shingles that are lifting?
Short answer. If a shingle is lifting but not creased or torn, brush out the grit and hand-seal it with a few dabs of asphalt roofing cement, then press it flat. If it has a crease line from bending in the wind, its nails have pulled loose, or lifting is widespread, replace the shingles or have the roof evaluated, because resealing will not hold.
Why shingles lift
- The factory sealant strip never bonded, often because the roof went on in cool weather or the strips were dusty.
- Nails were driven above the nailing zone, so the shingle is held mostly by adhesive.
- Age hardens the asphalt until the seal lets go.
- A strong storm broke the seal. Once broken, it rarely reseals by itself.
How to hand-seal a lifted shingle
- Pick a mild, dry day. Cold shingles crack when bent and hot ones tear.
- Lift the tab only as far as needed and brush out grit, pollen and pine needles.
- Apply roofing cement in a few spots about the size of a quarter, set back from the edge so it does not ooze out. Many manufacturers describe hand sealing in their installation instructions, so check yours.
- Press the tab down firmly and hold it for a minute.
- Check the nails under the tab; replace any that are loose or sitting high.
When resealing is the wrong fix
Look closely at the tab. A straight crease near the top means it bent in the wind and the fiberglass mat inside is broken; it will leak and blow off again. Widespread lifting after a storm is wind damage that may be covered by insurance, so photograph it before sealing anything. And if tabs are lifting all over an older roof, read signs you need a new roof.