DIY Repair

DIY Replace Missing Shingle Savannah GA | Wind Damage Repair

By Talya Roofing Team2025-02-159 min read

Looking for the quick answer?

Skim the TL;DR list at the top, review the cited statistics in each section, and use the FAQ near the end for fast answers that match Savannah and Coastal Georgia roofing needs.

DIY Repair
Wind Damage
45 min project
9 min read

Replace a Missing Shingle (DIY)

Replace one missing asphalt shingle safely and correctly to restore water protection. Follow Savannah-specific tips for humidity, heat, and storm exposure.

Roof with a missing shingle patch indicating wind damage

TL;DR - Quick Summary

Lift tabs above the missing spot, remove nails, slide in a matching shingle, nail per manufacturer pattern, and seal tabs with asphalt roofing cement. Avoid working during peak heat.

Safety First

  • Use a helper and ladder stabilizers
  • Do not attempt on steep roofs (> 6/12 pitch)
  • Avoid hot shingles; asphalt softens and tears

Tools Needed

  • • Flat bar
  • • Hammer
  • • Utility knife
  • • Measuring tape
  • • Caulk gun

Materials

  • • Matching replacement shingle
  • • Roofing nails
  • • Asphalt roofing cement
Close up view of exposed roof underlayment where a shingle is missing

Step 1: Free the Course

  • Lift tabs above the missing shingle gently with a flat bar
  • Remove the exposed nails holding the course in place
  • Cut remaining tab adhesive if needed

Step 2: Insert Replacement

  • Slide in a matching shingle; align the reveal with surrounding shingles
  • Confirm proper course offset (stagger) matches the pattern
  • Trim if necessary using a sharp utility knife

Step 3: Nail and Seal

  • Nail the shingle per manufacturer pattern (follow printed nail line if present)
  • Re-secure lifted tabs above and seal nail heads
  • Apply small dabs of asphalt cement under tabs to re-bond

Insurance Documentation

Photograph missing area, materials used, installation steps, and final result. Save receipts.

Include a measuring tape in photos to show area size for claims.

When to Call Pros

  • Multiple adjacent shingles missing
  • Creased shingles around the area (likely to fail)
  • Leaks or visible decking damage
In hurricane-prone zones near the coast, professional inspection ensures the full system is sound and code-compliant.

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