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Why Shingles Aren’t Lying Flat

Posted on January 26, 2025

Estimated Reading Time : 6 Min.

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Why Shingles Aren’t Lying Flat

If your roof shingles are curling or lifting up in the wind, you’re dealing with more than just a visual issue — it’s a sign that there’s potential damage that needs attention. When left unchecked, lifted shingles can weaken your roofing system and lead to expensive water damage. Whether you’re doing a routine inspection or just noticing the problem, understanding why it happens and how to fix it is essential to keeping your home protected.

In this blog post, we aim to help you understand why your roofing shingles are not lying flat and what you can do about it.

Why Is It Important To Have Shingles Lie Flat?

Having flat shingles is essential for protecting your home from rain, snow, and wind. They help to create a strong barrier that prevents leaks and moisture damage. But when they start to curl, buckle, or lift, they become less effective and leave your home vulnerable. Over time, this can lead to expensive repairs and even safety risks. Keeping your shingles flat is key to maintaining both the look and durability of your roof.

Signs Your Shingles Are Not Lying Flat

Here’s a brief rundown of signs that indicate your shingles aren’t lying flat. 

1. Curling Edges

Curling edges of shingles

Shingles with edges curling upward or downward are a clear sign they’re not flat.

2. Buckling or Warping

Buckling shingles

If shingles are visibly buckled or warped, this suggests improper installation or underlying issues.

3. Uneven Surface

A wavy or bumpy roof surface shows that the shingles aren’t properly aligned.

4. Gaps Between Shingles 

Gaps between shingles

Spaces between shingles can let moisture in, signaling they’re not lying flat.

5. Loose or Flapping Shingles

Shingles that feel loose or flap in the wind aren’t securely attached and are unlikely to lie flat.

6. Granule Loss

Excess granules in gutters or downspouts may indicate aging shingles that aren’t lying flat anymore.

7. Visible Underlayment

If you can see the underlayment through the shingles, it suggests that there isn’t enough coverage, and the shingles have started to shift.

Common Reasons Why Shingles Won’t Lie Flat

Many factors can make shingles curl or lift. To get a better idea, let’s go through the common causes one by one:

1. Poor Installation

One of the most common reasons shingles don’t lie flat is improper installation. Misaligned shingles, incorrect nail placement, or not enough overlap can leave the shingles vulnerable to curling or lifting. For instance, if not enough nails are used, or they are placed along the nailing strip incorrectly, the shingles may shift over time, weakening the roof’s overall structure.

2. Poor Quality Materials

Even if they’re installed correctly, low-quality materials can cause problems. Poorly manufactured shingles or substandard underlayment may warp, buckle, or curl, preventing a smooth, even roof surface. The durability of shingles plays a crucial role in how well they resist environmental stressors.

3. Environmental Factors

Weather conditions have a significant impact on how well shingles perform. Strong winds can lift loose shingles, while hail and prolonged sun exposure accelerate wear and tear. Temperature changes also affect the roof, with cold weather causing shingles to become stiff and brittle, while excessive heat can soften and distort them.

4. Debris Underneath Shingles

Sometimes, issues arise from small oversights during installation. Nails, dust, or other debris left beneath shingles can create tiny gaps, preventing proper adhesion. Over time, these gaps can allow moisture to seep in, worsening the problem.

5. Multiple Layers of Roofing Material

In some cases, new shingles are installed over existing ones, which can create an uneven surface. Instead of lying flat, the added layers can cause buckling or sagging, making it difficult for the new shingles to seal properly.

6. Aging Shingles

Even the best-installed shingles will eventually show signs of wear. As they age, shingles lose flexibility, making them more prone to curling or warping. Long-term exposure to the elements further weakens them, reducing their ability to stay flat.

7. Improper Ventilation

Poor attic ventilation can speed up the aging process. As heat and moisture push up against the surface of the roof without enough ventilation, this heat will cause shingles to curl up. Proper airflow is crucial for maintaining a stable roof structure.

8. Moisture Damage

Beyond attic ventilation, moisture from leaks or poor drainage can also cause problems. If water becomes trapped beneath shingles, it can lead to swelling and buckling, weakening the roof over time. Excess moisture may also encourage mold growth, further compromising the roof’s integrity.

9. Inadequate Adhesive

Many modern shingles rely on adhesive strips to bond them together. If these strips don’t activate properly (typically because of cold temperatures or insufficient pressure), shingles may fail to stick, causing them to lift or shift.

10. Improper Shingle Type for Climate

Another issue arises when shingles aren’t suited for local weather conditions. Some materials perform better in high winds, heavy snowfall, or extreme temperatures. Using the wrong type can lead to premature curling or lifting.

11. Lack of Maintenance

Even after a roof is installed, ongoing maintenance is necessary to keep shingles in good condition. Debris, moss, and algae buildup can trap moisture, leading to curling or lifting over time. Regular inspections help prevent these issues from developing.

What Happens When Shingles Don’t Lie Flat?

While you may not think it’s a big deal, there are numerous issues that can stem from having lifting and curled shingles on your roof. Let’s go over the risks they bring:

1. Wind Damage 

Shingles that aren’t sealed properly are more likely to be blown off by strong winds, exposing the roof to more damage and causing higher repair costs.

2. Shortened Roof Life

If shingles don’t lie flat, they are likely to increase the roof’s exposure to moisture, UV rays, and temperature changes, reducing the roof’s lifespan.

3. Pest Entry

Gaps in uneven shingles can allow pests like rodents or insects into your home, potentially damaging the roof and insulation.

4. Inefficient Insulation

Uneven shingles disrupt insulation, causing heat to escape. This forces your heating and cooling system to work harder, raising energy bills.

5. Higher Maintenance Costs

Roofs with uneven shingles often need more repairs and inspections, leading to increased maintenance expenses.

6. Reduced Home Value

An uneven roof can make your home less attractive to buyers, signaling potential issues and possibly lowering your property’s value.

How To Fix Shingles That Aren’t Lying Flat

If your shingles aren’t lying flat across the roof, don’t worry. Here are some ways on how to get shingles to lie flat​:

1. Monitor and Wait for Sealing

One common reason shingles don’t lie flat is that they haven’t sealed yet. Asphalt shingles need time and warmth to bond with the roof deck. In warmer weather, they may naturally flatten out and adhere better to the surface. 

It’s helpful to monitor the shingles for a few weeks, especially during warmer temperatures, to see if they settle on their own.

2. Fix Installation Issues

Improper installation, such as incorrect nailing or misaligning shingles, can cause uneven shingles. In this case, it’s important to have a professional roofer inspect the installation and make any necessary adjustments to secure the shingles properly.

3. Replace Damaged Shingles

Misshapen shingles due to manufacturing defects or poor storage should be replaced. Carefully remove and replace these shingles with ones that match in size and color in order to improve both the function and appearance of your roof.

4. Use Roofing Sealant

For curled or lifted shingles, roof sealant can help restore them to their original position. Clean the area, apply sealant beneath the lifted section, press it down, and place a weight on top to ensure it sticks while it dries. This method can fix minor curling without the need for a full replacement.

5. Re-Nail the Shingles

Shingles need to be nailed in place according to manufacturer specifications to avoid issues like curling or lifting. If nails are placed too high or low, the shingles won’t lie flat. Adjusting or re-nailing the shingles based on these guidelines can solve the problem.

6. Get Professional Help

If DIY methods don’t work, it’s a good idea to consult a professional roofer. They can inspect the roof for underlying problems, like structural issues or poor ventilation, which might be affecting the way your shingles are aligned on the roof. 

Call A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing For The Best Roofing Services!

Lifted shingles are not just a cosmetic problem, they signal that your roof needs attention. By identifying the causes, spotting the signs, and acting quickly, you can protect your home and prevent expensive repairs.
Dealing with curling, lifting, or missing shingles? Don’t risk your home’s safety. At A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing, we specialize in roof repairs, shingle replacements, and full installations. With years of experience and a focus on quality, we’ll make sure your roof lasts with our high-quality roofing services. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to learn more!

FAQ

A. Laminated shingles may not lie flat compared to traditional ones. Due to their multi-layer design, they need time and heat from the sun to settle properly, often taking a few days or weeks.

Why Shingles Aren’t Lying Flat