What To Do When New Roof Shingles Not Laying Flat?

When you notice your new roof shingles not laying flat, it can be concerning. After all, a properly installed roof is essential for protecting your home from the elements. Uneven or lifted shingles can jeopardize your roof’s integrity, lead to water damage, and diminish your home’s curb appeal. But what causes shingles not to lay flat, and how can you address the issue?

Below, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know, including:

• Common reasons
• What you can do
• When to reach out to a professional

Your roof plays a critical role in safeguarding your home, so it’s important to address these issues promptly. Read on to understand what’s causing your shingles not to lie flat and the steps you should take for a long-lasting, safe, and attractive roof.

Why Aren’t My New Roof Shingles Laying Flat?

When asphalt shingles are installed, they should lay smooth and create an even surface. If they’re not laying flat, it signals that something may have gone wrong during the installation or preparation process. Here are some of the most common reasons why your roof shingles might not be behaving as they should:

Improper Installation of Shingles

Why Improper Installation Causes Problems

Improper installation is one of the leading causes of situations where new roof shingles not laying flat becomes an issue. Contractors who rush the job or fail to follow manufacturer guidelines can leave you with shingles that warp, wrinkle, or lift.

Some specific problems include:

• Nail Misplacement: If the nails are driven too high, too low, or at the wrong angle, the shingles will not secure evenly to the roof deck.
• Cold Weather Installation: Installing shingles in cold weather may make them too stiff to settle properly, resulting in raised or uneven areas.
• Failure to Align Shingles: Shingles that are not adequately aligned during installation can overlap or leave gaps, creating an unstable surface.

Solutions for Improper Installation

If poor installation is the source of your problem, you may need a roofing contractor to redo the work. It’s essential to hire a trusted and experienced roofer who will fix the errors and ensure the job is done correctly this time around.

Warping or Curling in Roof Shingles

What Causes Warping or Curling?

Roof shingles that warp or curl are often a result of:

• High Moisture Levels: Excessive moisture in the attic or roof deck can cause shingles to absorb water and lift.
• Old Shingle Layers: If a new roof is installed over old shingles, the underlying materials can create uneven surfaces and lead to warping.
• Extreme Weather: Both prolonged heat exposure and repeated freeze-thaw cycles can cause shingles to lose their flatness over time.

How to Address Warping or Curling

Here are a few ways you can prevent and fix warping or curling:

1. Ensure proper attic ventilation to reduce moisture buildup.
2. Replace any underlying layers of old or damaged materials before installing new shingles.
3. Monitor your roof regularly to identify and address weather-related damage early.

Uneven Roof Surface or Structural Issues

The Impact of an Uneven Roof Deck

An uneven roof surface can prevent shingles from properly adhering to your roof. This is often caused by a defective or poorly installed roof deck. If the decking under your roof is warped, rotted, or uneven, shingles won’t lie flat, leading to visible inconsistencies.

Identifying and Fixing Structural Issues

If you suspect that your roof deck is the culprit, a professional roofer can evaluate the structure and recommend necessary repairs. This might involve replacing damaged wood or re-securing loose elements.

Patience During The Settling Period

❓ Do Shingles “Lay Flat” Immediately?

Sometimes, new roof shingles appear uneven right after installation, but this can be temporary. Factors like adhesive strips heating and bonding (a process called “thermal sealing”) can take some time, particularly if the weather is cool.

⏰ How Long Should You Wait?

If the shingles haven’t fully adhered yet, wait for a few warm, sunny days to allow the heat to activate the adhesive. Generally, shingles should settle within 1-2 weeks during spring or summer installations. If issues persist, it’s time to call in an expert.

What to Do If Your New Shingles Don’t Lay Flat

If you’re facing the issue of new roof shingles not laying flat, here are the steps to take to tackle the problem:

🔍 Inspect the Problem Area

Start by visually inspecting your roof from a safe vantage point. Look for signs such as:

• Lifted or warped shingles.
• Nails or flashing that are sticking out.
• Uneven surfaces in specific roof sections.

📋 Document the Issue

If the roof is new and under warranty, take detailed photos and make notes about the problem. This documentation will be helpful when reaching out to your contractor or manufacturer.

✅ Check Warranty Details

Many roofing materials come with warranties that cover manufacturing defects or improper installation. Familiarize yourself with the specific terms and conditions of your warranty.

📞 Contact Your Roofer

Reach out to the contractor who installed the roof to inform them about the issue. Reputable roofing companies will often provide follow-up services to resolve installation issues without additional cost.

🤔 Consider a Second Opinion

If you are not satisfied with the response from your original roofer, have a trusted roofing professional inspect the roof. An experienced second opinion can validate the issue and provide recommendations for resolving it.

🗓️ Schedule Repairs

Once you’ve identified the root cause, schedule the necessary repairs or adjustments promptly to prevent further damage or complications.

Taking these steps ensures that your roof issue is addressed effectively without compromising its longevity.

How to Prevent Future Issues with Roof Shingles

To avoid running into problems like new roof shingles not laying flat in the future, consider these proactive measures:

• Hire Experienced Professionals: A licensed contractor with a strong reputation ensures the job is done right.
• Use Quality Materials: Opt for durable shingles from trusted brands.
• Inspect Regularly: Conduct routine inspections to catch and fix minor issues before they escalate.
• Maintain Ventilation: Ensure your attic is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.

Investing in regular roof care saves you money and ensures that your roof lasts for decades to come.

Trust Us for Your Roofing Needs

When it comes to roofing, trust matters. At First American Roofing & Siding, we pride ourselves on providing expert service, high-quality materials, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do. Whether you need a new roof, repairs, or advice on why your roof shingles aren’t lying flat, you can rely on our skilled and experienced team.

We’re here to ensure your roof is as durable and reliable as your home deserves. Don’t leave your roof to chance; choose the professionals who care. Contact us today to see why so many homeowners trust us with their roofing projects.