New Roof Shingles Not Laying Flat? 4 Causes and Fixes

Have you noticed that your new roof shingles are not laying flat after installation? If so, you’re not alone. While newly installed roof shingles should ideally create a smooth, uniform appearance, there are instances when they may appear uneven, curled, or buckled. This can be more than just a cosmetic concern—it can also signal deeper issues that may compromise the longevity of your roof.

When your roof shingles aren’t laying flat, the cause often comes down to one of the following:

• Installation errors, such as improper alignment or insufficient fastening.
• Moisture problems, which can lead to warping or curling of shingles over time.
• Product defects, where faulty materials fail to perform as expected.

Knowing the reasons behind these issues and how to address them is crucial for ensuring your roof remains durable and effective. This blog will walk you through the common causes of uneven roof shingles, the potential risks of leaving the problem unaddressed, and the best fixes to resolve the issue.

Understanding the Causes of Uneven Roof Shingles

New roof shingles not laying flat often boils down to specific underlying causes. To address the issue properly, you need to understand what’s at play. Here are the most common culprits:

1. Improper Installation

One of the leading causes of uneven shingles is improper installation. When shingles are not correctly positioned or fastened, they can develop uneven edges, bumps, or curling.

• Misalignment of Shingles: If shingles are not aligned properly during installation, they may overlap incorrectly or create gaps. This misalignment may seem minor at first but can quickly become noticeable as the roof settles.
• Insufficient Fastening: Shingles need to be securely attached, typically using nails or staples. If the fastenings are not applied evenly or at the right depth, the shingles may not sit flush against the roof, resulting in an uneven appearance.
• Wrong Weather Conditions During Installation: Roof shingles should be installed under appropriate weather conditions. If they’re installed on a particularly cold or hot day, this can affect the adhesive’s ability to bond properly or cause premature curling.

2. Moisture Issues

Moisture is a silent enemy of roofing systems and can easily cause new roof shingles not to lay flat.

• Moisture Trapped Underneath: If moisture becomes trapped beneath the shingles—usually due to improper underlayment or ventilation—it can warp the shingles over time. This is especially common in areas prone to high humidity or heavy rainfall.
• Existing Roof Deck Problems: A damp or warped roof deck can cause shingles to appear uneven. If the decking beneath the shingles isn’t in good condition, it can impact the appearance and functionality of the shingles above.

3. Product Defects

Defective shingles can also be a problem. While most modern shingles are manufactured to stringent quality standards, occasional defects can occur, especially in large batches. Products that fail to perform as intended will warp, crack, or curl, even when properly installed.

4. Time and Settling

While roof shingles often experience some settling over time, this process can cause temporary unevenness when they are first installed. For example, some shingles may take time to adhere completely to the roof due to weather conditions or adhesive curing times.

How to Fix Roof Shingles That Aren’t Laying Flat

Now that we’ve discussed the causes of shingles not laying flat, it’s time to explore solutions. Below are practical fixes and steps to address uneven roof shingles.

⏰ Allow Time for Settling

Sometimes, the issue may resolve itself. Newly installed roof shingles, particularly asphalt shingles, may need time to settle and adhere properly. Adhesive strips on the shingles typically activate over several weeks with exposure to sunlight and heat. If the problem is minor, monitoring the shingles for a few weeks might be all that’s necessary.

🔨 Fix Fastening Issues

If improper fastening is the issue, you may need to reevaluate the attachment points. A qualified roofing contractor can pull up the affected shingles and reattach them securely. Common fixes include:

• Adding additional nails to properly secure the shingles.
• Ensuring nails are driven below the surface but not so deep as to damage the shingle material.
• Replacing fasteners in the correct locations for better alignment.

🏚️ Repair or Replace Damaged Shingles

Damaged or defective shingles will need to be spot-repaired or replaced entirely.

• If damage is limited to a few shingles, replace them individually while ensuring proper alignment with the surrounding ones.
• For larger issues or defects, consider contacting the manufacturer, especially if your shingles are covered by a warranty.

💧 Address Moisture Problems at the Source

If moisture is the cause, deal with it immediately. Potential solutions include:

• Improving roof ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
• Replacing damaged underlayment to create a watertight barrier under the shingles.
• Repairing or replacing any warped sections of the roof deck.

🔍 Perform a Professional Inspection

When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof. They can identify the root cause of the problem and recommend repairs to ensure all shingles are properly installed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preventing Uneven Shingles

The easiest way to avoid uneven roof shingles in the future is to focus on prevention. Below is a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose Quality Materials: Start off right by selecting high-quality shingles from reputable manufacturers. Look for materials with strong warranties and excellent reviews.
2. Hire Experienced Installers: Always hire a professional, licensed roofing contractor with a proven track record. Expertise can make a significant difference in ensuring your roof is installed properly the first time.
3. Install in Ideal Weather Conditions: Avoid scheduling roof installation during extreme weather conditions, as this can negatively impact adhesive bonding and overall placement quality.
4. Inspect the Roof Deck: Before installation, ensure the roof deck is dry, level, and structurally sound. Address any issues with warping or rotting before proceeding.
5. Use Proper Fastening Techniques: Ensure that nails are secured in the correct locations with the proper depth and spacing. An evenly fastened shingle will lie flat and last longer.
6. Schedule Regular Roof Maintenance: Even a properly installed roof requires periodic maintenance to extend its life. Check periodically for curling shingles, moisture issues, or other signs of damage.

Why Work with Boss Exteriors for Your Roofing Needs?

At Boss Exteriors, your home’s protection and aesthetic appeal are our top priorities. Our team consists of experienced professionals dedicated to delivering high-quality results, ensuring that every shingle is properly installed. We understand how important it is for your roof to not only look great but also function flawlessly, and we approach every project with precision, expertise, and care.

Whether you’re dealing with new roof shingles not laying flat or need an entire roof replacement, we’ve got you covered. From expert installation and repairs to routine inspections, our team will ensure your roof remains durable, safe, and efficient. Contact us today!