Do I repair or replace my asphalt shingles in DFW?

So, you’re looking up at your roof and notice some asphalt shingles are missing. Not great. Now you’re wondering—do I need to get the whole thing replaced, or can I just patch it up? The answer depends on a few key things, like how bad the damage is, how old your roof is, and whether you’re already dealing with leaks. 

Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know what to do next. 

How Bad Is It? 

Missing shingles aren’t just a cosmetic issue—they leave your roof exposed to rain, wind, and sun damage. If left alone, this can lead to leaks, mold, and expensive repairs down the road. 

Common Reasons Shingles Go Missing in DFW 

1. Crazy Texas Weather: Strong winds, hail, and storms can rip shingles right off. 
2. Old Age: If your roof is over 20 years old, shingles can become brittle and start breaking off. 
3. Bad Installation: If your roof wasn’t installed properly, shingles might not have been secured well, making them more likely to fall off. 
4. Trees & Debris: If tree branches rub against your roof, they can loosen or damage shingles over time. 

When a Roof Repair Is Enough 

If the damage is minor, there’s a good chance a repair will do the trick. Here’s when you can probably get away with just replacing a few shingles: 

Only a few shingles are missing or damaged. If most of your roof is still in good shape, replacing a handful of shingles should fix the issue. 

Your roof is still fairly new. If your roof is less than 10–15 years old, it likely has plenty of life left, so repairing it makes more sense than replacing it. 

No leaks (yet). If water hasn’t started making its way into your home, a repair can stop further damage before it starts. 

Storm damage that’s covered by insurance. If the missing shingles are from a recent storm, your homeowners insurance might cover the repair costs. Always worth checking! 

When It’s Time for a Full Roof Replacement 

Sometimes, patching up your roof just won’t cut it. Here’s when a full replacement is probably the better option: 

Lots of shingles are missing or damaged. If large sections of your roof are bald or look rough, repairs might not be enough to restore its durability. 

Your roof is pushing 20+ years old. At that point, missing shingles are a sign of bigger issues, and it’s better to invest in a new roof rather than keep patching things up. 

You’ve had to fix your roof multiple times already. If you keep dealing with the same problem, those repair costs add up fast. A new roof can save you money in the long run. 

Leaks, water stains, or mold. If water has already made its way inside, just replacing shingles won’t fix the underlying damage. You’ll need a more extensive repair—or a full replacement. 

So, What Should You Do? 

If you’re unsure whether you need a repair or a full replacement, the best move is to call a local roofing company for an inspection. Most offer free estimates, so you’ll get a professional opinion without committing to anything. 

The Pros & Cons of Each Option 

Repairing Your Roof: 

• Cheaper upfront 
• Fast and easy fix 
• Extends the life of your existing roof 
• 
  

Replacing Your Roof: 

• Long-term solution 
• Avoids constant repairs 
• Boosts energy efficiency and curb appeal 

Final Thoughts 

If you have a few missing shingles, don’t ignore them! Small issues can turn into expensive problems if you wait too long. If the damage is minor and your roof is still in good shape, a repair should do the job. But if your roof is getting old or you’re dealing with widespread damage, a replacement might be the smarter investment. 

Not sure what your roof needs? Get it checked out by a professional. The sooner you deal with it, the better (and cheaper) it’ll be. 

Need help? Give the best roofing contractors in Dallas, TX - MyRoofersTX, a call today for a free inspection and estimate.