Tab shingles are individual roofing shingles that have cutouts or “tabs,” which give them their distinctive look, but these cutouts can make them more vulnerable to wind uplift. Wind uplift happens when strong winds get underneath the edges or tabs of shingles, creating pressure that can lift or peel the shingles away from the roof. This is especially common with older shingles where the adhesive strip that bonds tabs together has failed or with poor installation where nails aren’t placed correctly or enough of them aren’t used. Over time, exposure to sun and weather also weakens the shingles and adhesive, making it easier for wind to catch and peel a tab up. Simple diagnostics include looking for shingles that are loose, raised, or missing, and checking if any tabs appear curled or have missing granules, which means the shingles are aging or damaged.
If you want to do a safe DIY check, inspect your roof from the ground or a sturdy ladder without stepping on the shingles to see if tabs are lifting or missing. You can also gently press on shingles to see if they feel loose or if any nails pop out. However, remember that climbing on the roof carries risks, so don’t attempt any repairs yourself if you’re unsure or the roof is steep. When you notice signs of wind uplift or damaged tabs, it’s a good idea to call a professional roofer who can evaluate the extent of damage and suggest repairs or replacement. When you contact a contractor, ask “How many nails per shingle will you use to ensure resistance to wind uplift?" and “Do you offer any warranties covering wind damage on tab shingles?” This will give you insight into the job quality and the protection you can expect.