Why are my New Shingles Wavy?

Are your new shingles looking wavy? All roofs, including newly installed ones, have two primary purposes: to make your house look nice and to serve as a barrier between your home and bad weather. If you notice that your old shingles are bumpy, crooked, or lumpy, it might be indicative of a problem. But don't worry just yet.

If your roof shingles are not lying flat, there can be several possible reasons. These would include your roof’s age, the temperature and weather conditions, and the overall roof condition. In some instances, the shingles will fix themselves; however other times it may require repairs.

Why are my New Shingles not Lying Flat?

When shingles are first installed, they are usually not lying completely flat. This is because the adhesive that holds the shingle in place has not yet had a chance to dry and set. The shingles will eventually lie flat as the adhesive dries. If you have recently re-roofed due to hail damage and your shingles were installed during cold weather, they will not lie completely flat until they have been exposed to heat.

New Shingles Waving in Cold Weather is Normal

While a wavy roof may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, it usually isn’t cause for alarm. In most cases, the issue can be resolved without major repairs or will resolve itself over time. However, if you notice that your shingles are significantly damaged or your roof is leaking, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

Benefits of Waiting Until Spring for Your New Roof

If you’re considering a new roof, you might want to wait until the spring. Not only will the weather be better for installation, but your shingles will also have a better chance of lying flat. The warmer temps of spring alleviate the occasional wavy shingles on your new roof. If you can’t wait that long, be sure to work with a reputable roofing contractor who has experience installing roofs in colder weather. By waiting until spring, homeowners won't have to put up with wavy shingles.

Re-Roof in the Spring Unless You're Experiencing Leaks

If you have an older roof that’s starting to show its age or your roof has recently suffered hail damage, it might be time for a re-roof. Spring is the best time of year to install a new roof as the weather is ideal for the installation process. If your roof has been damaged by hail, it’s important to have it inspected to ensure there are no leaks or reasons for immediate repair. If your hail damage is not too severe, roofing experts recommend you hold off on re-roofing until spring.

The Experts at Tacheny are Here to Help

While a wavy roof may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, it usually isn’t cause for alarm. In most cases, the issue will resolve itself over time. However, if you notice that your old shingles are significantly damaged or your roof is leaking, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible. To avoid wavy shingles on your new roof, hold off on your re-roofing project until the warmer months.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to contact the Tacheny team. We would be happy to help!