Loose, curled, or missing shingles should never be ignored.  Any form of roof damage means the protective covering over your home has been compromised and could let in moisture, insects, or rodents.  At times a missing or loose shingle is something than the average homeowner can repair, but for the most part roof problems should be left to professional roofing contractors.  One shingle problem could hide something bigger; only an inspection by an experienced pro can tell you for sure.

If you do intend to attempt a shingle repair yourself, read this article for step-by-step instructions, which includes a list of tools and materials you'll need to assemble before climbing up on your roof.

If you're unsure about whether to tackle repairs yourself, the article also has some good information on when to call in a professional roofer.  We'd also like to add some cautions of our own, because working on a roof without the proper equipment can present some safety issues.  Never try to go up on a roof when it's slippery or icy.  Windy days can be a challenge as well.  And finally, it's a good idea to enlist the aid of a helper to hold the ladder for you and hand things up if you need them.

Attending to roof damage or shingle problems as soon as p0ossible is an important step in keeping your roof intact and functioning properly.  It's your home's first line of defense against the elements, so you want to keep in in good working order.  If you haven't had your roof inspected in the past few years, you may want to schedule one for spring.  Many roofing companies, such as Quarve Contracting, provide free annual roof inspections.