New Roof Shingles Not Laying Flat? Complete 2025 Diagnosis & Fix Guide for Myrtle Beach Homeowners

New roof shingles may not lay flat due to: (1) Cold weather installation—shingles need 40°F+ to seal; (2) Improper nailing—wrong placement, too few nails, or overdriven; (3) Defective adhesive strips—manufacturing defect; (4) Poor attic ventilation—trapped heat causing premature curling; (5) Improper storage before installation; (6) Wrong underlayment; (7) Structural deck issues; (8) Normal sealing time—most shingles need 2-6 warm days to fully seal.

New asphalt shingles typically take 2-6 warm days (70°F+) to fully seal and lay flat. In Myrtle Beach, this happens within a week during spring/summer. Winter installations may take several weeks. If shingles haven't sealed after 30 days of consistent warm weather, contact your contractor—there may be a defect or installation issue.

Minor lifting in the first few days is normal, especially in cooler weather. However, significant curling, buckling, or lifting that persists for more than 2-4 weeks of warm weather is NOT normal. In Myrtle Beach's hot climate, shingles should seal within 1-2 weeks during summer. Persistent issues indicate a problem requiring professional inspection.

Coverage depends on the cause: MANUFACTURER WARRANTY covers material defects (defective adhesive, manufacturing flaws). WORKMANSHIP WARRANTY covers installation errors (improper nailing, wrong technique). Neither covers storm damage or normal wear. Document with photos, contact your contractor first, then file with the manufacturer if material defects are suspected.

Yes. Lifted or curled shingles allow wind-driven rain to penetrate beneath the shingle layer. In Myrtle Beach with 50+ inches of annual rainfall and frequent storms, this is especially dangerous. Lifted shingles also fail at much lower wind speeds than their rating—critical during hurricane season.

For new roofs under warranty, do NOT attempt DIY repairs—this can void both warranties. Document and contact your contractor. For out-of-warranty roofs with single shingles lifting, you can apply roofing cement under the tab. For widespread issues or any buckling, always hire a licensed professional.

Costs vary: WARRANTY REPAIR (free), MINOR REPAIR ($150-$400), SECTION REPAIR ($400-$1,500), UNDERLAYMENT ISSUES ($1,500-$5,000+). Always pursue warranty claims before paying out of pocket. Get the original contractor to inspect first—they're typically obligated to fix their work within the warranty period.

Steps to take: (1) Document everything with photos; (2) Send formal written complaint via certified mail; (3) Contact SC LLR (licensing board) if contractor is licensed; (4) File BBB complaint; (5) Contact shingle manufacturer for material defects; (6) Get second opinion from another licensed contractor; (7) Consult construction attorney if damage is significant.

Yes. Claims may be denied if damage resulted from installation defects. Insurance inspectors may flag lifted shingles during renewal, leading to higher premiums or non-renewal. Interior damage claims may be reduced for pre-existing roof issues. Address shingle issues promptly and keep repair documentation.

INSTALLATION ERRORS: Visible improper nailing, pattern of lifting along rows, obvious underlayment issues, shingles not aligned. MATERIAL DEFECTS: Random pattern across roof, visible adhesive strip issues, similar problems on neighbors' roofs from same shipment. A professional inspection can definitively identify the cause—important for determining warranty coverage.