If your roof is missing shingles or showing signs of damage, your first thought might be, “Can we just replace the bad ones?” And in many cases, the answer is yes—if the original shingles are still being manufactured.
But what happens when they’re not?
At Michaelson Roofing Improvements (MRI), we’ve helped countless homeowners navigate this exact situation. You’d be surprised how often roofing materials are discontinued, and even more surprised at what can go wrong when replacements aren’t properly matched or installed.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re dealing with shingle damage—and why a partial replacement with the wrong materials could cost more in the long run.
Not All Shingles Are Created Equal
Even shingles with the same name or color can have different dimensions, sealant lines, or nailing zones when models change over time. That means:
- They may not line up correctly
- They might not seal properly
- Water could infiltrate beneath the patch
- The roof may no longer meet local building code
This isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a functional one.
Building Codes Require Compatibility
Local codes require that roofing materials function as a unified system. If your replacement shingles don’t align or seal as designed, the roof could fail inspection, void your warranty, or worse—leak during the next storm.
Some insurance companies may try to push a partial repair using “similar” shingles. But similar isn’t good enough when it comes to water resistance, wind rating, and code compliance.
How MRI Handles Discontinued Products
We don’t guess. We document. Our team:
- Identifies the existing shingles by brand, model, and profile
- Contacts the manufacturer to verify availability and compatibility
- Takes detailed photos and measurements of the existing system
- Issues a formal report if the original shingle is discontinued or incompatible
That report can be submitted to insurance to help justify a full replacement—and protect you from being forced into a poor patch job.
Partial Repairs That Don’t Meet Code Can Come Back to Bite You
Here’s what we’ve seen go wrong when unverified materials are installed:
- Leaks develop at the transition line
- Shingles blow off during the next storm
- Warranty claims are denied
- Home inspections fail during resale
- HOA violations are issued
And worst of all, homeowners often have to pay again to fix what wasn’t done right the first time.
The MRI Commitment to Compliance
Every MRI contract includes a simple but powerful clause: We follow local building codes, manufacturer instructions, and HOA standards—in that order.
That means your roof isn’t just good-looking. It’s legal, safe, and built to perform.
Need Help Figuring Out What’s On Your Roof?
Let us inspect it. We’ll identify the materials, check availability, and help you understand your options. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, insurance questions, or an aging roof that’s due for an upgrade, MRI is here to document, advise, and protect your home properly.
Your roof deserves more than guesswork. It deserves expert analysis, code compliance, and long-term performance—done right the first time.