Nail pops happen when the nails holding shingles to the decking work their way out. As the nail lifts, the shingle above it rises, creating a bubble or bump. From the ground, it may just look like a shingle isn’t sitting flat. But underneath, the nail has already compromised the roof’s waterproof seal.

When the seal breaks, even light rain or wind-driven moisture has a clear path into the layers beneath. What seems cosmetic on the surface is actually a sign your roof’s defense system has been weakened.

It’s easy to think, “It’s just a nail,” but the truth is nail pops can cause damage far beyond what you see.

Once a shingle lifts, rainwater doesn’t need much encouragement. It slides underneath, soaks into the decking, and eventually finds its way into your attic. Left unchecked, this can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and water stains inside your home.

There’s also the risk of wind damage. A popped nail creates a weak point, making it easier for shingles to tear away completely during Georgia’s summer storms. And if the damage spreads, what could have been a simple repair turns into a costly replacement.

Finally, insurance companies may see long-ignored nail pops as “lack of maintenance.” If a claim is filed after damage has already occurred, you risk denial because the problem wasn’t addressed when it was small.

Nail pops don’t just happen randomly. The most common reasons include:

Leaving nail pops alone often leads to much bigger problems:

• Leaks show up indoors as stains on ceilings or walls.
• Mold spreads through attic insulation and drywall.
• Energy bills rise as air escapes through roof gaps.

Repairs get more expensive—a simple fix can snowball into a major replacement.

Noticed shingles lifting or bumps on your roof? Don’t wait until water starts dripping inside. Schedule a free roof inspection today and catch small issues before they turn into costly leaks.