When someone gets a new roof, they expect it to look smooth and flat. But sometimes, the shingles look a little bumpy or wavy right after installation. This can be confusing, especially if the roof is brand new.

Some people may think something went wrong, but that's not always true. Wavy shingles are often normal in the beginning. It just takes a little time for them to settle.

For those looking into Coral Gables shingle roofing services, it's helpful to know what causes this and when to worry, so there's no need to panic when waves show up.

Why Do Shingles Look Wavy? Get Coral Gables Shingle Roofing Services

Wavy shingles are very common on new roofs. They may look uneven or slightly raised in places, but that doesn't always mean something is wrong.

There are a few common reasons:

• Shingles need time to flatten out
• Weather changes make them move a little
• The wood under the shingles may be uneven
• The shingles were packed tightly before use

When the sun warms the roof, shingles soften and stick better. This also helps smooth out the waves.

Quick Tip
"Don't worry right away. Wait for some warm days. Most bumps go away on their own."

When to Be a Little Concerned

Even though wavy shingles are often normal at first, some signs may show that there's a bigger issue.

Here are signs to watch for:

• The waviness stays for more than one month
• The roof deck is sagging
• There are water stains inside the house
• The shingles are not nailed correctly

If the waves are still there after a few weeks and the roof looks worse, it's a good idea to call a roofing expert for a check.

What Happens During Installation Matters

A new roof's appearance depends a lot on how and when it was installed. If the shingles were added on a cold or damp day, they may not lie flat at first.

Some key things that affect this:

• Weather on the installation day
• Moisture inside the wooden roof deck
• The way shingles are laid out
• Type of shingles used

Good roofers wait for dry days and follow the instructions from the shingle manufacturer. This also helps keep the roof smooth and long-lasting.

The Hidden Layer That Affects the Look

There is a layer under the shingles that people don't see—called the underlayment. It's also like a soft barrier between the wood and the shingles. If this layer bunches up or gets wet, the shingles may look bumpy on top.

Two common types:

• Felt underlayment (older style)
• Synthetic underlayment (newer and stronger)

If the waves match the underlayment lines, it may need to be fixed. Roofers often check this first when problems appear.

How Long Until the Shingles Flatten Out?

This is a question many people ask. Luckily, most shingles flatten naturally over time. The sun plays a big part in this process.

So, here's a general timeline:

• 1 to 2 weeks if the weather is warm and sunny
• 3 to 4 weeks if it's cloudy or cold

Shingles have glue underneath that sticks better with heat. The warmer the weather, the faster they settle into place.

"Give your shingles some time and sunshine. That's usually all they need."

What Experts Look at If Problems Don't Go Away

If a roof still looks bumpy after a month or two, experts providing Coral Gables shingle roofing services take a closer look. They also check many parts of the roof to find the reason.

Here's what they usually check:

These checks also help find out if the waves are only on the surface, or if there's a deeper issue.

Why It's Best Not to Fix It Too Soon

Some people may want to fix the shingles right away, but that's usually not a good idea. Moving new shingles can also cause damage or even make the problem worse.

Here's why it's better to wait:

• The glue under the shingles hasn't sealed yet
• Moving shingles too early may break them
• Fixing it before it settles could void the warranty

Waiting a few weeks helps avoid these problems. Most roofers suggest letting the roof sit for 30 days before doing anything.

Picking the Right Roofing Company Matters

Not all roofing companies do the job the same way. That's why choosing wisely is important, especially when considering Coral Gables shingle roofing services. The right team also makes sure everything is done carefully.

Good roofing teams:

• Wait for the right weather to install shingles
• Follow all instructions from the manufacturers
• Offer warranties for peace of mind

"Good roofing isn't just about the shingles—it's also about the skill and care behind the work."

Why It Happens More After Re-Roofing

Sometimes, a new roof is installed over an old one. This is called re-roofing. It's faster and less expensive, but it can cause shingles to look wavy.

Here's why:

• The old layer may not be flat
• Heat and time to smooth it all out
• Any soft spots underneath make waves show

That's why roofers should check the wood and clean the surface well before re-roofing. Moreover, this helps make the new shingles look better.

What Happens Next Depends on Time and Care

In most cases, shingles that look wavy at first turn smooth over time. But if the waves stay or get worse, it's a sign to look more closely. The good news is that problems can be fixed if caught early.

Pick a roofing team for Coral Gables shingle roofing services that explains every step clearly. The best teams look at every part of the roof, not just the surface. Builders Luxury Construction focuses on strong roof foundations, expert installation, and top-quality materials because every home deserves a roof that looks good and works even better.