The answer to missing asphalt shingles is that they can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, weather damage, improper installation, or lack of maintenance. Symptoms may include leaks, exposed roof decking, or missing shingle tabs. Solutions can range from simple DIY repairs to full roof replacement, depending on the extent of the damage.
For minor issues like a few missing shingles, homeowners can often perform DIY repairs by replacing the missing shingles. However, for more extensive damage or if the roof is older, it's best to call a professional roofing contractor to inspect the roof and provide recommendations. A professional can assess the overall condition of the roof and determine the best course of action, whether that's patching isolated problem areas or completely re-roofing the home.