Shingle thefts go through the roof across the US, costing lumberyards and suppliers millions

Roof tiles prove to be gold mine for thieves

DALLAS — Crooks nationwide are stealing millions of dollars worth of roofing shingles from lumberyards and building-supply companies.

Previously, thieves would steal shingles from construction sites. Now they’re going as far as to steal several semi-truck loads at a time. In Texas alone, at least $4 million worth was stolen this year.

Investigators believe some thieves are part of an organized operation stockpiling the materials in anticipation of roof-ripping storms that would heighten the demand for their stolen wares. Other thefts may be isolated incidents from people looking to sell the shingles to roofers for a quick buck.

The thefts force companies to spend thousands of dollars on security cameras, lighting and closed-circuit television equipment.