The 17 Most Common Roofing Mistakes
A new roof is an expensive but important investment for homeowners. A roofing project with sloppy or amateur craftsmanship, on the other hand, can result in greater long-term costs. Let’s review some of the most common roofing mistakes:
Leaving Old Shingles in Place
If there is any damage beneath the shingles, which is common, it will be overlooked, and a new covering will not fix this problem.
Poorly Installed Shingles
The shingles are misaligned if the cutouts on the three-tab shingles are not vertical and/or the butted joints are not on the same horizontal plane.
Wrong Nail Placement
When shingles aren’t properly nailed or there aren’t enough nails, they can fall off. Use at least four nails per shingle on flat roofs, and six nails on steeply pitched roofs.
Nail Size
When you use the wrong nail length, your shingles are more likely to loosen.
Exposed Nails
Exposed nails may cause shingles to shift, reducing the longevity of your roof. To keep the shingle in place, nails should be driven well into the decking.
The Slope of the Roof
The materials used on the roof will affect the slope of your roof. Roll roofing with exposed nails is permitted on lower slopes, while shingles and tiles are permitted on higher pitches.
Low-cost Materials
Using low-cost materials on your roof will considerably increase the likelihood of future costly repairs.
Incorrect Flashing Installation
Incorrect flashing exposes the sealants and other components to the elements, shortening their lifespan.
Have a Flashing Installed
Getting a Flashing installed is a vital step in the roof replacement process because it creates a barrier to keep water out.
No Roof Underlayment
Roofing underlayment creates a water-resistant or waterproof barrier on which to build the rest of your roof. This crucial layer protects your home and roof while also extending the life of your roof.
Observing Roofing Instructions
Ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions results in poor installation and an increased risk of damage.
Poor Attic Ventilation
It’s critical to ensure that air can escape from attics and ceilings when laying down shingles for a roof.
Drip Edge
A common roofing issue is the failure to add drip margins. While not having a drip edge may save money now, the risk of injury is not worth it.
Roof Inspection
A qualified roofer will thoroughly inspect your roof before making any repairs.
Hiring the Wrong Contractor
A reputable roofing company will: provide evidence of its certifications and demonstrate that they have the necessary expertise to complete the job.
There is No Workmanship Warranty
The roofing contractor you select must stand behind his or her work. This is supported by a warranty.
Roofing Permit
A roofing permit guarantees that your roof is both safe and in compliance with local building codes. Make sure to use a licensed, insured, and bonded roofer.
We Can Help!
Fast Roofing NW’s expert roofing staff can assist you in getting the assistance you need to preserve what matters most in your life. All of your siding repair, replacement, and installation needs can be met by us. Contact us today for a free estimate.