If a contractor rushed through your roof’s installation and created errors along the way, the result of poor workmanship will cause issues over the lifespan of your roof. A lack of attention to detail during your roof’s installation will cost you in repairs and the need to replace your roof sooner. Without the protection of a reliable roof, your home is more vulnerable to damage from harsh storms, high winds, and more.
Let’s dive into the signs your existing roof wasn’t installed correctly and discover how to safeguard it from happening again.
How to Know if Your Current Roof Was Not Installed Properly
1. Are your shingles out of alignment?
When a roof is installed correctly, its shingles line up with each other. If they aren’t aligned and look sloppy, they won’t be able to deliver the protection they were designed to. Gaps between misaligned shingles allow costly moisture intrusion to invade your roofing system. This causes it to age quicker, and you’ll need to replace it sooner than you should have if it was installed correctly.
2. Do you have missing shingles?
Your roof’s shingles are an essential component in your home’s protective layer. When roof shingles are missing, your home is at risk of leaks. Missing shingles may be the result of a subpar roof installation.
3. Is your current roof installed over your previous one?
One of the most fundamental mistakes contractors make when installing a new roof is they leave the old roof in place rather than removing it before replacing it. If your existing roof was installed on top of your previous roof, your new roof will age faster than if your old roof was removed first. This costly mistake is something to avoid in the future so you can enjoy the lifespan a new roof is made to deliver.
4. Was your existing roof installed with wrong nail placement?
Correct nail placement is essential to your roof’s long-term performance. Without the accurate use of nails, your shingles will damage easily during severe weather—particularly high winds. If your shingles are not properly attached, they may look like they are dangling or detached. This is a clear indication that your roof wasn’t installed correctly. Next time you have your roof replaced, look for a contractor who is known for their craftmanship in installation.
5. Is your attic ventilated properly?
Attic ventilation has a lot to do with the health and lifespan of your roof. It should have adequate intake and exhaust vents so air circulates through it with ease. If moisture accumulates in your attic, it can cause costly leaks that produce unwanted damage. Unhealthy mold and mildew may appear, and wood rot may begin to be evident in your attic. Interestingly, when ice dams show up on your roof during the winter, it’s evidence that your attic is lacking proper ventilation. A professional roofer should evaluate your attic’s ventilation system and add appropriate vents where needed. If your home lacks attic ventilation, it’s a sign your current roof wasn’t installed properly.
6. Is your flashing pulling away from your roof?
Flashing is usually made of steel or aluminum. It is the material installed around your chimneys, skylights, and roof vents to keep moisture from getting in. If it is pulling away from your roof, leaks may result. This common problem could be happening due to incorrect flashing installation. When flashing pulls away from the areas where penetrations meet your roof shingles, water damage will continue until you discover and address it. The good news is that when flashing is installed by a reputable roofer (like us!), you can expect these otherwise vulnerable areas to be well protected.
7. Is your roof decking rotting?
When roof decking rots, it can become dangerous. Your roof could collapse and injure you or someone in your home. If your roof was incorrectly installed, roof decking may rot as a result, opening the door to a hazardous situation where your home’s integrity may become compromised.
8. Is your ridge cap installed correctly?
Does your home have a ridge cap? If not, you may want to have one installed during your next roof replacement. If you have a ridge cap but it isn’t working properly, moisture may become trapped in your attic. This causes your roofing’s components to wear out quicker. If the contractor who installed your roof used nails that were too short for the job, your ridge cap may become insecure and faulty. Ridge cap issues may indicate your roof wasn’t installed correctly.
9. Does your roof have a non-uniform appearance?
Properly installed roofing has a uniform look to it. Step back from your property and take an objective look at your roof. If there are sections that don’t look like the rest, that’s an indication your existing structure wasn’t installed properly.
10. Do you have improper shingle overhang?
Your roof shingles should overhang its edge adequately. Without proper installation and ample roof overhang, moisture can infiltrate your roof decking—causing rot, mold, deterioration, and the premature aging of your current roof.
Get a Gorgeous New Roof for Your Wichita Area Home Installed by Our Team of Experts
Without proper installation of your roofing components, your home is at risk of costly leaks. There are two vital ingredients necessary for the high-performance and long-term durability you desire in a roof: premium materials and expert installation. Don’t settle for subpar roofing installation. Get the detailed installation you deserve from our experienced crew at Keeter Roofing and Remodeling.
Our dedication to craftsmanship, customer service, good standing with the BBB, and our adherence to the latest industry standards and technology all contribute to our status as an Owens Corning Preferred Roofing Contractor. Likewise, the training and certification programs we completed by CertainTeed ensure we are well equipped in shingle installation including proper techniques, safety protocols, and product knowledge. Learn more about how our roofing services can deliver the premium roof installation you deserve.
