10 Mistakes to Avoid during Roofing Installation

Your roof is a crucial part of your house. Not only does it make up a significant portion of your home, but it also serves as a protective barrier between your family and the outside elements. When your roof works, it effectively performs these duties; however, an improperly installed roof can cause greater damage and require extensive repairs. So, when it’s time to hire a contractor in Lawrenceville for asphalt shingle installation, be sure to hire a reputable, experienced roofer and avoid these 10 costly mistakes.

Covering Old Shingles

An experienced contractor knows to remove damaged shingles and replace them with new ones, rather than cover them up. Covering up old shingles creates pockets where moisture and dirt can collect and deteriorate your roof.

Reusing Old Flashing

Flashing refers to impervious pieces of metal installed to prevent water from entering your roof from joints. Though old flashing may appear to be in quality condition, reusing it can cause more problems down the line since it will deteriorate faster than the roofing around it.

Improper Flashing Installation

In addition to replacing weathered flashing, your contractor should also ensure that it’s installed correctly. Misaligned and insufficiently fastened flashing can allow water to seep into your roof and undermine its integrity.

Inaccurate Fastener Length

It’s vital that your contractor use the correct nails for specific shingles. If your contractor uses nails that are too short, this will result in your shingles loosening; this can lead to shifting and displacement, which will require unnecessary replacement and repair.

Incorrect Nail Positioning

In addition to the proper fastener length, correct nail placement is critical to ensuring your roof’s structural integrity. Your roofer should know to place nails under the topmost layer of shingles to protect them from corrosion.

Incorrect Moisture Protection

Though shingles do an adequate job diverting water off your roof, an added barrier should be installed underneath your shingles. Quality moisture barriers will protect decking from rain and collected water from ice and snow.

Improper Overhang

Roofing overhangs past eaves for a good reason. Without the correct amount of overhang, a roof is susceptible to wind damage, e.g., strong winds getting underneath the edges of shingles and ripping them out in the worst-case scenario.

Inconsistent Slate Coloring

If you decide to install a slate roof, take care to ensure that the coloring is consistent throughout. Slate comes in myriad hues and colors even among products from the same source, so consult with your roofer to determine what works and what doesn’t.

Improper Ventilation

If your roof isn’t vented properly, it’s at risk from damage caused by excess heat and wood warping. Ensure this doesn’t occur by hiring a certified professional roofer who uses proper roofing materials.

Decking Problems

Since decking serves as the foundation for your installation project, it’s one of the most crucial aspects of your home’s structure. Any minor issues can have disastrous results. If you’re not sure your decking is in proper shape, schedule an inspection by a licensed contractor.