Hiring a professional roofer is supposed to ease your mind regarding workmanship quality. Nevertheless, some mistakes are still bound to happen. Here are the top aspects of roof installation and the corresponding installation mistakes to look out for.
1. Inappropriate Material Installed in Relation to the Slope
Different types of roof slopes require certain roofing materials that match. A good roofing contractor should know what products and installation techniques work best for houses with little to no slopes, as well as what works best for residential properties with steep inclines.
2. Drip Edge
There’s a reason drip edges are required by the International Building Codes to be installed with shingle roofs. Improper or lack of drip edge installation can cause the decay of the deck and fascia of your home, which are usually made of wood.
3. Starter Shingles
Starter shingles should be installed under the first row of shingles up until the rake edges because they act as barriers against water that might go into the seams of that first layer. Roofers should ensure that the first layer of shingles is properly adhered as starters also prevent shingle blow-off.
4. Leak Barriers
With the primary concern of your roof being to fend off water and moisture, leak barriers play a crucial role in ensuring that this is carried out. Metal or shingle roofs will benefit from the moisture protection system that leak barriers offer. They should be installed where leaks are most likely to happen, namely the eaves, valleys, rakes and chimneys.
5. Nails
Believe it or not, something as basic as nail placement is a common problem among roof contractors. There should be around four to six nails per shingle and they should be below the self-sealing strips. Improper nailing can puncture your roof and allow water infiltration.
These basic aspects are also applicable to commercial roofing, and these mistakes aren’t exclusive to rookie contractors. Arming yourself with the proper knowledge will allow you to notice the signs of shoddy workmanship when you see it. To prevent these mistakes from happening, only work with qualified roofing contractors who are dedicated to providing outstanding services at every step of the way, from construction down to replacement.
Hinkle Roofing has been in the business of providing quality and trusted roofing services since 1908. Contact us today by filling out our contact form. We serve Calera and Hoover, AL.
