Installing a new roof is a big decision and a big investment for any homeowner, so you want to ensure that the job is done correctly the first time. However, this is often a difficult task to gauge as you may not know what signs to look for and there’s a good chance you’ll only replace a roof once, maybe twice in your lifetime. From choosing a new roof to hiring the right roofing company, there are some common roofing mistakes you need to be aware of in order to prevent costly repairs down the road.

1. Delaying Roof Repair

Nobody likes to deal with home repairs but delaying roof repairs or not properly maintaining your roof can lead to roof damage which will worsen over time. When old shingles become loose, they start to fall off causing leaks. Anytime a leak goes unchecked it can lead to major damage, such as structural issues. Water damage may lead to mold which can wreak havoc on your health and finances.

When it comes to roof replacement, a history of proper maintenance will help offset the costs of replacing the roof, as there won’t be any expensive structural issues or water damage to repair. This can make a big difference in helping you stay within budget.

2. Leaving Out Roof Removal Costs

If this is your first roof replacement, you might be unaware that the roofing estimate and the actual costs may vary significantly. There may be unexpected issues that arise such as water damage that can affect the new roofing cost, or even missing charges that your roofing contractor may not have included, such as the fee to remove your old roof. It’s not unheard of for some roofing contractors to only include the cost of the installation without factoring in the cost to remove your old roof which can be significant. Therefore, it’s important that you ask about the cost to have your old roof removed, to avoid any unexpected surprises when you get the final bill.

3. Re-Roofing Over Old Roofing Materials

Laying down new shingles over the old materials is an option for some homeowners, but it’s usually not the best one. It’s too difficult to inspect and makes your roof heavy, leading to more potential problems and risks. Although re-roofing is often cheaper than installing a new roof, installing a new roof will save you money in the long run.

4. Improper Flashing Installation

Improper flashing installation is a common mistake when hiring an inexperienced roofer. Flashing only works when installed properly, and in the case of valley flashing, this means placing it under the shingles.

5. Incorrect Nailing

Common roofing mistakes such as incorrect nailing can lead to shingles shifting and slipping. Most shingles require at least 4 nails per shingle if it’s not a steep grade, so be sure to check that the nailing is done properly.

6. Improper Ventilation

Ventilation is crucial when it comes to preventing moisture buildup, and could cause a new roof to fail, so there needs to be an attic plan to ensure that proper ventilation occurs.

7. Hiring an Inexperienced Roofer

While hiring an inexperienced roofer may seem appealing at first because the cost is likely less, the risks are simply too great. Hiring an inexperienced roofer can lead to costly mistakes, including extensive damage to your home or property. Therefore, it’s crucial that you choose a reputable and established company to perform your roof replacement.

To answer any roofing related questions you might have, contact your trusted local roofing professionals at Armorvue Home Exteriors in Toledo, Ohio. We’ve been in the business of installing high quality roofing materials for decades, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for you.