Whether you have a roof replacement or a new roof construction project, it’s crucial to ensure proper roofing installation to avoid frequent and costly repair problems in the long run. With poor workmanship, your home could be at risk of experiencing roofing issues such as leakage and water damage.
And as such, here are 3 roofing installation mistakes to avoid and look out for to have a long-lasting roofing system.
Incorrect Nail Placement And Usage
To start, the nails and fasteners of the roof should be placed in the right location when installing a new roof to your home to prevent structural issues. For instance, it’s considered a big mistake to place the biggest place the nail where it’s directly exposed to the sun and other harsh weather elements. Ideally, a roof installer should place the nails underneath the shingles’ top layer to avoid corrosion, which may lead to holes, water infiltration, and other roof damages.
In addition, incorrect nail length may reduce the lifespan of your newly installed roof. This is because each type of shingles has a specific nail length and style that fits well with them. So, if you use an incorrect nail type or size, the shingles may loosen up during heavy rain. Strong winds may also cause the roof to shift, further loosening the structure and the possibility of blowing it out. So, make sure that the nails you’ll be using go well into the decking, securely holding the roof in place.
The number of nails to be used is another important consideration, which depends on the area’s weather conditions, the number of shingles, and the grade of the roof. And for instance, tiles and metal shingles may have unique fastening needs installers need to consider. As such, property owners should entrust their roofing installation in Alexandria to reputable roofing companies.
Failing To Replace And Match Old Roofing Materials
Another roofing installation error to avoid is installing new roofing materials without removing the old ones. While some people practice installing new roof shingle material on top of the old ones, the rust and corrosion in old shingles may spread to the new roof, causing serious damage. And more so, the gap between the old and new material may become an area for dirt and moisture collection.
Mismatched shingles are also one of the common mistakes to be mindful of. For instance, perhaps you’re planning to repair or replace your roof’s shingles in a do-it-yourself (DIY) roofing project. However, if you can’t find or wait to order the similar shingles you have currently installed, chances are you may resort to buying a different one. Doing so can result in an uneven patch job that may decrease the value of your home.
Another overlooked error when installing a new roof is neglecting the roofing’s flashing. Flashing serves as an essential component of your roofing system, as it aids in draining, directing, and diverting water from the critical areas of your roof to avoid water leakage. This can then help prevent damage to vents, skylights, and chimneys.
As such, it’s only necessary to see to it that your roof’s flashing is always in good condition. If it’s damaged or perhaps, warped, it may not fulfill its role in your roofing system properly. In addition, if you’re going to replace it, proper installation must be ensured too. If not secured or aligned correctly, it can quickly lead to leakage.
Overlooking Proper Roof Ventilation
A roofing system with poor ventilation tends to trap excessive heat. Moisture build-up will occur when this event happens, causing the deck to rot. And more so, the shingles and the underlayment may sustain damage, leading to leaks during rainy days.
Aside from structural damage, poor roofing ventilation may also cause high electricity bills. The roof allows too much heat to enter the house during summer, prompting the homeowners to use air conditioners all day to keep the home interior cool. While on the other hand, during winter, a poorly ventilated roof allows the heat inside the house to escape. As a result, your heating system is forced to work harder to provide a comfortable warmth inside the home.
When installing a roof, it’s important to insert roof vents, set at the peak of the roof where the air naturally rises in the attic. New roof installation should include roof vents to ensure the escape of warm, moist air to prevent heat accumulation and condensation.
The Bottom Line
Roofing installation is a technical project involving proper techniques and methodology to preserve the lifespan of your home’s roofing system. Whether you need to replace damaged shingles or install a new roof, it’s essential to ensure you’re doing things right.
As such, taking note of the 3 roofing installation mistakes to avoid, as discussed in this article, can send you off to a good start.
