Common Roof Installation Errors That Can Cause Your Roof To Fail Early

Although every roof eventually deteriorates and will need to be replaced, proper roof installation is necessary to avoid premature roof failure in the future. To ensure the installation of your roof is done correctly, it helps to know what roof installation mistakes you should avoid.

Here are some critical errors to watch out for when undertaking roof installation projects.

Using the Wrong Type of Roofing Material

Different roofing materials offer varying levels of protection against the outside elements, hence matching your roofing material to the local climate is crucial to ensure the durability of your roof installation project.

A big mistake that many people often make when choosing a roofing material for their needs is to prioritize financial savings over performance and functionality. Instead of choosing a roofing material that can withstand the vagaries of the local climate, they pick roofing options that offer little protection against the local weather conditions.

The quality of roofing material also matters. Low-priced roofing products that do not provide a warranty on their quality and durability should be avoided too.

Not Having Adequate Roof Slope

The slope of your roof matters because it influences how fast and efficiently rainwater drains away from the roof's surface. Steep-sloped roofs are generally favored in residential building design because it allows for fast drainage of roof runoff, reducing the chance of water penetration through the roof.

That said, many people are often guilty of installing roofs with inadequate slopes. As a result, they usually end up having to deal with roof leaks that threaten to cause extensive water damage to their buildings.

Failing to Ventilate the Roof Properly

Once your roof and ceiling have been installed, the hot air that rises to the attic space on hot days should be allowed to escape from the building. That's where attic or roof ventilation comes into play.

Proper attic ventilation will ensure the fast and efficient release of hot air to the outside environment, allowing you to keep cool and preventing moisture buildup in the attic. This, in turn, reduces the chances of mold growth and roof damage.

Not Installing Roofing Material and Flashing Correctly

Proper installation of your roof-covering material and flashing is essential to make your roof watertight. If your roof shingles, shakes, or tile are not properly installed, leaks resulting in premature roof failure are bound to occur. The same can happen with the installation of the flashing that prevents water penetration around leak-prone areas like chimneys, dormers, vents, and skylights.

The best way to avoid critical roof installation mistakes that lead to premature roof failure is to let a qualified roofer install your roof. Make sure the roofer offers a warranty on their labor or workmanship so you're protected against financial losses from repairs due to poor roof installation work.


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