Roof installation and repair are costly and time-consuming projects that require the expertise of a well-trained roofing contractor. Unfortunately, roofing work can be done poorly, resulting in visible disparity and even dangerous structural mistakes.
The most common sign of a bad roofing job is reoccurrence or a previously fixed problem even after critical work has been done. However, there are many other obvious signs that don’t need an expert’s help to spot. Here are some of the most common signs of a bad roofing job.
1. Damaged or missing shingles
Shingles can eventually become damaged or even fall out due to extreme weather. This is a fairly common issue and often needs a simple repair. Nevertheless, broken or missing shingles that display immediately after a roofing job are a sure indicator that the contractor didn’t properly install the new roof. If you discover that your roof shingles fall out easily during a small storm while other roofs remain intact, you probably had a bad roofing job.
2. Reused old flashing materials
Recycling slates and tiles from the roof is generally a good idea and can help prevent your roof from sticking out from all the other roofs in your area. However, reusing flashing on a new project may lead to serious issues, including water leaking into your home through the roof valley, chimneys, or any other weak point. A reliable and competent roofer will always use brand new roofing materials and will not cut corners by trying to reuse old or existing flushing, which is one of the reasons to hire a specialized commercial roofing contractor.
3. Missing drip edges
A drip edge is a metallic sheet installed on your roof to protect the board under the edging. A competent roofer installs a drip edge in the middle of the shingles and the underlayment to ensure that the structural support of your roof remains intact and that you don’t get a leaky roof. If this vital system of the roof is missing, your roof will be prone to rotting, mold growth, flooded basement, staining, or erosion around the foundation.
4. Lack of uniformity
A properly installed roof will wear uniformly along the sides. However, if the roof is poorly installed, you will notice different colored shingles, reused vents, or missing drip corners. In addition, you will spot a difference in how some roof sections compare to others. Inspect your roof frequently to ensure one side isn’t wearing away too fast.
5. Stains on the roof
The presence of dark stains on your roof is another clear sign of a bad roofing job. Although this can slowly happen over time, it often results from a problem with your attic, such as roof leaks. Isolated leaks can be repaired without replacing the whole roof. However, severe damage, such as multiple spots where the shingles’ grainy surface has worn out, indicates a much bigger issue that needs a significant repair job and sometimes a new roof.
Endnote
If you notice any of these signs, it likely means your roof was poorly installed or repaired throughout the job. To avoid ending up with a bad roof installation, find a roofing contractor with a record of doing the right job. This is highly influenced by finding a trusted roofing contractor who is honest and does excellent work.