Did you know that making sure the correct materials are used for a roofing project is vital for it to stand the test of time?
A residential roof installation is important to get right, or there’ll be lots of problems down the line. If the homeowner isn’t a roofing expert, they may not know that the error causing their roofing troubles is something simple.
Are you looking to install a roof? We’ve got all the things to watch out for and how to avoid them in this guide!
Let’s learn all about common errors in residential roof installations and how to avoid them today. Read on!
Contents
1. Incorrect Nail Placement
When nailing shingles down, installers should be sure to use the right size nail and place it higher up than just above the shingle’s top slot. Placing the nail too low on the shingle can cause wind lift of the shingle and can lead to roof leaks.
To avoid this mistake, nails should be driven at least 25mm higher than the slots. Installers should also be sure to use the appropriate type of nails for the installation. Different materials require different nails for optimal installation.
2. Inadequate Ventilation
A roof needs to be “breathed” in order to keep the shingles naturally robust. Without the necessary airflow in the roofing material, condensation can quickly build up. This may result in mold growth, wood rot, and other damages.
The builder should put in the right intake and exhaust vents, soffit vents, and ridge vents to make sure there is enough airflow. The intake vent should be placed low on the roof, and exhaust vents should be placed at the ridge of the roof.
3. Poor Installation of Flashing
To prevent this error, it’s important to use a high-quality sealant that is specially designed for roofing applications and to check the pitch of the flashing before installing.
It’s also important to use the correct flashing material chosen specifically for the climate and slope of the roof.
4. Incorrect Shingle Installation
Begin by selecting the right shingle that’s suited for the roof’s pitch, climate, and load. Every shingle type – asphalt, composite, tile, and metal- should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
When replacing old roofs, installers should avoid placing nails too close to the edge of the shingle and be mindful to never use more than four nails for extra security. The shingles should be sealed and layered for overlapping and should be applied uniformly.
5. Not Asking for Professional Help
Poor craftsmanship is the most common symptom of trying to save money by DIY-ing a roof. Trying to save money when installing new roofs now will not pay off in the long run.
A professional roofing company has the experience to install a superior quality roof, complete with all of the right materials and layouts, and in the time it would take a novice to finish the job, a professional can do it better.
Avoid These Errors in Residential Roof Installations
Overall, roof installations are complex and difficult tasks that require experience and skill. It is important to know the common errors in residential roof installations and how to avoid them in order to ensure a great finished product.
Following the tips outlined in this article can help you and your contractor avoid the top errors and achieve a perfect residential roof installation. Tap into expert advice and get started on your perfect roof today!
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