Roofing Mistakes

Is it time to hire a Tampa roofing company? If you’re like many people, you might assume that most roofers provide the same level of quality. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Before beginning your Tampa roof replacement project, arm yourself against low-quality workmanship by learning about common roofing mistakes made by underqualified roofers.

Installing New Shingles Over Old Ones

Installing new roofing shingles on top of old ones, also called roof overlay, might seem like a good way to cut back on the time and cost of a new roof. However, there are several problems with this approach.

First, building codes have limitations on how many layers of shingles you can have, and it’s important that your home is up to code. This can also mask damage to underlying structures, leading to mold, rot, and other complications. Plus, your new roofing shingles will not last as long unless the entire roofing system is replaced.

Reusing Old Roofing Materials

Some roofers try to save money by reusing old roofing materials. Sometimes this can include old shingles, but reusing flashing is most common. Flashing helps prevent damage to the roof, chimney, vents, and skylights by redirecting rainwater, so it’s important that this element of the roofing system is replaced along with the rest.

Foregoing the Underlayment

Roofing underlayment provides a weather-resistant, waterproof barrier that helps to prevent water damage and extends the lifespan of your roof. Some roofers skip underlayment installation and instead nail roofing shingles directly on the roof deck boards.

Failing to Use Starter Shingles

After the underlayment is installed, it’s important to install starter shingles along the eaves and rake edges of the roof. This ensures that the shingles are properly sealed and installed evenly. When trying to get the job done too quickly, some roofers skip this step, leading to water intrusion and/or misaligned shingles.

Inadequate Attic Ventilation

Your attic should be well-ventilated to ensure that your new roofing system lasts. Without proper ventilation, heat build-up will damage your roof and can also destroy your attic’s insulation. This leads to rising energy costs as well as premature roof decking failure.

More Common Roofing Mistakes to Avoid

The above are some of the most common and detrimental roofing mistakes to watch out for, but this is by no means a comprehensive list. Here are additional hazards to avoid if you want your roof to last and look its best:

• Mismatched Roofing Shingles
• Incorrect Nail Length & Placement
• Poor Shingle Placement
• Not Installing a Drip Edge
• Improperly Installed Flashing

Find a Trusted Roofing Contractor in Tampa

The only thing more stressful than a damaged roof is hiring the wrong roofing contractor. When you need reliable Tampa roof installation professionals that never cut corners, turn to Dynasty Building Solutions. 

We have a decade of experience, are GAF Master Elite contractors, and have a perfect, 5-star rating with Google. Find out more about our residential roofing or commercial roofing services today, and get a free roofing quote!