If you know what to look for, it can be easy to spot a bad roofing job. Flaws may not be immediately apparent from the ground, but there are some common signs of roof damage that you’ll learn about in this article.
A typical roof has a lifespan of 25 years, depending on your area’s weather conditions. Unfortunately, roof replacement is often hampered by poor craftsmanship. This means that not all roofing contractors can install roofing units correctly, leading to problems like leaks that cause structural damage in the future.
Below are some signs that suggest a bad roofing job – familiarize yourself with them to spot any potential problems.
Give Your Roof a Visual Inspection
A visual roof inspection from the ground can identify many bad roofing jobs, usually long after the roof’s installation due to erosion or storm damage.
Due to different aging rates, you may notice uniformity issues in some roof sections. Check for any damaged or missing shingles. Stains on the roof usually indicate water leaks.
If you see water stains on your ceilings or walls, it could signify that your roof is leaking. Check your attic for any water damage, as this is often the first-place leaks will appear. If you think your roof is leaking, contact Infinity to come to take a look.
Structural Damage
If you think you may have structural problems with your roof, it’s best to have an expert inspect it. Ignoring the problem could lead to more severe issues, like premature leakage. Infinity Roofing is a GAF Master Elite Roofing company. Rest assured that our certified roofing contractors can help you prevent these problems.
Uniformity Problems
A roofing system typically wears out evenly on all sides. However, if one side of the roof is exposed to the elements more than the other, this can lead to uneven wear and tear.
It is therefore important to regularly check for damage on all sides of the roof. This includes checking for shingles of the wrong size or color. Different materials age at different rates, so this can lead to more repairs being needed in the future.
Saggy Roofline
A saggy roofline is usually easy to spot. If you notice that the roofline is not straight, this is often an indication of a problem. This can be caused by issues with the framing or the roof decking.
Hardware Issues
When creating a watertight roof, it is important to use new shingles, the appropriate attachment and flashing methods, and the adequately sized nails spaced correctly. Using old or recycled shingles, the wrong sized nails, or incorrect spacing can cause future complications such as leaks or dislodging of shingles.
No Drip Edge
A drip edge protects the area under a roof from water damage. It is installed between the shingles and underlayment and extends to the gutter. If a drip edge is missing, some damage that can result in includes:
- Wood rot
- Dark stains
- Mold growth
- Basement flooding
- Foundation erosion
Missing Underlayment
Underlayment is a waterproof barrier that is often found underneath roof shingles. If your roofing lacks the proper underlayment, it may be more susceptible to water leaks and have a shorter lifespan.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, hiring a qualified and skilled contractor will ensure you have a properly installed roof. Before hiring any contractor, check their paperwork and ask for their licensing and certifications. Be sure to monitor how roof flashing is done, as loose flashing can cause leakages. If you notice a problem with your roofing, take the appropriate action to resolve any issues before the home’s internal structure is damaged.
