3 Shortcuts to Watch Out for During a Roof Replacement
Roof replacement is a large and complex project, and most homeowners don’t know what’s involved with it. Some shady contractors know this as well and are not above taking advantage of the confusion to cut corners. To ensure your new roofing system can provide the superior and lasting weather performance you expect, you should watch out for these shortcuts.
- Installing new shingles over the old roof: This is not exactly a roof replacement, but a roof layover. This method of installation is exactly that: your contractors will just lay new shingles over the old ones. They’ll claim this is easier and more cost-effective to do, but a roof layover can lead to a number of problems later on in your roof’s lifespan. For one thing, you won’t find out whether crucial (but not visible) components like the roof deck actually have issues that need to be repaired before a new roof can be installed.
Not only that the additional weight of the new shingle layer might put unnecessary strain on the roof structure, causing the system to sag. There’s also the issue of roof ventilation. A roof layover allows excess moisture to build up in the attic, encouraging mold and rot in the space. What you should do instead is invest in a complete roof tear-off.
- Not using the right number of nails: Asphalt shingles need the right number of nails so they can adhere properly to the roof. Some shady contractors skimp on the nails when they install a roof, making the shingles more susceptible to blow-offs, which in turn, leave the roof vulnerable to water infiltration.
- Failing to install the ice and water shields properly: Ice and water shields or roof flashing protect the more leak-prone spots of your roof. These may include the area around chimneys, dormers, vent pipes, valleys and skylights. When these are not installed or sealed properly, serious roof leaks become more likely.
Berry Roofing & Solar never takes shortcuts during any project we work on, whether it involves roof replacement or solar tubes installation. We have always aimed for complete client protection and satisfaction, which we achieve by providing unmatched workmanship backed by 25 years of experience. We proudly serve Riverside, CA, and the rest of the Inland Empire and Orange County. Call us today at (951) 900-1309, or fill out this contact form to schedule your consultation.
