The Consequences of a Poor Roofing Job

It does not serve a homeowner to be penny wise and pound foolish when it comes to installing a new roof. The problems that can arise from a poorly installed roof can seriously affect an owner's pocketbook and even their health.

It is a good idea to inspect your roof (or have a trusted professional) twice a year for potential problems. There are many possible problems that can be caused by a leaky roof. There are just as many reasons why a roof can leak as well.

Weather is the number one culprit of asphalt shingles. The sun and heat can literally bake the shingles right on the roof, aging them prematurely. They will curl and split as a result. Strong winds may pick the edges of shingles which may then allow moisture to eventually find its pathway into the home. Poor installation of shingles and fasteners are another common problem. Many homeowners can trace their leaks to poor and incorrect installation of flashing in valleys and where a roof meets siding. Faulty installation or old rubber boots around vents may lead to problems as well.

These are some of the more common reasons a roof may leak and provide inadequate protection to the house it covers. The consequences of a defective roof can be immense.

Your health may be adversely affected by a leaking roof. Water may get behind drywall, into insulation and possibly pool on flat surfaces such as a top plate. As a result you could have black mold and bacteria growing. You may feel flu like symptoms for weeks and not know why. You may experience respiratory problems and develop allergies. This could go on indefinitely without an owner realizing the correlation between unseen mold and bacteria and a leaky roof. Perhaps an owner may not even realize the roof is leaking.

If the leak is obvious, you could be contacting your home insurer for some repair cash. Your furniture, carpeting, electronics, just about anything a house can contain is fair game to a roof leak. And this does not even begin to cover drywall, paint, insulation and possible structural damage. The hiring of a professional dry Waller, painter, floor or carpet company must be addressed as well.

Speaking of structural damage, you may have to replace some of your roofing sheathing and underlayment if there are signs of rot. This will cost additional funding for a roofing contractor.

Having a poorly shingled roof can also cost you in energy bills. It will cost more to heat and cool your home without proper shingle adhesion and installation. This can add up significantly over time.

These are real and significant problems that can be experienced when your roof is either leaking or shoddily installed. Prevention is the key word to addressing roofing problems. Three key items an owner should keep in mind here are: quality materials, quality contracting, and warranties and guarantees.

Most shingles are warranted by the manufacturers. If they are not, do not even consider purchasing them yourself or having your roofing contractor buy them. A manufacturers warranty can range from 15 years to 50 years. Keep in mind this is for asphalt, not shakes or steel roofing. Different materials usually have different warranties. Make sure you check the warranty and keep it in a safe place. Sometimes you can register yourself online after purchasing shingles for a warranty.

It does not pay off in the long run to purchase cheap products for your roof. Your roof is a big investment in your home and a good quality product can go far for curb eye appeal and will save you costly repairs later. You don't want to have to redo your roof any sooner than you really need or expect to, you might have to if you use cheap shingles.

Lastly, but certainly not least, an experienced and qualified contractor is important. He should be licensed (if needed in your state), insured, and be able to provide references. Many reputable roofing material manufacturers will often invite contractors to seminars for continuing education. They usually cover application and perhaps new fasteners just for example. Inquire if your contractor ever attends such events.

All said and done, you will save in the pocketbook and prevent possible health hazards if you use a good, qualified contractor and quality roofing materials.