Attention Homeowners! New Roof? Make Sure It's Done Right!

Getting a new roof installed is a big investment, and you expect it to be done right the first time. But let’s face it—not all roofers are created equal. Poor workmanship can lead to leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs down the line. So, how do you know if your new roof was installed properly or if corners were cut?

Here’s a guide to help you spot the red flags of poor roofing workmanship before it becomes a bigger problem.

1. Uneven or Misaligned Shingles

One of the easiest ways to spot poor workmanship is by looking at the shingles. They should be evenly aligned, with straight lines and consistent spacing. If you notice wavy lines, uneven edges, or gaps between shingles, that’s a sign the roofer didn’t take the time to install them properly.

What to Look For:

• Shingles that don’t line up with the roof’s edges.
• Gaps or overlaps between shingles.
• Exposed nail heads, which can lead to leaks.

Pro Tip: Stand back and view your roof from the street to get a better perspective on the alignment.

2. Poor Flashing Installation

Flashing is the metal material used to seal and protect areas where the roof meets other structures, like chimneys, vents, and skylights. Poorly installed flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks.

Signs of Poor Flashing:

• Gaps or loose flashing around chimneys and vents.
• Flashing that’s not sealed properly with caulk or roofing cement.
• Missing flashing in critical areas, like valleys or roof edges.

Why It Matters: Flashing is your roof’s first line of defense against water intrusion. If it’s not installed correctly, you’re almost guaranteed to have leaks.

3. Inadequate Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining the health of your roof and your home. Without it, heat and moisture can build up in the attic, leading to mold, rot, and premature roof failure.

What to Check:

• Are there enough vents for the size of your roof?
• Are the vents installed in the right locations (e.g., ridge vents, soffit vents)?
• Is there any sign of moisture buildup in the attic, like condensation or mold?

Pro Tip: A well-ventilated roof will help regulate your home’s temperature and extend the life of your shingles.

4. Missing or Improperly Installed Drip Edge

The drip edge is a metal strip installed along the edges of your roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. It’s a small detail, but it plays a big role in preventing water damage.

Signs of a Problem:

• No drip edge installed at all (this is more common than you’d think).
• Drip edge that’s bent, loose, or improperly aligned.
• Water stains or rot on the fascia board, indicating water isn’t being directed properly.

5. Messy or Incomplete Cleanup

A professional roofer should leave your property as clean as they found it. If you’re finding nails, shingles, or other debris in your yard, that’s a sign of carelessness.

What to Watch For:

• Roofing nails in your driveway or lawn (hello, flat tires!).
• Leftover materials or trash on your property.
• Damage to landscaping or other parts of your home caused by the roofing crew.

Pro Tip: A magnetic nail sweeper is a standard tool for professional roofers—if they didn’t use one, that’s a red flag.

6. Water Pooling or Poor Drainage

If your roof isn’t draining properly, it’s only a matter of time before you have problems. Water pooling on a flat roof or running off in the wrong places on a sloped roof can lead to leaks, rot, and structural damage.

What to Look For:

• Standing water on flat roofs.
• Gutters that overflow or don’t drain properly.
• Water stains on walls or ceilings inside your home.

7. Lack of Attention to Detail

Sometimes, poor workmanship isn’t about one glaring issue—it’s about a general lack of attention to detail. This can include things like:

• Crooked ridge caps.
• Inconsistent nail patterns.
• Shingles that don’t match in color or texture.

Why It Matters: These small details might not seem like a big deal, but they can indicate a lack of professionalism and care that could lead to bigger problems down the road.

8. No Documentation or Warranty

A reputable roofer should provide you with detailed documentation of the work they performed, including:

• A written warranty for both materials and labor.
• Photos of the roof before, during, and after installation.
• A detailed invoice or receipt.

If your roofer didn’t provide this information, it’s harder to hold them accountable if something goes wrong.

What to Do If You Spot Poor Workmanship

If you’ve noticed any of these red flags, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either. Here’s what to do:

1. Document the Issues
   Take photos of any problems you see and make a list of your concerns. This will help you communicate clearly with the roofer or a third-party inspector.

2. Contact the Roofer
   Reach out to the company that installed your roof and give them a chance to address the issues. A reputable roofer should be willing to fix their mistakes.

3. Get a Second Opinion
   If you’re not satisfied with the roofer’s response, consider hiring a professional roof inspector to assess the situation. They can provide an unbiased evaluation and recommend next steps.

4. Know Your Rights
   If the roofer refuses to fix the problems, you may need to take legal action or file a complaint with your local licensing board or the Better Business Bureau.

Final Thoughts

A new roof is a big investment, and you deserve to get what you paid for. By knowing how to spot poor workmanship, you can catch problems early and ensure your roof is built to last. And remember, the best way to avoid these issues is to hire a reputable, experienced roofer in the first place.

At MARASUN, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch workmanship and exceptional customer service. If you’re concerned about the quality of your roof or just want a second opinion, give us a call. We’re here to help you protect your home and your investment.