When you’re installing a shingle roof in your home, it’s best that you let a professional get the job done. That way, you can minimize any mistakes that can be made and keep yourself safe from injuries at the same time. However, when you’re hiring a roofer for the job, it’s also recommended that you’re as thorough as possible in doing so as not every roofer is looking out for your best interest. In fact, some may even cut corners just to make a quick buck out of your roofing needs.
Here are the four different ways bad roofers can cut corners:
- Mismatching Ridge Cap Shingles – Most roofing companies offer 30-year or lifetime warranty coverage on shingles. It makes sense then that ridge caps that they come with also last the same amount of time. However, if your roofer wants to cut corners, they’ll install a 30-year or lifetime roofing system before installing a ridge cap that only has a 20-year lifespan, which is more affordable. This is something that you’ll want to avoid as much as possible as the mismatch could prevent your manufacturer from honoring your warranty.
- Using Second-Grade Shingles – To cut cost, a roofer could use second-grade shingles as a roof replacement material. This is because the factory defects of these shingles make them cheaper, allowing them to save more of the money for themselves in the process. Unfortunately for you, these defects can make your new roof more susceptible to shingle blow-off, leaks and deterioration. With that in mind, be sure to find a reputable roofer like shingle and metal roof installation expert Gulf Coast Roofing to install your new roof.
- Not Using the Right Number of Nails – The right number of nails is needed if you want your new shingles to properly adhere to your roof. However, to cut corners on the roofing project, a less-than-reputable roofing contractor may decide to skimp on nails, reducing the number that will be used. Once this happens, your shingles will be vulnerable to blow off, leaving you more susceptible to leaks in the process.
- Failing to Properly Install Ice and Water Shields – Most building codes state that roofing companies must install an ice and water shield at least 24 inches from the exterior wall. However, for a shield to properly work and give you more protection, they must have an overhang. Unfortunately, some companies will do the bare minimum in order to save money, forcing you to spend more on roofing repairs in the future.
Need someone who can help you replace your roofing system? Simply turn to Gulf Coast Roofing, the leading experts to turn to when it comes to maintaining and installing a flat roof. Not only are we one of the best roofers in the Bay County area thanks to our commitment to give customers quality workmanship and customer services but we are also a GAF Master Elite® Certified roofing contractor! As such, we are trained to handle any and all of your roofing needs. Give us a call at (850) 465-7663 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today!