The Importance of Proper Roof Installation: 6 Reasons to Protect Your Investment
Your roof is more than just a layer of shingles or tiles; it’s your first line of defense against the elements and a crucial component of your home’s structural integrity.
While the allure of DIY projects or cost-cutting measures might tempt some homeowners to skimp on professional installation, the importance of proper roof installation cannot be overstated.
Rescue My Roof has been a leader in the roofing industry for over a decade, installing thousands of high-quality roofs across Wisconsin. We know a thing or two when it comes to proper roof installations.
In this article, we’ll use our expertise to delve into why investing in professional installation is essential for the long-term health and durability of your roof. Ultimately, you’ll know the benefits and risks of poor or DIY roof installation.
Why Is Proper Roof Installation Important?
The number one reason a proper roof installation is essential is because a roof is a significant investment. With the amount of money you’ll spend, you deserve a properly installed roof that can protect your home for a lifetime.
However, the importance of proper installation goes deeper than that. Unfortunately, an improperly installed roof can void warranties, deny claims, and more.
Here are some more reasons why a high-quality roof installation is essential.
1. Prevents Costly Repairs
One of the most compelling reasons to prioritize proper roof installation is to avoid costly repairs.
While a roof replacement is costly upfront, a properly installed roof saves money in the long run.
A poorly installed roof is prone to premature deterioration, leaks, and other issues that can escalate into major headaches and expenses. These repair costs are staggering, and this is before considering interior damage costs (like drywall and electrical repair).
By investing in professional – and quality – installation upfront, you can save yourself the hassle and expense of frequent repairs and replacements in the future.
2. Maximizing the Roof’s Lifespan
It’s no secret – you’ll spend a lot of money on your roof. So, it makes sense to want to get as many years as possible out of it.
With a properly installed roof, you’ll reach or get as close as possible to the roofing material’s maximum lifespan. This could be 25, 35, or even 50 years. Imagine it: you could replace your roof and forget it until retirement.
A surefire way to get the most out of your roof’s lifespan is to hire a high-quality, certified roofing contractor to install your roof correctly.
3. Ensures Structural Integrity
Proper roof installation is paramount for maintaining the structural integrity of your home. A professionally installed roof is built to withstand the rigors of weather and time, providing reliable protection against rain, snow, wind, and other environmental factors.
Each component, from the underlayment to the flashing and ventilation system, is meticulously installed to create a seamless barrier against moisture and leaks.
4. Maximizes Energy Efficiency
Proper roof installation goes beyond just keeping water out; it also significantly maximizes energy efficiency.
A well-installed roof ensures proper insulation and ventilation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce heating and cooling costs. By minimizing air leaks and heat transfer, a properly installed roof can lead to substantial energy savings over time.
5. Ensures Manufacturer Warranty Compliance
Many roofing materials come with manufacturer warranties that provide coverage against defects and premature failure. However, these warranties often require proper installation by a certified contractor to remain valid.
If you try to use your warranty, the first thing the manufacturer will look for is if the roof system was installed correctly per the provided instructions. Something as simple as nails not being properly placed is enough for the manufacturer not to honor their warranty.
Hiring a reputable roofing contractor for installation ensures compliance with manufacturer guidelines and preserves your warranty protection for years.
6. Protects Against Denied Insurance Claims
If you have an RCV policy, insurance will pay for a new roof in the event of storm damage. However, they can deny your claim if your roof was improperly installed.
This leaves you with a storm-damaged roof and means you’ve been paying premiums on a policy you can’t use. Even worse, you must pay out of pocket for your replacement.
What Causes An Improperly Installed Roof?
You know the top 6 reasons proper roof installation is essential to your roof, investment, and peace of mind. However, knowing this doesn’t make your roof immune to installation issues.
Here are the main ways a roof is improperly installed:
- Poor/lazy workmanship
- Not following installation instructions
- Inadequate attic ventilation
- Excluding roofing components like ice and water barriers or synthetic felt
- Poor weather conditions during installation
So, how do you avoid improper installation? It all comes down to the roofing contractor you hire. Hiring the cheapest roofing contractor is one of the top causes of improper installation.
Bad contractors cut corners with their materials and installation techniques. In reality, you’re getting a poorly installed roof with low-quality materials, leaving your home at risk for leaks.
Always get multiple estimates, look for reviews, and ask for certifications when hiring a roof contractor to ensure they’re the right fit for your project.
How to Avoid an Improperly Installed Roof
Proper roof installation is an investment in the long-term health, safety, and value of your home. From safeguarding against weather damage to maximizing energy efficiency and preserving warranty protection, the benefits of professional installation are numerous.
By prioritizing quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your roof is built to last and protect your home for years to come.
Here are some tips to getting a high-quality roof that protects your home for a lifetime:
- Get multiple roof estimates
- Never go with the cheapest contractor
- Read reviews
- Ask for an itemized list of roofing materials
- Get a manufacturer-certified contractor
Learn more about finding a high-quality contractor with “10 Qualities to Look For in a Roofing Contractor” and “7 Reasons to Hire A Local Roofing Company.”
Are you looking for a roof replacement in southeastern Wisconsin? Rescue My Roof is a platinum-level certified Atlas roofing contractor, providing high-quality asphalt roofs to homeowners throughout Wisconsin.
Contact us today to get a free roof estimate.