4 Things That Can Go Wrong During A Roof Replacement
A roof replacement is a significant investment in your home’s safety, comfort, and curb appeal. But, like any major project, it can encounter challenges.
Being aware of potential issues that can arise during a roof replacement allows you to plan, communicate effectively with contractors, and ensure a successful outcome.
Rescue My Roof has been an expert in roofing for over a decade, helping homeowners achieve a safe home and family. During a roof replacement, we’ve seen what can go wrong (and what can go right), so you know how to prepare.
In this article, we’ll explore four common obstacles that can arise during a roof replacement and provide insights on how to address them. Ultimately, you’ll walk away knowing how to navigate challenges during a roof replacement.
4 Roof Replacement Issues
Even with trained, certified roofing contractors, issues can arise during a roof replacement. Here are four problems to be prepared for:
1. Weather Delays
Weather conditions, including rain, storms, or extreme heat, can disrupt the roofing project. During a replacement, the old roof is torn off so new materials can be installed, creating a short period for your roof’s decking to be exposed to the elements.
Underlayments like synthetic felt and Ice and Water Shield can protect your exposed decking for up to two weeks. So if your roof replacement stops, your home is still protected.
However, the project will have to stop during severe weather, and it will take longer to replace the roof.
Keep a close eye on the weather forecast and work with your roofing contractor to schedule the project during a favorable weather window. Additionally, have a contingency plan in place in case of unexpected delays.
2. Unexpected Damage
Once the old roofing materials are removed, underlying issues such as rotting or damaged decking, come to light. These issues must be addressed before installing the new roof.
Unfortunately, replacing decking costs money, so you can expect the costs to be added to the final bill. Additionally, because there’s no way to determine the full extent of any decking damage before a replacement, this is one of the most common problems in the roofing industry.
A roof inspection can give us a better understanding of what to prepare ourselves for during a roof replacement. Work with a contractor to thoroughly inspect your roof, look for hidden damages, and prepare the materials you need for a smooth, surprise-free replacement.
3. Inexperienced Roofers
A roof replacement is an expensive endeavor. Homeowners are often tempted to choose the cheapest contractor to save on roof replacement costs. But an affordable estimate doesn’t mean it’s a good deal.
Here are some things that could go wrong if you hire an inexperienced roofer:
- Exterior home damage
- Low-quality materials
- Ghosting
- Improper installation
- Bad warranties
If you hire an inexperienced roofer, you might have an uncertified roofing system. This means you won’t get the best warranties the roofing industry has to offer.
You deserve a roof to keep your home and family safe; hire a reputable roofing company to ensure the job is done right.
4. Voided Warranties
A warranty isn’t worth the paper it is written on if your roofer does not follow the shingle manufacturers’ installation requirements. If your contractor uses methods the manufacturer disapproves of, you risk a voided warranty.
Here are some scenarios that could void your warranty:
- Starters shingles aren’t installed
- The wrong nails are used
- An ice and water shield isn’t used
- Flashing is improperly applied or just plain missing
Preparing For A Roof Replacement
Roofing contractors are human, which means they are not immune from challenges that pop up during a roof replacement, even if they are professionals.
By understanding these common hiccups and having contingency plans in place, you can confidently navigate your roof replacement project and ensure a durable and well-protected roof for years to come.
Want to prepare further for your roof replacement? You can read “How Much Should You Spend On A New Roof (2022 Roofing Costs)” and “The Top 8 Questions To Ask A Roofing Contractor” to learn more.If you need a roof replacement in Southeastern Wisconsin, Rescue My Roof has you covered. Contact us today to get a free estimate.