When you get a new roof, you expect it to last for years, and the last thing that any homeowner expects is to have to replace a new roof. New roof failure is rare, but it can happen, especially if you don’t hire the right contractor for roof replacement in Edmonton. So what could cause your new roof to fail? Here are the most common causes of new roof failure:
#1. The roof was installed poorly.
Even if you’ve purchased only the best roofing materials for your new roof, if it wasn’t installed properly, it is subject to failure. When it comes time to install a new roof on your home, it’s essential to take your time and do your research when picking a roofing contractor. If you hire an inexperienced roofer, or a roofer who cuts corners, you could be stuck dealing with the aftermath, and if the roofer isn’t insured, you may also be stuck paying for their mistakes. Here are a few examples of the many ways the wrong contractor could cut corners or make mistakes when installing your roof:
- Not following manufacturer’s instructions during the installation process.
- Improperly nailing shingles.
- Not understanding how important ventilation and insulation are to the long-term success of your roof.
#2. Your roof was made with the wrong roofing materials.
When it comes to choosing the basics of your roof, like whether it’s asphalt, cedar, etc., the ball is in your court, but when it comes to other materials, like the sealants, leak barriers and edge metal, it’s important to hire the right contractor. The cheapest bid is probably cheap for a reason, and if you choose the contractor who provides you with the cheapest bid without doing your research, you could end up with a new roof doomed to fail because of the low-quality materials used to build it. When deciding which contractor to choose, ask them about the materials they use. If possible, you may be able to pay a bit more upfront for the most important materials, like leak barriers and sealants, to ensure that they are high quality.
#3. Your roof isn’t properly ventilated or insulated.
Your roof depends on the right balance of ventilation and insulation. If your roof isn’t properly insulated or ventilated, it can lead to moisture build up and heat damage in the summer and cause ice dams in the winter. It’s also important to ensure that there is an exhaust system in place in your attic so that hot air can be forced out.
#4. Your roofer sealed with caulk instead of using roof flashings.
Some roofers are under the impression that caulk works just as well as roof flashings, which they believe are used more for the design of your roof than protecting it. However, flashings are essential for protecting the most vulnerable parts of your roof from leaks. Caulk may work for awhile, but it will break down over time, leaving you susceptible to leaks once again. When you hire a contractor for your new roof, it’s important to ensure that they will install actual flashing on your roof.
No matter how new your roof is, hiring the wrong contractor puts you at risk.
When you have a new roof installed on your home, it should give you peace of mind. However, if you hire the wrong contractor for the job, you could experience roof failure a lot sooner than you may think. That’s why, whether you’re looking for a major roofing project, like roof replacement, or you need a minor service, like a roofing inspection, ALWAYS hire a professional, experienced roofing contractor. At Sargeant’s Roofing, we are proud to say that we have the experience and the expertise to provide you with the new roof you deserve. Visit our site to learn more or contact us today for more information.