Roof repair is an important part of your roof’s maintenance; fixing leaks, sealing cracks, and preventing structural damage. But simple oversights, such as low-quality materials and neglecting flashing, can lead to more harm than good. Whether you’re a responsible homeowner preparing for the storm season or a curious reader gaining some information on the subject, this blog highlights a few common mistakes that novice technicians and uninformed property owners make and what they should do instead.
Roof Repair Mistakes: Their Effects & How To Avoid Them
Over the years, Aztec Force Roofing, LLC has helped countless homeowners fix their damaged roofs. Whether a windstorm blew away your shingles or your old roof has a few leaks, we have fixed it all. This is why we have created a list of widely repeated mistakes that could cost you dearly in the long run.
Read along as we explain what you shouldn’t do in case of a roof repair project.
Delaying Repairs
One of the first and most common mistakes we’ve noticed homeowners make is to put off fixing minor issues. This escalates the problem significantly, turning small repairs into large-scale renovations.
Solution: Instead of ignoring that small crack in the corner of your ceiling, have it fixed immediately. This can save you thousands of dollars in structural repairs.
| According to Experts! Minor repairs only cost about $150-$200, while structural repairs can cost $1000-$5000 instead. |
Using Incorrect Materials
Each roof is different, and each climate is unique. Using something that your cousin did for their house across the country may not be a great idea. For example, replacing slate shingles with asphalt shingles when they go missing.
Solution: Instead, always use weather-appropriate materials to prolong the lifespan and restore the integrity of your roof.
Improper Flashing Installation
An inexperienced novice may overlook sufficient overlapping of flashing, use too much caulk, or even leave nails poking out. This can lead to leaks, mold growth, and rotting, ultimately resulting in structural damage and lowered property value.
Solution: always make sure that the flashing is aligned properly, is securely installed, and doesn’t have any gaps so that your roof stays dry and sturdy for years to come.
Neglecting Attic Ventilation
Due to haste or genuine oversight, people can tend to block attic vents, combine different types of vents, or even create inadequate exhaust ventilation. These can result in roof degradation, poor energy efficiency, or even mold growth.
Solution: Instead, never combine materials and vent types; do sufficient research and take your time doing repairs to ensure the integrity of your roof and save energy costs.
Attempting DIY Roof Repairs
Up next, in case of roof damage, some property owners with a can-do spirit may try to take on the repairs by themselves. Not a good idea. Amateurs do not have the necessary tools or training to properly diagnose and effectively resolve roofing problems and can even end up worsening the issue.
Solution: always entrust roof repairs to licensed roofers with plenty of experience with your kind of roof to ensure efficient repairs and long-term results.
Neglecting Roof Inspections
Prevention is always better than a cure. Most property owners don’t really think about their roofs till it’s already too late, leading to several problems that could have been easily avoided if they had been detected in time.
Solution: Schedule regular roof inspections to catch small issues early on so that each potential disaster can be avoided before it has the chance to escalate.
Being Stingy With Your Budget
Finally, some property owners look for the most cost-effective solutions, which may not be the most durable. For example, hiring inexperienced roofers just because they demand a lower price or going for low-quality materials to save a few bucks. This can lead to poor repairs and thousands of dollars in property damage.
Solution: always treat your roof repairs as investments for your future. This will ensure quality materials, expert roofing contractors, and durable repairs that safeguard your investment and loved ones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many mistakes that homeowners tend to make during roof repair projects that can lead to even more trouble down the line. Never use the wrong materials, always hire experienced roofers, and pay attention to flashing and attic ventilation during repairs to ensure that your roof is sturdy, energy-efficient, and stands the test of time and weather.
FAQs
- Are roof repairs covered by insurance?
Depending on the type of insurance you have and whether the damage is sudden or caused by natural disasters, it will be covered by your home insurance. - How long do roof repairs take?
Depending on the type and extent of damage, roof repair can take as little as an hour or several. - How often should I schedule roof inspections?
You should schedule roof inspections at least twice a year. - What are the risks of DIY roof repair?
DIY repairs can worsen the damage, void warranties, and even risk injury. It’s always safer to hire professionals. - How can I make roof repairs last longer?
Regular maintenance, proper materials, and timely inspections can extend the life of your roof repairs significantly.