Warning Signs of Hiring an Unprofessional Roofing Contractor
June 16, 2022
Everybody thinks they are a roofing contractor in Toronto, and with a little experience they hold themselves out as a flat roofing contractor or commercial roofing contractor working as flat roof replacement contractors. But not all contractors are created equally. Hiring a roofing contractor can be your single biggest business decision, your roof is your building’s primary asset, it protects your assets inside, the structure of the facility, and people inside. It is work you just don’t want to trust to just anybody. You need to discover a reliable, reputable contractor to carry out the work, and you need to be 100% confident in your selection. In this blog we want to help you identify some of the common signs of poor roofing work so you make sure you get quality workmanship.
Mistakes of Unprofessional Roofing Contractor in Toronto
Mismatched Roofing Shingles
This is obvious upon visual inspection, many contractors use multiple suppliers and products can be mixed into different jobs. To avoid this problem, select a contractor that has a consistent supplier.
Incorrect Use Of Roofing Nails
Roofing nails are task specific, certain nails for certain functions. They also secure the decking. If the wrong nails are used, warranties can be voided, precluding insurance payments if the wrong nails are used in the wrong situation. Nail problems to be concerned about: no barbs, too short, nail heads that are too small, nails driven too deeply, nails driven into decking knots or between decking sheets all these problems lead to premature roof degradation.
Incorrect Shingle Overhang At The Eavestrough
Shingle should be 4cm-10cm overhang. Anything more and they can lift and blow away during storms, if less that can be an entry point for water. Proper shingle installation, and drip edge flashing prevents the two problems mentioned. Shingle adhesive can affix the flashing and it has a long lifespan.
Reusing Drip Edge Flashing
You need new drip edge flashing anytime you are shingling your roof. It prevents many problems. It keeps the elements outside, stops decking decay because the water rolls off the flashing, it keeps insects and vermin out of the attic, and it maintains the integrity of the shingles that are attached to the decking.
Improper Or Missing Starter Shingles
This is a common mistake for DIYers and new contractors. Correctly laying out a starter row at the eavestrough prevents water leaks to the decking.
Improper Installation of Underlayment
Underlayment is waterproof and acts like a waterproofing insurance policy for your decking. It comes in asphalt, synthetic material or rubberized composition that is water-resistant and or waterproof, depending on choice of underlayment based on climate in your area.
Neglecting The Attic
A roofing system is made up of a number of subsystems. Your attic plays an important role in your roofing system. Without enough ventilation, moisture and heat buildup can create premature wear and tear for your shingles. Your insulation will pay a horrendous price, and you will be alerted to the problem through higher energy bills.
Improper Roof Slope
You need materials that are compatible with your roof slope. Without them, your roof is susceptible to leaks. A rule of thumb in the roofing industry is 4 units of rise per 12 units per run when you install asphalt, wood or tile roofing systems.
Roof Gutter Sag
Your gutters are part of the drainage system. If the sag, water can overflow, if they aren’t set at the right pitch, water stands and doesn’t move to the downspouts, gutters set too low can see water back-up and enter your roof system. If they sag, they can be pulled away from the fascia, which is the cover where the roof meets the home’s outer edge exposing an opening for water, insects and vermin to enter.
Insufficient Securing of Roof Valley Flashing
The valleys on your roof work handling water run-off during rainstorms. Due to the water traffic, valley’s are prone to failure and leaks. It is essential that valley flashing is installed correctly or disaster awaits you. The adhesive and roof sealant must not be scrimped on because that is the only thing between water leaks and not at the valleys when flashing is installed.
Not Planning for Ice Dams
You need the right amount of insulation to prevent ice dams. The thaw refreeze process that occurs in winter months can force water under the shingles at the roof’s edge. Adding an extra layer of underlayment four feet up the roof can help reduce the risk of ice damming.
Ignoring The Manufacturer’s Guideline
If you don’t follow manufacturer’s guidelines during the installation process, you can see your warranty voided when you need it most. So follow instructions and save on long-term costs associated with a void warranty.
Skipping The Roof Permit
The property owner is ultimately responsible for a roofing permit as most municipalities require one, and the owner has the liability (fines) if no permit is obtained. If a roof is installed without a permit, insurance coverage can be denied or the municipality can demand the roof’s removal for a violation.
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