Top 4 Roof Installation Mistakes Niagara Homeowners Make
Having a new roof installed on your house can protect your home from the elements, keep it cooler in the summer, and warmer in the winter. Some homeowners, however, try to do a roof installation in Niagara themselves. The results are often unfortunate, with multiple installation mistakes that lead to leaks, drafts, missing shingles and a host of other problems. If you’re a novice, keep these common mistakes in mind when you try to put on shingles yourself.
Mistake #1: Improperly Prepared Decking
The decking is one of the most crucial elements of your home. Without a properly prepared deck over your rafters, there is nothing for the shingles to cling to and you could sustain heavy water damage from rain and ice dams. Be sure you carefully read the manufacturer’s requirements for the type you’ve chosen. You’ll need some kind of protective, weather resistant barrier such as felt or a rubber underlay, depending on the slope of the roof and the type of materials. Don’t try to save money on the underlay. If you don’t use the recommended type, it will void any manufacturer’s warranty.
Mistake #2: Failure To Remove Old Materials
Many people are tempted to simply throw some new shingles on over the old ones in order to save some money. In the long run, you’ll probably end up having to pay more money because the next time you need roofing done, they will have to remove multiple layers. Layering also means you’re simply covering, rather than fixing, any current problems. Because excess heat is trapped in your attic, your shingles will age and dry out more quickly. You’ll also be putting more stress on your rafters and the decking, which can lead to structural problems down the road. If you’re doing a roof installation in Niagara, take the time to have the old one removed.
Mistake #3: Insufficient Venting
f you don’t properly ventilate the attic area beneath your new shingle installation, Niagara roofing experts assure you that you’ll run into problems caused by trapped heat. Proper ridge vents translate to long lasting shingles. There are other advantages as well; including less likelihood that you’ll have problems with ice dams. Proper venting also minimizes any risk of leaking by making sure no moisture is trapped around ridges or any structural components.
Mistake #4: Not Nailing Properly
When installing typical, three tab shingles, roofing contractors suggest using four nails to hold each piece securely in place. If high winds are a concern, you may want to use as many as six nails. Some homeowners reason that three nails are as good as four, but over time, sections with only three nails will become loose because of the extra strain on them. It’s better to use a few too many nails than to skimp. Proper nailing is also important. Nails that are over-driven can go clear through the shingle, leaving it unattached. Under-driven nails will pop up, eventually poking a hole in the next layer. Talk to someone who has experience in roof installation in Niagara. He can show you how to use the proper pressure and technique so that everything stays in place.
Roof Installation: Niagara Homeowners Prefer Experts
There are few home improvements that are as crucial as having a solid, leak-proof roof installed. Savvy home owners in the Niagara area understand that installing shingles isn’t something just anybody can do properly. Instead, they hire professionals who are licensed and properly trained. When you’re ready for a new roof, talk to the experts; they can do the job right the first time and save you money in the long run.
