Signs of an Improper Roof Installation

by S&K Construction And Remodeling | Apr 23, 2025 | Blog

Spotting the Signs of an Improper Roof Installation

Looking up at your roof, does it seem like something isn’t quite right? As a homeowner, you may not have the roofing know-how to spot whether your roofer made a mistake when they put your new roof on. But roofing installation errors happen, and they can impact the quality and longevity of your roof. When roofers perform installations, they need to follow building codes, manufacturer instructions and industry best practices. When they don’t, you might be able to spot those problems simply by looking at the roof. And, where there is one problem with the installation, there could be more, and that could mean repairs or even replacement costs for you down the road.

Protect your investment in your roof and learn about potential roof installation problems. Below, we’ll outline the signs that your roof may have these problems and what you can do if you know that your roof was not installed properly.

1. Missing Components

Every part of your roof works together to protect your home. If even one component is missing, it can cause leaks, energy loss, or structural issues. Some common components that are sometimes left out of poor installations include:

Underlayment: This water-resistant layer beneath the shingles is essential for preventing water infiltration.
Drip Edge: A metal flashing at the roof edges, which helps guide water into the gutters and prevent damage to the fascia.
Starter Shingles: These are the first row of shingles, crucial for keeping water out along the roof’s edges.
Ventilation Components: Proper attic ventilation helps manage moisture and temperature. Missing vents can lead to mold, warped decking, and high energy bills.

Spotting these missing components often requires a trained eye, but visible water stains, increased energy costs, or mold growth in the attic can be signs.

2. Shingle Installation Problems

Improper shingle installation is one of the most common and noticeable issues. Here are a few problems to look for:

Crooked or Misaligned Shingles: Shingles should be laid in a straight line. Misalignment is often visible from the ground and points to poor workmanship.
Improper Nailing: Shingles require a specific number and placement of nails. Overdriven nails can crack shingles, while underdriven or misplaced nails can allow shingles to blow off.
Inconsistent Overhangs: Shingles should hang over the edge of the roof slightly to direct water into the gutters. Too short or too long can cause issues.
Missing Shingles: New roofs should not be missing shingles. This is a clear sign of negligence.

Poorly installed shingles can cause leaks, reduce your roof’s lifespan, and lead to expensive repairs.

3. Flashing Installation Issues

Flashing is used to direct water away from vulnerable areas like chimneys, vents, valleys, and intersections of walls and roof planes. Signs of poor flashing installation include:

Gaps or Lifting: If flashing is loose or has gaps, water can enter and cause rot or leaks.
Improper Sealing: Flashing should be sealed with roofing cement or caulking. Inadequate sealing can compromise the roof.
Reusing Old Flashing: Some contractors cut corners by reusing old flashing, which can be less effective and lead to early failures.

Inspect areas around chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys for signs of improper flashing. Water stains on ceilings often point to these issues.

4. Valley Installation Issues

Valleys are where two roof slopes meet, creating a natural channel for water runoff. They are particularly vulnerable and must be installed with precision. Look out for:

Improper Valley Materials: There are two main types of valley installations: open and closed. The wrong type of material or technique can lead to leaks.
Improper Overlapping: Shingles must be properly overlapped in valleys to ensure water runs off correctly.
Cracking or Gapping: These can allow water to penetrate the roof structure.

Valleys handle a high volume of water. Even small errors in this area can have significant consequences.

5. Gutter Installation Issues

While not part of the roof itself, gutters play a crucial role in protecting your roof and home foundation. Poor gutter installation can lead to:

Improper Slope: If gutters don’t slope correctly, water won’t drain and will pool, causing overflow.
Poor Attachment: Gutters that are loose or pulling away from the roof are ineffective.
Wrong Placement: Gutters should be placed directly below the edge of the shingles. Poor placement can cause water to miss the gutters entirely.

Overflowing gutters can lead to water pooling around your foundation or causing siding damage.

6. Other Roof Installation Problems

Besides the specific issues already listed, there are other signs that point to a poorly installed roof:

Sagging Areas: Parts of the roof that look sunken or wavy could indicate structural issues or improper decking.
Stains or Leaks in the Attic: These are telltale signs of water infiltration from bad flashing, poor shingle placement, or missing underlayment.
Visible Roof Decking: If you can see the wooden roof decking from the outside, the shingles may have been installed too far apart.
Mismatched Shingles: Using different batches or brands of shingles can cause aesthetic and functional issues.
Excess Debris or Nails: A messy job site or leftover materials can be a sign of a rushed or careless installation.

7. What to Do with a Bad Roof Installation?

If you suspect or confirm that your roof was installed improperly, take the following steps:

Document the Issues: Take photos and notes of any visible problems.
Get an Independent Inspection: A licensed roofing inspector or contractor can provide a detailed report.
Contact the Original Installer: They may offer to fix the issues under warranty. If they refuse, escalate the matter.
Check Manufacturer Warranties: Improper installation can void warranties, but some manufacturers still offer limited protection.
Consider Legal Options: If the roofer was negligent or violated contract terms, you may be entitled to legal remedies.
Hire a Trusted Contractor: If repairs or a full replacement is needed, work with a well-reviewed and reputable roofing company.

8. Avoid Problems if Your Roof is Installed Wrong

The best way to protect yourself is to do your homework before the roof is installed:

Hire Certified Contractors: Look for roofers certified by major manufacturers (like Owens Corning Preferred Contractors) who follow strict installation guidelines.
Check References and Reviews: Read Google reviews and ask for past customer references.
Ask About Warranties: A reputable contractor will back their work with a workmanship warranty in addition to the product warranty.
Request Detailed Estimates: A good estimate outlines all the materials and work involved.
Don’t Go with the Cheapest Option: A low bid can be tempting, but it may lead to costly problems later.

Conclusion

Improper roof installation can lead to serious consequences, including leaks, mold, structural damage, and voided warranties. Recognizing the signs of a bad installation early can save you thousands in future repairs. At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we are proud to offer expert roofing services throughout Northeast Ohio. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we follow strict guidelines for quality and professionalism. If you suspect a problem with your roof or are planning a new installation, contact us for a free inspection and quote.

We serve homeowners in Youngstown, Cleveland, Twinsburg, Medina, Beachwood, Chagrin Falls, Willoughby, and the surrounding areas. Financing options are available to make your roofing project affordable and stress-free. Trust S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC to do the job right the first time.

Call us today or visit our website to schedule your consultation!