Hi there, homeowners! If you’re considering replacing your roof, you’re about to make a significant investment in your home. But hold on a second – before you dive in, let’s chat about some common mistakes that could cost you big time. As a roofing expert who’s seen it all, I’m here to help you steer clear of these pitfalls.

When your roof needs to be replaced, use these 10 roofing tips to know what to look for. 

1. Skimping on quality to save a few bucks: I get it, roofing isn’t cheap. But trust me, going for the lowest bid or cheapest materials can be a disaster. You might save some money now, but you’ll pay later with repairs or an early replacement. Invest in a quality roof replacement for your home – your future self will thank you!
2. Ignoring ventilation: Your attic needs to breathe, folks! Proper ventilation in your attic is really important for preventing moisture buildup. Proper ventilation also extends the life of your roof. Don’t let the roofing company you work with overlook the ventilation.
3. Layering new shingles over old ones: It’s tempting to save time and money by just slapping new shingles on top of the old ones. Don’t do it. It’s like putting a Band-Aid on a broken arm. It doesn’t address what’s going on under those old shingles and will lead to bigger problems for you down the road.
4. Forgetting about proper insulation: While we’re talking about your attic, let’s not forget insulation. Good insulation works hand-in-hand with your roof to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient. A new roof is the perfect time to improve your insulation.
5. Neglecting to check for structural issues: Before the new roof goes on, make sure your home’s structure can handle it. Sagging rafters or hidden water damage could spell trouble if not addressed first.
6. Choosing the wrong type of roof for your climate: What works in sunny California might not cut it in snowy Minnesota. Make sure the roofing materials are designed for your local weather conditions.
7. DIY-ing it without proper knowledge: Look, I admire a good DIY spirit, but roofing is not a weekend warrior project. Unless you’re a pro, leave this one to the experts. Your safety (and your roof’s integrity) is worth it.
8. Not getting proper permits: Yes, paperwork is a pain. But skipping permits can lead to fines, issues with home sales, and even having to redo work. Do it by the book, folks!
9. Failing to consider roof pitch and drainage: Water is your roof’s enemy number one. Make sure your new roof has the right pitch and drainage systems (such as gutters)  to keep that water moving away from your home.
10. Not doing your homework on contractors: Last but certainly not least, don’t just hire the first roofer you find. All roofers are not the same. Make sure they are local and provide a good warranty on their work. Check references, read reviews, and make sure they’re licensed and insured. A good contractor is worth their weight in gold (or should I say, in shingles?).

There you have it – ten roofing mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Remember, a new roof is a big deal. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your home deserves the best protection possible!

If you have questions about your roof, or need a roof repair or replacement, give our office a call at 502-939-1983. We’d be happy to help you with a free roof inspection.