Reroofing or roof replacements are one of the most expensive home renovation projects because of a reason--it is one of the hardest home exterior jobs to perform be it by professionals or homeowners who may attempt to DIY it. Since it comes with a hefty price tag, the second option seems to be more plausible for more homeowners across America. While it is undoubtedly cheaper, there are many expected trade offs when it comes to the execution of the project, resulting to the most common roof replacement mistakes homeowners commit when they try to do it themselves:

No Starter Strip

Consider this a trick of the pros, but a starter strip is important when it comes to reroofing. The starter shingles are cut by around nine inches for new construction or roof replacement to fit in the existing first course. For three-tab repair shingles, the measurement is five inches. This maybe too complicated for homeowners who will try to DIY it, that’s why it would be better to have it done by the professionals.

Misaligned Shingles

Another common roofing mistakes committed by non-professionals is misaligning shingles. This offense will not only be an eyesore for your roof but can also cause more serious damage in the long run. The solution for this common problem is having vertical and horizontal guides and drawing chalk lines when alignments when installing new shingles. For repairs, simply align the new shingles to the existing shingles. Set horizontal chalk lines every 10 inches starting from the bottom. Vertical chalk lines are made every 36 inches starting from the ridge to the end of the shingles on the first course.

Improperly nailed shingles

Some may think that the nails used in locking shingles in place don’t matter, but the truth is that it may make or break your roofing project. To make sure you use the right nails, make it a habit to read product specifications by the manufacturer on the number of shingles to be installed based on local wind zone. Three-tab shingles usually require at least four nails although the number of nails could go up to six in places where strong winds blow.  Know also the length of nails required for the right shingles. As a rule of thumb, nail penetration should be at least three-quarters of an inch.

Aside from the number of nails required to properly fix the shingles to the roof, the location where the nails are driven is just as important. Proper and enough spacing between nails is crucial when measuring the durability and sturdiness of your newly repaired or replaced roof. Read the instructions on the nails on where you should place the nails on the shingles.

Sealing with the wrong cement

Some homeowners commit roofing mistakes towards the end of the project by using the wrong kind of cement. Improper use of incompatible cement and other adhesives could further damage the shingles, can cause further damage in the long run, and can be an eyesore for your home. Wrong placement of cement can also be an issue. Asphalt cement should only be used on the underside of shingles.

Shingles Do Not Overhang the Eaves

Some amateur roofers overhang shingles by the eaves more than the recommended half inch. Ensure that there is enough space between the shingles by about one-sixteenth of an inch. Affix three inches of shingles above the eaves, the number of nails depending on local and geographic conditions.

Neglecting the attic

Many homeowners forget about the attic when fixing their roof. As a result, this space is neglected and oftentimes becomes the receiving end of unaddressed issues and problems. Keep in mind that a roof is an entire system, comprised of many components. Moreover, the condition of your newly repaired or installed roof maybe affected by the condition of your attic. For example, some neglect the ventilation of this space resulting to the early deterioration of shingles and the skyrocketing of your utility bills.

To make sure that the quality of your roofing project is not compromised, it would be best to leave it to the professionals instead of attempting to do it yourself. While you can spend less by not having to pay labor and professional costs, these common roofing mistakes may lead to more damage and more expenses in the long run.

 

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