A good roofing job is the difference between a long-lasting, safe roof and one that could be dangerous. Unfortunately, not all roofing contractors deliver high-quality work. Poor roofing jobs can lead to major issues down the line, costing you money, time and a lot of stress.
There are some signs to look for, which can help you separate the wheat from the chaff. In this post, we will examine eight telltale signs of a bad roofing job, so that you can recognise and remedy them before the weather highlights them for you.
1. Missing or damaged tiles
Missing or damaged tiles are a common, telltale sign of a bad roofing job. Each tile should be securely attached to your roof, as well as being uniform and free from any damage.
If you notice any tiles on your roof that are cracked, loose or missing, this is a clear indication of a bad installation or subpar materials. The often wet and windy UK climate means that problems like this can cause water to infiltrate your roof, causing further damage.
It is important to fix any damaged or missing tiles as quickly as possible. This may require a simple fix, or possibly much larger renovations. Either way, be sure to contact a reliable roofer rather than attempting to repair your roof yourself.
2. Sagging rooflines
Your roofline should be level and straight. If you notice any sagging or dipping in any area, this is a telltale sign of a bad roofing job. This might be caused by inadequate support in the framework of your roof, water damage, or the use of low-quality materials. You need to keep in mind that a sagging roof can eventually collapse if not addressed, causing major safety risks.
A sagging roof can be fixed by first inspecting your overall roof’s structure. Once the cause of the sagging has been determined, you can reinforce or replace damaged support beams or correct general issues to restore the roof’s integrity. Keep in mind this is a job for experienced professionals as it involves structural repairs.
3. Poor ventilation
Poor ventilation is another clear sign of a bad roofing job. A lack of ventilation can lead to a buildup of heat and moisture in your property’s attic. This can cascade into many additional problems, such as mould growth, accelerated wear of roofing materials, and additional cooling costs.
There are a few things you can do to improve roof ventilation, including installing ridge vents and attic fans. Proper ventilation should allow hot air and moisture to escape, maintaining a balanced temperature and humidity level in your roof space.
4. Flashing issues
Flashing is a construction element that prevents water from seeping into your roof at its junctions and edges. Depending on the type of roof you have, this can cause leaks around chimneys, skylights or roof valleys. These leaks can then cause significant water damage to your roof structure or the interior of your home.
To fix flashing, you’ll need to carefully remove and reinstall the flashing to ensure a watertight seal. This requires professional expertise to make sure that the flashing is correctly added and there aren’t any gaps.
5. Stains or discolouration
It’s a good practice to regularly inspect your roof. If you notice any stains or discolouration, this is an indication of wider issues like water damage or algae growth. Water stains might mean there are leaks, while dark streaks might mean you have algae or moss. If left untreated, both of these issues can lead to roof decay.
Thankfully, depending on how much staining you have, this can be a simple fix. You can clean the roof to remove algae and moss. If there are water stains, you may need assistance to repair leaks and ensure proper roof drainage.
6. Uneven surfaces
An uneven roof surface is a sign of poor installation – for example bad nailing or inadequate structural support. An uneven roof can curb your property’s ability to shed water efficiently, leading to water pooling and an increased risk of leaks. Not to mention – uneven roofs don’t look great from afar!
This is another fundamental issue that requires expert hands to fix. There are many causes for an uneven roof surface and as many fixes. This might include reinforcing the roof deck or replacing any poorly installed elements.
7. Exposed nails
Exposed nails are another telltale sign of a poor roofing job. Exposed nails can corrode or rust, leading to water infiltration points across your roof. They could also cause elements of your roofing system to detach during intense weather events like high wings. Over time, this can cause a long list of issues including leaks and water damage.
Thankfully, fixing exposed nails isn’t too difficult of a job. It involves reseating or replacing any exposed nails with new joiners that are flush with the surface of your roof. Some roofers also choose to add a small amount of roofing sealant over nail heads to provide additional protection.
8. Premature roof aging
A well-installed roof will last for a long time. If you are noticing signs of premature roof aging, such as cracking or significant fading – then there might be some problems with the initial installation. Any of these issues can shorten the lifespan of your roof, meaning you’ll have to pay for additional repairs or a complete replacement.
To address premature roof aging, you should identify any issues or defective materials and get them fixed. Sometimes, roofing experts choose to apply a protective coat to extend the roof’s life. Proper installation in future projects can prevent premature aging.
Get expert roofing jobs with DPR Barnsley
Are you searching for roofing experts to make sure you avoid these common signs of a bad job? Perhaps you’ve noticed some of these signs and need repairs? Either way – DPR Barnsley is here to help.
With over 35 years of experience in Barnsley and the surrounding area, we are one of the leading companies for roof installations and repairs. Whether you need help with domestic or commercial roofing, simply call us on 01226 670 008 to speak with our expert team.