7 common roofing mistakes to avoid
Taking on a roofing project can be expensive, which is why it is essential to plan ahead so that one does not end up spending more than expected. For this, it is important to avoid some of the common roofing mistakes that many homeowners make. This way, one can ensure there are minimal hassles and hurdles during the various processes of the roofing project. Here are some of the common roofing mistakes one should avoid.
Not applying for a roofing permit
Permits are required for all renovation and construction projects, including roofing. However, many homeowners fail to consider this requirement and forget to apply for a roofing permit. This usually happens when homeowners decide to undertake the project themselves. Since they are used to contractors applying for permits most of the time, homeowners may forget to apply for one before starting the project. Sometimes, homeowners or contractors want to cut costs and decide to skip the permitting process. However, this can lead to significant problems later, such as heavy fines, removal of the freshly installed roof, and even loss of home insurance coverage.
Not removing the old shingles
When it comes to asphalt roofing, many people make the mistake of applying a new layer over the older one. While some types of roofing can be done over preexisting ones, this does not always work well. This is because applying new shingles over older ones means covering up an issue unknowingly. For instance, there might be holes or cracks underneath the old shingles. When new shingles are overlaid, this problem will persist, rendering the new roofing project futile. Besides this, layering shingles over the old ones will add extra weight, which can cause damage to the overall structure of the roof as well as the house. To avoid this, hire a roofing inspector to examine the roof and check for fragile areas and weak spots.