The 7 Most Disastrous DIY Roofing Mistakes

Stonewater Roofing’s expert technicians have inspected thousands of roofs in the East Texas and DFW area over the last few years. In that time, we have seen a lot of DIY roofing and remodeling projects go horribly wrong on windows, doors, ventilation, siding and, of course, roofing. In no particular order, we present the seven worst DIY roofing mistakes which homeowners perform that can lead to more problems.

  1. Reroofing by adding a new layer of shingles: We’ve torn off roofs with three layers of shingles before. The homeowners usually site that they just wanted a new color or that their previous roofer told them it was okay and a money saver. All it takes is the old bottom layer to have issues and the whole roofing system fails. This may be the worst thing we’ve seen, particularly due to the wasted money spent on the short-lived second and possible third layers. Of the worst roof repairs homeowners perform, this one can cost the most in the long run.
  2. Trimming all parts of a tree except for those overhanging the roof: Perhaps the roof makes it too hard to reach branches with an extension trimmer, or perhaps it’s just negligence. You never want branches hanging over your roof. This is asking for clogged gutters that fail and moss growth on the shingles.
  3. Power washing roofs to remove moss: Some homeowners take this a step further and sprinkle bleach on the affected area. Both of these roof “cleaning” techniques are highly destructive to shingles, not to mention unsafe!
  4. Cleaning gutters from the ground: It’s easy to spot a gutter that was improperly cleaned with an extension poll or extension hose. Sludge is often built up thick in the worst points possible. It then takes just a few bits of debris to cause a plugged-up gutter. It can literally snap, burst or break free from the roof. In some cases, we’ve seen gutters take pieces of the roof with them when they collapse.
  5. Pulling up shingles to look for leaks: Yes, most people wouldn’t do this, but it’s been done before. We often see caulking and other repairs under shingles during tear-offs. This is just asking for more leaks!
  6. Adding or repairing skylights: This is not a great DYI idea unless you are a window installer for a living. Skylights are one of the leakiest components to a roof. If not properly installed, they can wreak havoc on your roof, ceiling and room below.
  7. Doing anything to ports, vents or chimneys: This follows skylights as being something left to a professional. Chimneys feel particularly safe to work near, which is why the roofing around them tends to suffer.

There are a few rules to roof maintenance. They are constantly broken and end up costing homeowners more down the road. We hope you avoid the following:

  • Walking on your roof, no matter the grade
  • Power washing your roof or gutters
  • Patching leaks from the roof surface
  • Ignoring overhanging trees

Always seek a professional before combating roofing issues on your own, so that you don’t make these DIY roofing mistakes. What you may save now could cost you a great deal more in the future.

The professionals at Stonewater Roofing are highly skilled and experienced with exterior renovation, roofing assesment and installation. We can perform a free in-depth inspection of your roof, let you know its condition and provide a free estimate for its replacement.

Comparing Three-Tab & Architectural Roofing Shingles

Texas towns are subject to a wide variety of weather. Many of the storms that impact this region make their force known upon rooftops, power lines and trees. Residents should be educated when it comes to shingle roofing and know the differences in the two main types of roofing shingles used in the area. Choosing the right option to replace a roof is essential to withstanding wind, rain and hailstorms more effectively, and extending the life of your new roof.

Stonewater Roofing’s trained and certified technicians understand storm damage and how different shingles handle weather phenomena. They can guide you through the selection process and determine what is best for your roofing needs.

What is a three-tab shingle?

Three-Tab Shingles

Three equal cutouts, or tabs, made along the shingle’s bottom edge characterize a three-tab shingle. Three-tabs are only available in one size and shape with a uniform look. Three-tab shingles are simpler and lighter because they consist of fewer materials. These shingles usually cost less than architectural shingles, which is why some homeowners prefer them. Three-tab shingles are a cost effective choice if you have a low budget.

What is an architectural shingle?

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, which allows them to give off a dimensional look. These shingles are thicker and weigh double to triple the weight of a three-tab shingle. Due to their thickness and excellent composition, these shingles come with longer lasting warranties. Designer shingles can be made to mimic tile, cedar shake, stone and other roofing types, and tend to weigh the most.

The Shingle Showdown

Let’s see how three-tab and architectural shingles stack up in most scenarios. We looked at our own data along with industry data to showcase 10 direct comparisons.

  Three-Tab Architectural
Life Expectancy 20-25 Years 40-60 Years
Average Warranty Coverage 20 Years 50 Years
Ability to Shed Water Below Average Above Average
Curb Appeal Boost Little High
Return on Investment 44% 83%
Adds Value to Home No Yes
Handles High Winds Effectively No Yes
Handles Large Hail Effectively No Yes
Has Loads of Color Options No Yes
Overall Good Investment No Yes

In the battle of three-tab versus architectural shingles, there can only be one winner. Architectural shingles flat out win! They were engineered to perform longer and are more visually appealing on a home.

The professionals at Stonewater Roofing are highly skilled and experienced with exterior renovation, roofing assesment and installation. We can perform a free in-depth inspection of your roof, let you know its condition and provide a free estimate for its replacement.

Protecting Your Multi-Family Housing Investment

Natural disasters such as hail, wind, tornadoes or hurricanes are a huge setback for the operational efficiency of a multi-family housing business. As soon as a roof damage is evident, it is important to take immediate measures to protect your buildings from additional damage. Owners or investors will require commercial roof repair services to replace any damage on site. When employing a roofing contractor, there are certain focus areas which must be kept in mind. To help, this post outlines three critical focal points to consider when hiring a credible and trustworthy roofer specializing in this type of repair.

1. Avoid Fraudulent Contractors

Property owners/managers of multi-family housing who are looking for roofing replacement services can fall victim to scams and contractor fraud. Fraudulent contractors may steal money by offering inferior quality or incomplete repairs. Sometimes, they may complete the job, but charge an exorbitant cost for their services. Avoid scams by steering clear of:

  • Out-of-state contractors.
  • Companies that offer to absorb your deductible.
  • Storm chasers who show up right after natural disasters.

TIP: Be proactive and have your preferred roofing contractor ready before severe weather arrives.

2. Photograph The Natural Disaster’s Effect On Your Property

Photographs of the damaged property work as proof for the insurance claim. It is recommended that you take the photos immediately after the damage and before the beginning of the restoration work. Also, if the property is not yet damaged, you should take a complete set of photographs of your multi-family property in its current condition, which would serve as ‘before damage’ pictures in the case of a later disaster.

Tip: Be proactive and document your property as is.

3. Know Local Building Codes & Permit Requirements

In most states, it is illegal to perform demolition, permanent repairs or site developments without having the required permits. It is, therefore, important to obtain proper permits when undertaking any commercial projects. After assessing your property post-disaster, contact your local building authority for information on required permits. Building permits are often required for new roof installation. A qualified local roofing contractor should be familiar with local building codes and requirements. Hiring appropriately will streamline this process.

Tip: Be proactive and have a plan of action in place.

 

As soon as a natural disaster hits your property, you should contact a professional roofing contractor to assess your property. However, it’s best to have a maintenance and storm monitoring service already established with a qualified service provider.

The professionals at Stonewater Roofing are highly skilled and experienced with exterior renovation, roofing asset and installation. We can perform a free in-depth inspection of your roof, let you know its condition and provide a free estimate for its replacement.