5 Roofing Mistakes Anyone Can Make

While it may seem uncommon, roofing mistakes happen often and can be costly. If you are a new homeowner and want to do some maintenance on your roof this summer, don’t take it lightly. Not only do you need to be safe, but there are a couple of steps you can take to avoid some costly decisions. Here are some roofing mistakes you can avoid. 

Trying to repair your roof by yourself

Honestly, most homeowners are not up to the task tending to their roofs. The roof of a home is a valuable part of the property, and trying to fix it on your own with little to no experience can have disastrous results. Many people think that they can make simple fixes and be off the roof in no time. However, do you know the proper placement for a nail? Do you know that you could possibly make that hole worse if you don’t put the nail in the right place?

Instead of trying to do it yourself, go ahead and call a professional and have them take a look at your roof. Not only can it save you money, but you can prevent injury and damage to your home. Most importantly, you will have peace of mind. We know of many who have tried to fix their own roof and have had disastrous results and then called us. Even if you don’t think it’s necessary, just call a professional residential roofer and get their opinion before you make a classic roofing mistake.

Buying the wrong materials

Roofs are different from house to house, and when trying to fix a roof many make the common roofing mistake of buying the wrong materials. Whether you have a metal roof or asphalt shingles, the tools you use, the paint you use, and even the screws you use all matter. The type of roofing is specific to your home. If you use the wrong materials it can create leaks and cracks that only exacerbate the problem. Meaning, you have to spend more time on your roof, and possibly do even more damage.

Make sure to do your homework. Know the specific type of material used on the roof and the best way to patch your roof. Some people make the mistake of thinking a temporary solution will last years. Most people are also not equipped with the tools and knowledge to make a patch last. Do your homework before you climb onto your roof, and avoid this rookie mistake. 

Not properly maintaining your roof

Like anything else, a good roof requires good maintenance year-round. That means you need to clear off your roof of trees and debris, clean your gutters, and repaint when needed. Despite what many people think, roofs can be damaged easily, and left unattended, cracks can start to show. Replace broken shingles, power wash your gutters and roof, and call someone if you see multiple leaks. If you are proactive your roof will last longer and cost you less money over time. Forgetting about your roof can ultimately lead to paying for a new one, and costing you thousands of dollars.

Installing Solar Panels

It’s awesome that you want to go green and help the environment, but installing solar panels is both a costly and delicate decision. You need to know how much energy your family consumes and if solar panels can output that much energy, and how many you will need on your roof. Furthermore, the type of roof you have can affect the cost of your solar panel as some material requires extra work and knowledge. Many make the roofing mistake that you just need to slap a panel on your roof and you start saving money.

That’s not true, it’s going to take 6-8 years before your solar panels start paying for themselves because of the upfront cost. It can also take a few days to install, and you need different permits depending on your area. That doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it in the long run. Just make sure you know what you are getting into.

Need a repair or new roof on your home? Galaxy Construction and Roofing is best suited for any problem you have. Whether you need simple patchwork done or an entirely new roof, we can cover it all. Contact us today and see how we can help you!