Asphalt shingles are among the most popular roofing materials in the industry due to their durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. However, their performance depends heavily on proper installation.
Unfortunately, many roofing problems stem from a few common installation mistakes. Below, we’ll break down common mistakes and provide tips on how to avoid them.
1. Incorrect Nail Placement or Insufficient Nailing
One of the most frequent errors during shingle installation is improper nail placement or using too few nails. A common issue is placing nails too high on the shingle, which can leave the shingle below with inadequate fastening.
The majority of shingle manufacturers recommend at least eight nails per shingle to guarantee sufficient anchoring of the roofing system.
How to Avoid It:
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the placement of the shingles and the number of nails per shingle.
• Make sure the nails penetrate the top edge of the underlying shingle for maximum hold strength.
• Properly nailing down the shingles will prevent them from pulling off and creating vulnerabilities.
2. Roofs with Insufficient Pitch
Shingles are designed for roofs with a pitch greater than 2:12 and perform best on roofs with a 4:12 pitch or steeper. On roofs with slight slopes, water runoff slows down, avoiding drains, which increases the likelihood of leaks in vulnerable areas. Ask your local roofing contractor about flat roof alternatives.
How to Avoid It:
• Don’t install shingles on low-slope or flat roofs.
• Use alternative roofing materials designed for low-slope applications.
3. Incorrect Flashing Installation
Flashing, particularly around vents, pipes, and roof penetrations, is a common source of leaks. As your roof gets older, the flashing can wear out, or nails placed too close to the corners of the flashing can loosen and allow water to seep in.
How to Avoid It:
• Use high-quality flashing and gasket screws instead of nails.
• Avoid placing fasteners near the edges of the flashing.
• Double up pipe boots to add an extra layer of protection against the weather or wear and tear.
4. Excessive Overhang of Shingles
Shingles that hang too far off the roof’s edge—beyond 1.5 inches—can sag, crack, and expose the roof to leaks over time. Overhanging shingles can also damage fascia and soffit.
How to Avoid It:
• Follow manufacturer guidelines, which typically recommend an overhang of 0.5 to 0.75 inches.
• A drip edge can help create a clean finish and prevent sagging shingles.
5. Architectural Shingles
Racking, or installing shingles in a vertical pattern, is an acceptable method for 3-tab shingles but can cause severe issues with architectural shingles. If shingles are installed using this method, cracking along seams may occur over time.
How to Avoid It:
• Using a staggered or “stair-stepped” pattern for architectural shingles will prevent cracking.
• Always refer to the installation instructions provided for the best results.
Final Tips
Guarantee your asphalt shingles perform as intended:
• Read and follow the shingle manufacturer’s installation guidelines.
• Use high-quality materials, including nails, underlayment, and flashing.
• Invest in your home, hire a professional roofer to perform the installation.
Avoid these common mistakes to save time, money, and prevent headaches in the future. For more information, contact DryFL Construction Group.
Secure Your Home with Trusted Roofing Services in Riverview
Is your roof showing signs of wear or damage? Don’t wait for small issues to become major problems. Contact DryFL Construction Group today to schedule a free roof inspection. Whether you need a roof installation in Riverview, or repairs, our team has you covered.
Our experienced professionals will perform a comprehensive inspection of your residential or commercial roof, pinpoint any concerns, and provide a detailed report along with a fair estimate for any necessary work.
Why risk your home’s safety? Trust Cody Cannon Roofing LLC, to work with the leading roofers of Riverview, to deliver top-quality roofing services. Call us today and give your roof the care it deserves!
