I see this all the time—premium shingles, high-end underlayment, and then you get up there after a storm and it’s the same old story: nails too high, flashing not lapped right, or vent boots that were never sealed properly. Materials only go so far if the install’s not up to par. I’ve inspected roofs where the difference between a dry attic and a soaked ceiling came down to a handful of missed nails or a shortcut around a chimney.
Nail patterns are a big one. I can’t count how many times I’ve found shingles with just three nails instead of four or five, especially near the edges. That’s usually where the wind gets under and starts peeling things back. Flashing is another weak point—especially step flashing around sidewalls and chimneys. If it’s not layered right or gets caulked in instead of left to move, water finds its way in sooner or later.
Microclimates are wild. I’m in central Florida, and I’ve seen two houses across the street from each other—one with barely a scratch after a hurricane, the other missing half its ridge cap. Sometimes it’s tree cover, sometimes it’s just the way the wind whips down a street. Makes it tough to predict.
On maintenance, I’ll say this: regular inspections do catch stuff before it becomes a problem, but most folks don’t bother unless there’s already a leak or visible damage. I’ve had clients who do annual roof checks—usually after pollen season or before hurricane season—and they tend to have fewer surprises. Catching cracked vent boots or loose flashing early can save a lot of headache. But yeah, most people wait until water’s dripping through the ceiling before they call anyone.
One thing I wish more homeowners realized: even “lifetime” roofs need eyes on them every year or two, especially in storm-prone areas. It’s not glamorous, but it beats dealing with moldy insulation or rotten decking down the line.
Materials only go so far if the install’s not up to par.
That’s the truth. I had my roof redone a few years back (asphalt, 6/12 pitch, Gulf Coast) and even after picking the “best” materials, I still crawled up there myself to check nailing and flashing. Found two spots where the step flashing was basically just sitting there—no overlap at all. Installer swore it was fine until I showed him water stains in the attic. Sometimes it feels like luck, but really it’s those little details and a bit of paranoia that keep things dry... Maintenance is boring, but so is replacing drywall.
Funny how “best materials” can still end up leaking if the details get missed. Did you notice any other shortcuts, like with the underlayment or starter shingles? I always wonder how many folks actually check their own roofs after a job’s done...
I always wonder how many folks actually check their own roofs after a job’s done...
- Seen it too many times—folks trust the “premium” label but don’t look at the details.
- Last year, after a big storm, I found a brand-new roof missing half its starter shingles. Looked fine from the ground, but water got in at the eaves.
- Underlayment shortcuts are common. Some crews use felt instead of synthetic to save time or cost, even if the contract says otherwise.
- I always tell people: walk your roof (carefully) or at least check from a ladder. You’d be surprised what gets missed, especially after storms.
Underlayment shortcuts are common. Some crews use felt instead of synthetic to save time or cost, even if the contract says otherwise.
That’s a big one—most folks never see what’s under the shingles, so it’s easy for corners to get cut. I’ve seen “premium” roofs where the only thing premium was the price tag. After hurricanes, I always check for missing starter strips and loose ridge caps. Even if your roof survived, it’s worth poking around for lifted edges or exposed nails. Sometimes luck is all that kept water out...
