I get where you’re coming from, but I’d push back a bit—sometimes those “tiny” details are what save you down the line, especially with storm damage. Skipping over thorough sealing or flashing can mean water gets in, and then you’re dealing with rot or mold. But yeah, if the main venting is off, no amount of detail work will fix that... It’s about knowing which details actually matter for the long-term. I’ve seen folks spend big on fancy finishes but ignore drainage, and then wonder why their insurance claim gets denied after a storm. Prioritize the stuff that keeps water out first, then worry about the rest.
Prioritize the stuff that keeps water out first, then worry about the rest.
That hits home for me. First job I was on, we spent forever making the trim look perfect, but nobody double-checked the flashing around the skylights. Sure enough, first big rain, water everywhere. Got an earful from the boss and the client. Since then, I always look at where water could sneak in, even if it means going back over someone else’s work. Fancy finishes don’t mean much if you’re mopping up leaks later...
Fancy finishes don’t mean much if you’re mopping up leaks later...
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve seen budgets get blown wide open just fixing water intrusion that should’ve been caught early. It’s always tempting to focus on the visible stuff, but the “invisible” details like waterproofing end up costing way more if missed. I’ve had to justify change orders to owners because of missed flashing details—never a fun conversation.
Man, you nailed it—nobody ever brags about their waterproofing, but they sure remember when it fails. I’ve crawled through enough soggy crawlspaces to know that skipping the “boring” stuff like flashing is just asking for headaches. My rule of thumb: if you can’t see it, double-check it. Owners might grumble about the cost upfront, but it’s nothing compared to the drama of a leak behind a $10k tile wall.
- Seen too many bids get lowballed because folks skip over flashing, sealants, or proper underlayment.
- My take: if it’s hidden, it’s twice as important.
- Had a GC once push back on membrane spec—fast forward two years, and I’m back fixing moldy decking.
- Owners hate paying for “what-ifs,” but water finds every shortcut you take.
- I’d rather lose a bid than cut corners on waterproofing. The callbacks just aren’t worth it.
