What to Check After Having a New Roof Installed

Congratulations! You've just had a new roof installed. It's a significant investment in your home. But your job isn't done yet. Now, you need to ensure the work meets your expectations. Knowing what to check after having a new roof installed ensures that your roof will protect your home for years to come.

Why Post-Installation Roofing Checks Matter

Even with the most skilled roofers, mistakes can occur. Materials can be faulty, and details can be overlooked during a large project. It's better to find a minor issue early and get it fixed under warranty than to have a major headache (and expense) down the road. 

For instance, if the roof decking material isn't nailed correctly, it can buckle, leading to unattractive bumps in your otherwise perfect roof. An improperly installed roof can also reduce your house's ability to hold up against the elements. Think about water damage from leaks or pest infestations due to gaps – all things you want to avoid if possible. 

Knowing what to check after having a new roof installed can help you identify any issues early on. Catching problems now can save you time and money in the future. It's about ensuring safety, quality, and longevity. Your roof should last for decades, and proper installation is key. So, don't skip this important step.

What to Check After Having a New Roof Installed

Wondering what to check after having a new roof installed? Here’s a checklist of what you can look into. Remember, safety first. Do not climb onto your roof unless you have the proper equipment and feel comfortable doing so.

Visual Inspection From the Ground

Start with an easy walk around your property. This helps you spot any immediate issues with your new roof. Look for anything out of place or signs of damage that need attention. Also, pay attention to the roofline. It should be straight. If anything looks off, contact your contractor immediately.

Well-Installed Shingles

Next, examine the shingles. The shingles should be evenly aligned. Misaligned shingles can cause leaks and other issues. Look for consistent spacing between the shingle columns. Also, check the cutouts on three-tab shingles. They should be vertical. If you notice any irregularities, bring them up with your contractor.

Proper Underlayment

The underlayment is a protective layer beneath the shingles that helps in winterizing your home. It shields your home from water and ice. Check if the contractor installed it correctly, especially if you believe it’s prone to ice dams. If it's missing or poorly installed, your roof may leak during the winter.

Proper Sheathing

The sheathing is the layer beneath the underlayment and shingles. Over time, sheathing can become loose. This can cause buckles and pops in your roof. Make sure the contractor secured the sheathing properly. If nails are popping out, it’s a sign of poor installation. This needs immediate attention.

Nails secure your roof. Poorly placed nails can lead to loose shingles. This makes your roof vulnerable to wind damage. Inspect the nails to ensure they are correctly set. They should not be exposed or at risk of causing leaks. If the contractor used a nail gun, make sure the nails are driven to the proper depth.

Minor Details

Don't overlook the small details. Check the drip edges. They should extend over the gutter, guiding water away from your home.

Another minor detail is flashing. Flashing prevents water leaks. Flashing should be installed around chimneys, skylights, and wall intersections. Some contractors may use tar or putty instead. This is not ideal. Flashing should be made of durable materials like aluminum or steel. 

Clean Job Site

A clean job site is a sign of professionalism. After the roof installation, good roofing contractors leave your property clean. Look for leftover materials, nails, or debris. Contractors often use magnets to pick up stray nails. If your yard is a mess, it reflects poorly on the contractor's attention to detail. Ensure the job site is clean before signing off on the project.

What to Expect After Installing a New Roof

After investing in a new roof and what to check after having a new roof installed, have a clear understanding of what to expect post-installation. These steps not only provide peace of mind but also contribute to the protection and preservation of your investment.

Final Inspection

After the roof is installed, a final inspection is necessary. This inspection ensures that all work is done correctly. The project manager should review every detail. They should check the alignment of shingles and the installation of flashing. 

They should also ensure that the gutters are clean and functioning properly. This final step gives you peace of mind that your roof is in top condition.

Warranty and Insurance

Don't forget about your warranty. Most roofing contractors, such as Murray Roofing, come with a warranty. Make sure your contractor provides you with the necessary documents. 

Register your warranty as soon as possible. This will protect you in case of defects or future issues. If you don't register, you may lose coverage. Keep all warranty information in a safe place for future reference. Don’t forget about roofing insurance as well.

Continued Maintenance

Your new roof is in place, but maintenance is ongoing. Regular inspections are necessary for roofs. Check your roof twice a year, especially after storms. Look for any signs of damage or wear. Cleaning gutters and trimming nearby trees are also important tasks. 

If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, hire a professional for roofing maintenance. Maintenance keeps your roof in good shape and extends its lifespan.

Get Your Free Roofing Inspection Today

Getting a new roof installed is a significant investment in your home. After installation, perform post-installation checks to ensure that the work meets your expectations. Knowing what to check after having a new roof installed ensures that your roof will be able to protect your home in the following years.

These checks are important because even with skilled roofers, mistakes can occur, and identifying and fixing minor issues early on can save time and money in the future.

At Murray Roofing, we understand the importance of a quality roof. That’s why we offer high-quality roofing services for your property. We have years of experience and a commitment to excellence. Whether you’re in Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island, Denver, or Houston, our team is ready to help. 

Don’t wait for problems to arise. Schedule your free inspection today and ensure your roof is in top condition. Your home deserves the best, and we’re here to deliver it.