Top 5 things people miss with getting a new roof.
sites • April 13, 2025
Replacing your roof is a major investment, and overlooking key details can lead to costly problems down the road. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage or just upgrading an old roof, here are the top 5 things homeowners often miss—and how to avoid them.
1. Not Checking the Contractor’s Insurance & Licensing
Many homeowners hire the cheapest bidder without verifying:
✅ General Liability Insurance – Covers damage to your property.
✅ Workers’ Comp – Protects you if a worker gets injured on-site.
✅ Proper Licensing – Required in most states for roofing work.
Why it matters:
Uninsured contractors can leave you liable for accidents.
Fly-by-night companies may disappear if issues arise.
Pro Tip: Ask for proof of insurance and check online reviews or the BBB.
2. Ignoring the Underlayment (The Hidden Shield)
Most people focus on shingles, but the underlayment is just as critical.
Cheap underlayment can lead to leaks and premature wear.
Synthetic underlayment (vs. felt) offers better water resistance.
Why it matters:
A high-quality underlayment adds extra protection against storms and ice dams.
Pro Tip: Ask your roofer what type they use—don’t settle for the cheapest option.
3. Skipping Proper Ventilation (A Silent Roof Killer)
A roof isn’t just shingles—it’s a system that needs airflow.
Poor ventilation causes:
Heat buildup (shortens roof life).
Ice dams in winter.
Higher energy bills (attic traps hot/cold air).
Why it matters:
Proper venting extends your roof’s lifespan by 5–10+ years.
Pro Tip: Ask about ridge vents, soffit vents, or powered fans if needed.
4. Forgetting About Drip Edge & Flashing
These small components prevent water intrusion at vulnerable spots:
Drip edge directs water away from fascia (prevents rot).
Flashing seals around chimneys, skylights, and vents.
Why it matters:
Missing or poorly installed flashing is a leading cause of leaks.
Pro Tip: Inspect these areas before the job is finished.
5. Not Getting a Detailed Warranty
Not all warranties are equal!
Manufacturer warranty (covers material defects).
Workmanship warranty (covers installation errors).
Why it matters:
Some contractors offer only 1–2 years of labor coverage (too short).
High-end shingles often come with 25–50 year warranties—but only if installed correctly.
Pro Tip: Get warranties in writing and understand the fine print.
Final Thoughts
A new roof is a long-term investment—don’t cut corners! Always:
✔ Hire a reputable, insured contractor.
✔ Insist on quality underlayment & ventilation.
✔ Double-check flashing & drip edge.
✔ Secure strong warranties.
Need a roof inspection? [Contact us today!]
Would you like a checklist version for homeowners to use when vetting roofers? Let me know!
Winter Was Brutal . Time for Your Home's Glow-Up. Let's be real - your home just survived another DMV winter, which means it endured: ✅ Temperature whiplash (70° on Tuesday, snowing by Friday) ✅ Pollen Armageddon (that thick yellow blanket coating everything) ✅ Wind gusts that tested your siding's commitment to staying put ✅ Potholes deep enough to lose a Mini Cooper in But fear not! With this funny-but-actually-helpful checklist, you'll have your home looking fresher than cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. And if any task seems too intense? That's what we're here for! 1. Gutters: Evict Those Leaf Squatters & Their Friends The Problem: Your gutters are running a full-service Airbnb for leaves, twigs, and probably a family of chipmunks. What to Do: Suit up (this job is messy) Scoop out the gunk (gloves recommended unless you like nature under your nails) Flush with a hose to test drainage Check for sagging or leaks Pro Tip: Install gutter guards now and thank yourself later when all your neighbors are cleaning theirs again in fall. When to Call Us: If your gutters are pulling away from the house or you spot rust/rot. 2. Siding: Remove the Pollen Couture Collection The Problem: Your home looks like it's been dusted with radioactive powdered cheese. Spring Cleaning Steps: Gentle wash with garden hose and soft brush For vinyl: Use a mild cleaner (no pressure washers - they can damage!) Inspect for cracks, warping, or loose panels DMV Reality Check: If your siding has more cracks than I-495 during rush hour, it might be time for an upgrade. 3. Roof Inspection: Spot Winter's Damage Before It Spots You The Problem: Your roof took a beating from ice, wind, and possibly a frisbee golf incident. DIY Check-Up: Binoculars are your friend (no need to channel your inner Spider-Man) Look for: Missing or curling shingles Dark stains (potential leaks) Flashing that's come loose Any suspicious animal activity (raccoons are terrible tenants) When to Panic: If you see daylight through your attic boards or your ceiling looks like a watercolor painting. 4. Windows & Doors: Stop the Draft Drama The Problem: That chilly breeze isn't "ambiance" - it's your heating bill screaming for help. Energy Efficiency Boost: Feel for drafts (a lit candle helps spot air leaks) Replace worn weatherstripping Re-caulk around frames Clean tracks and lubricate moving parts Fun Fact: Properly sealed windows can save you 10-20% on energy bills. That's a lot of Starbucks! 5. Deck Rescue: From Splinterville to Staycation Central The Problem: Your deck looks like it's been through a lumberjack competition. Pre-Summer TLC: Sweep away winter debris Check for loose boards or protruding nails Give it a good cleaning Apply fresh sealant if needed DMV Pro Tip: Wait for consistent 50°+ nights before sealing - otherwise it won't cure properly. 6. Masonry & Hardscaping: Fix the Winter Wounds The Problem: Your walkways and walls developed more cracks than a DMV sidewalk. Check For: Crumbling mortar Heaved or uneven pavers Spalling (flaking) bricks Quick Fixes: Power wash (carefully!) Re-sand paver joints Mark any areas needing professional repair 7. Landscaping: Tame the Jungle The Problem: Your bushes are plotting to swallow the house whole. Spring Cleanup: Trim branches back from siding and roof (6" minimum) Refresh mulch beds (3" deep max) Redirect downspouts away from foundation Remove dead plants/limbs Warning: Ivy might look charming, but it's basically nature's wrecking ball for your siding. 8. Outdoor Plumbing: Avoid Surprise Water Features The Problem: That burst pipe last year wasn't the "outdoor shower feature" you wanted. Preventative Steps: Test all outdoor faucets Check for leaks at connections Insulate exposed pipes Drain and store hoses until freeze risk passes 9. Driveway & Walkways: Fill Those DMV-Special Potholes The Problem: Your driveway has more dips than a Six Flags rollercoaster. Quick Fixes: Fill small cracks with sealant Patch asphalt areas Note any major issues for professional repair 10. The Final Touch: Curb Appeal Check Stand across the street and assess: Does your house number need refreshing? Are light fixtures working? Does the front door need a wash or new paint? 🎉 Congratulations! Your Home is Now Spring-Ready (Or at least ready enough that the neighbors will stop side-eyeing your property.) Remember: This list might seem long, but tackling a few items each weekend makes it manageable. And for anything that feels overwhelming..
The first thing you see when you arrive at a hotel is often the place you're least likely to spend your time. Nevertheless, it matters.