This is why you need to know how to spot a bad roofing job

As a homeowner, every decision you make about your home can either save or cost you money. And let’s face it, one of the biggest investments you’ll make is a new roof. So, wouldn’t it make sense to know what a successful roofing project looks like?

Sure, when it’s all said and done, you’ll likely see a beautiful new roof. But here’s the catch—looks can be deceiving. Sometimes, beneath that fresh exterior lies poor craftsmanship.

Now, don’t get us wrong—most roofing contractors here in Bakersfield, CA deliver excellent work. But there are always a few “fly by night” roofers who show up to make a quick buck. Scammers move from town to town and cut corners at every opportunity.  

That’s why it’s so important to educate yourself on the re-roofing process. Unfortunately, most homeowners aren’t equipped to spot the signs of a bad roofing job, and that’s where problems can begin.  

The good news? You don’t have to be a roofing expert to recognize poor workmanship. In this article, we’ll walk you through a few simple ways to ensure you’re working with a professional.

The appearance doesn’t look right

When our neighbors get a new roof, it’s hard not to admire it, right? And if our own roof is aged, it gets us thinking about the future cost of replacing it.

But what if the new roof doesn’t turn out how you envisioned it? If something feels off, it’s worth investigating.  

Start by checking the consistency of your shingles. Are they uniform in color and placement? If you notice mismatched shingles or ones that seem out of place, it’s a red flag, and you should bring it up with your contractor.  

In cases like this, getting a second opinion from someone you trust can help.  

Shingles that aren’t uniform could mean the roofer rushed through the job or skipped important steps. Even worse, it might indicate that the contractor didn’t order enough materials.

Watch out for these kinds of shortcuts. Dishonest roofers will give you an estimate for a full re-roof but cut corners by not purchasing all the materials needed to boost their profits. Don’t let these gimmicks slide—hold them accountable!  

New shingles easily blow away

If you’ve just replaced your roof and a storm comes through, losing a few shingles can be a warning sign of poor workmanship.  

Sure, severe storms can take a toll on any roof, but if your home is the only one on the block missing shingles, it’s time to dig deeper.  

After extreme weather, it’s smart to check the perimeter of your home to ensure everything is still intact.  

And let’s be clear—if you spot leaks after a re-roof, there’s definitely a defect. Contact your contractor immediately to get it fixed.  

Mistakes happen. Sometimes roofers rush and don’t use enough fasteners to properly secure the shingles.  

Experienced roofers know how many nails are required to hold a shingle in place, but shortcuts are all too common. And when high winds hit, improperly secured shingles can go flying.  

This is out of your control, but it’s helpful to understand why these issues occur. A professional roofer will take their time, ensuring every shingle, piece of flashing, and material is properly fastened to withstand the elements.  

No underlayment or poor-quality underlayment was installed

A roof is more than just shingles—it’s a system with multiple layers working together to protect your home.  

One of those critical layers is the underlayment, which sits on top of the wood deck and beneath the other roofing materials. Underlayment adds an essential layer of protection. If your roofer skips this step or uses subpar materials, your home becomes vulnerable to water damage.  

Don’t overlook this detail—ask your contractor about the underlayment they plan to use and ensure they’re using high-quality materials.

Recognize drip edge, flashing, and sealant problems

If you’re not familiar with roofing, spotting issues with drip edge, flashing, or sealant can be tricky. But asking the right questions and voicing concerns can make all the difference.  

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Foot traffic and warranties  

During a re-roof, workers are moving around constantly, and sometimes that leads to accidental damage. Keep an eye out for excessive footprints, leftover debris, or any other signs of carelessness. A good roofing crew will clean up daily and notify you immediately if something gets damaged.  

Now, let’s talk about warranties...

‍Even with the best tips, nothing beats the peace of mind a solid warranty provides.  

Be sure to understand what’s included—and more importantly, what’s not. Ask specific questions about exclusions and whether regular maintenance is required to keep the warranty valid.  

Keep in mind that craftsmanship and manufacturer warranties are separate. The manufacturer warranty covers your shingles, while the craftsmanship warranty comes from the contractor.  

If you’ve chosen a specific shingle, make sure your contractor is a certified installer for that brand. Any reputable roofing company should back their work with at least a 10-year warranty.  

Roof replacements are a big investment, and mistakes can happen during the process. A good warranty ensures your investment is protected and saves you from unexpected costs later.  

If you’re planning a roofing project, these tips will help you feel more confident managing the process. Got questions or ready to book a consultation? Reach out to us—we’re happy to inspect your roof, answer your questions, and provide a detailed, no-hidden-cost quote.