7 Signs That Your Roofer Did a Good Job

It’s no secret that winters in Maine can get quite brutal, with howling winds, driving snow, and freezing rain. In a region like this, roofing is your Portland home’s ultimate protector. Investing in a high-quality one is the best way to keep your family and property safe from the elements. 

Still, a roof is only as good as its installation. Even if the materials are first-class, improper setup can lead to costly repairs, structural damage, and other long-term issues. But, how do you find out if the professionals did a good job when installing your roof? Read on to learn about some telltale signs!

How do I know if my roof was installed properly?

So, the project is finished, the crew has packed up, and from the street, your new roof looks fantastic. But, as you probably know, a truly solid new system does more than just look good. There’s a lot happening up there that you can’t really see from the ground. 

Now, you’re probably wondering: how do I know if my roofer did a good job? Luckily, there are some key indicators of the quality of their work. If you want to make sure your new system is as solid as it looks, here’s what you should check for:

1. Precise shingle alignment

The easiest and the most obvious way to answer the question of ‘how do you tell if a roof is good or bad?’ is to take a careful look at the shingles. If they’re neatly aligned, it’s definitely a good sign. Properly aligned shingles look much better, but more importantly, they ensure effective water drainage and offer long-lasting protection. 

Aside from being unsightly, uneven or misaligned shingles can weaken the integrity of the whole structure and significantly increase its vulnerability to wind, rain, and snow. Plus, uneven rows, gaps, or visible nails are a pretty clear sign of poor workmanship. If you’re not sure how to spot this, you can take a closer look at the edges and patterns to check for consistency.

2. No visible leaks or moisture issues

A well-installed roof should keep your home entirely dry, even during heavy rain or snow. If your area has recently seen some rain or snowy days, go and check your attic and ceilings for signs of leaks or water stains. If there’s any unusual dampness or discoloration, it could mean that water is seeping through the structure.

In most cases, however, even if there are issues with weak spots that may potentially leak, you won’t be able to spot them so close to installation. But a reputable professional absolutely can! If you suspect that the work wasn’t done up to the standard you expected, get in touch with an expert as soon as possible and allow them to verify whether you have a reason to worry.

3. Flashing is securely installed

Features such as chimneys, skylights, and vents are necessary, but in the context of roofing, they are considered target spots for easy water penetration. To prevent this, professionals install flashing. This is a metal material placed around these features to secure those potentially weaker points on the surface.

So, how do you tell that a rogue roofer has been cutting corners during the installation? By the quality of flashing! If the flashing appears crooked, rusted, or poorly attached, it could be a weak point for water leaks. And, as you know, leaks can easily lead to much bigger, even structural issues if you don’t react quickly.

4. All edges are properly finished

The edges of your roof, those seemingly insignificant borders where the roof plane meets the open sky, are actually critical areas. They face the full brunt of wind and rain, so they’re actually highly susceptible to damage and leaks. Qualified professionals will pay close attention to these vulnerable zones and make sure to finish them properly.

Examine the edges closely. They should be clean, straight, and consistent, with no loose or curling shingles and no signs of the underlayment peeking through. Edges are your roof’s first line of defense and play a key role in its long-term integrity. Plus, well-finished edges look much more visually appealing and give your home exteriors a polished look.

5. Thorough cleanup after installation

A truly professional contractor understands that the job isn’t finished until the cleanup is complete. You can expect them to leave your property free of any roofing debris, nails, or discarded materials. A thorough cleanup shows the contractor’s professionalism and respect for your home, but more importantly, it ensures the safety of your family – and pets. 

Stray nails and sharp debris can pose significant hazards, especially for small children and animals who may be unaware of the dangers. A meticulous cleanup is a clear sign that your roofer is dedicated to safety, takes pride in their work, and values your satisfaction.

6. Seamless transitions to other structures

Homes with unique architectural features, additions, or a mix of styles present a special challenge for roofers. So, what does a bad roofing job look like in this case? How do you know if the problem was in the quality and precision of work and not just the expected result? A skilled specialist will know how to seamlessly blend the new and old and create a cohesive, stunning final product no matter how unique the structure is.

If your property has areas where the new structure meets older sections or different rooflines, the transitions should be smooth and natural. There should be no noticeable gaps or mismatches in lines. It’s about the looks, but also about the long-term integrity and weather-resistance too.

7. Warranties and documentation are provided

All reputable contractors stand behind their work with solid warranties. It’s best to discuss this before choosing a particular roofing company, but also make sure to ask about warranties once the work is complete. A quality roofer will gladly answer all your questions, provide warranties for both materials and labor, and walk you through them after the work is done.

Don’t hesitate to request copies of all documentation, including proof of purchase for materials and any labor guarantees. These documents are important for potential claims but are also valuable records if you decide to sell your home in the future. If your contractor seems dismissive, hesitant to discuss the topic, or refuses to provide these documents, take it as a serious red flag.

Who provides top-quality roof installation in Portland & nearby areas?

If you need a reputable contractor with a proven track record, look no further than Horch Roofing. Known for our attention to detail and commitment to quality, we deliver stunning solutions tailored to Maine’s challenging climate.

Our services include durable asphalt shingles, standing-seam metal, EPDM rubber roofing, seamless gutters, and expert repair and maintenance to keep your new structure in excellent condition year-round.

Whether your home is near Deering Oaks Park or elsewhere in Portland or beyond, we’ve got you covered with reliable craftsmanship and exceptional service. Contact us today to make sure your roof is in the best possible hands!