5 pitfalls to avoid in the roofing industry

By Corey Mann, Leap.

Learn how to avoid these common issues during roof installations.

Challenges and problems can pop up at any point in the roofing process and they can vary from job to job. Some things, like weather, are out of your control, but there are some that you can prepare your team to handle. Not only does this help you avoid complications that slow down the process and save you money, but it also protects your company’s reputation and reduces the risk of violating warranties.  

These challenges can vary from material issues to errors in execution with consequences to both the roof’s performance and appearance. Keep reading to learn more about these common issues and how Leap’s software can help you stay ahead of the game and prepared for whatever the job might throw at you.

The challenges of installing new roofs  

Installing a roof is a complex process. Each step must be completed with precision. Contractors need to manage various tasks, materials and timelines. This leaves little room for error. Even minor mistakes can lead to major issues later.  

Weather conditions are one of the biggest challenges. Rain, wind and extreme temperatures can disrupt the installation process. For example, cold weather makes shingles brittle, while excessive heat softens them. Timing installations around unpredictable weather requires careful planning.  

Material quality is another concern. Using subpar materials or encountering damaged products increases the risk of failure. Additionally, specific roof designs, such as steep slopes or complex valleys, add to the difficulty. These require specialized techniques and tools.  

Finally, miscommunication between team members or with the homeowner creates problems. Without clear instructions, contractors may overlook critical details. This can lead to rework and wasted resources.  

The five biggest roofing installation problems  

Working as a roofer is no easy task. In general, it’s a difficult trade that requires lengthy training, focus and experience. In addition, safety is paramount as roofers work in difficult conditions on top of buildings and homes.  

However, like most industries, it’s common for things to go wrong or mistakes to happen. Specifically, the most common roofing installation problems include:  

• Missing specific components  
• Issues with shingles  
• Flashing mistakes  
• Valley installation errors  
• Improper gutter installation  

All roofers have dealt with some level of problems relating to the issues above. However, some companies are more prepared to handle them quickly. This is because they have the right roofing software and processes in place.  

By addressing these challenges head-on, roofers can complete jobs efficiently. Next, we’ll examine the top five roofing installation problems in more detail.  

1 - Missing specific components  

Missing components are a common issue in roofing installations. Each roof system relies on specific parts to function correctly. For example, underlayment, ridge vents and drip edges play essential roles. Skipping these components compromises the roof’s integrity and lifespan.  

Underlayment provides a protective barrier between the decking and shingles. Without it, moisture can penetrate the roof. This leads to water damage and mold growth. Similarly, ridge vents ensure proper attic ventilation. If omitted, heat and moisture can build up, causing structural issues.  

Drip edges prevent water from seeping into the fascia and soffit. Missing this component allows water to damage the roof’s edges.

Contractors should double-check their material lists before starting a project. Overall, clear communication with suppliers also reduces the risk of missing items.  

2 - Shingles issues  

Shingles are the most visible part of a roof. Problems with shingles often result from improper installation. Incorrect nailing patterns, misaligned rows or insufficient sealing can cause serious issues.  

Improper nailing is one of the most frequent roofing installation problems. Nails placed too high or too low on the shingle weaken its hold. This increases the risk of shingles blowing off during storms. Misaligned rows not only look unprofessional but also expose the roof to leaks.  

Another common issue is failing to seal shingles properly. Without adequate sealing, water can seep underneath. This leads to damage over time. Contractors must follow manufacturer guidelines for nailing and sealing to prevent these problems.  

3 - Flashing mistakes  

Flashing protects vulnerable areas, such as chimneys, skylights and vents. Improper flashing installation is a major roofing issue. Poorly sealed flashing allows water to enter these critical points, causing leaks.  

One common mistake is using the wrong type of flashing material. For instance, aluminum flashing may corrode in certain environments.

Another issue is incorrect placement. Flashing must overlap shingles and create a watertight seal. When installed improperly, it fails to direct water away from the roof.  

To avoid flashing mistakes, contractors should use high-quality materials and follow best practices. Regular inspections during installation can help catch errors early. Furthermore, this ensures the roof remains watertight and durable.  

4 - Valley installation errors  

Valleys are the areas where two roof slopes meet. They are prone to leaks due to their design. Improper valley installation is a common problem that affects roof performance.  

One issue is failing to install an underlayment layer in the valley. This leaves the area exposed to water infiltration. Another mistake is using incorrect materials, such as standard shingles instead of valley-specific products. These may not withstand the additional water flow.  

Contractors should also pay attention to alignment. Misaligned materials create gaps that allow water to seep through. Proper training and attention to detail are key to avoiding valley installation errors. Using high-quality materials designed for valleys improves durability as well.  

5 - Improper gutter installation  

Gutters are essential for directing water away from the roof and foundation. Poor gutter installation can lead to significant issues. Incorrect slopes, loose fasteners and insufficient capacity are common problems.  

Gutters must have a slight slope to ensure proper drainage. An uneven slope causes water to pool, leading to overflow or leaks. Loose fasteners can cause gutters to sag or detach from the roofline. This compromises their functionality.  

One of the more common roofing installation problems is using gutters with insufficient capacity for the roof’s size. During heavy rain, undersized gutters may overflow, causing water damage. Contractors should carefully calculate gutter size and slope for each project.  

How Leap CRM supports project management for roofers  

Running a roofing business involves more than just installations. Administrative tasks, scheduling and customer communication take up valuable time. Leap CRM simplifies these processes, allowing roofers to focus on providing quality work.  

Leap CRM also integrates with other tools to streamline every stage of every job. For measurement tools to financing lenders and sales software, now you can win more jobs, create more accurate estimates and get paid faster than ever before.   

In general, this reduces errors and ensures everything runs smoothly. By using Leap CRM, you can spend less time on paperwork and more time perfecting your craft. That way you don’t have to face as many roofing installation problems that affect your bottom line.   

Original article and photo source: Leap