A shingle roof is only as good as its installation. Skip a step the shingle maker requires, and the roof can look bad, leak, or wear out early. Here are three shingle installation mistakes we see from inexperienced installers, and that we make sure not to make.
Skipping starter shingles
Starter shingles go along the eaves and rakes, under the first row. They help seal the edge against wind and water. Some installers skip them and nail the first row straight onto the edge. That leaves gaps where water can run through to the roof deck.
Nailing wrong
Shingle makers and local codes say how many nails each shingle needs and where they go. Too few, too many, or nails in the wrong place can let wind lift the shingles. That lets water into the layers below and raises the risk of shingles blowing off.
Uneven rows
Each row of shingles is offset from the one below, like bricks in a wall. If a row sits too high or too low, the roof looks off. Worse, the shingles may not seal well against wind and rain.
How to avoid shingle installation mistakes
- Do you follow the shingle maker’s installation instructions?
- Are you certified by the shingle maker?
- What workmanship warranty do you give?
Roof Recovery is an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred and GAF Certified contractor, licensed and insured. Residential workmanship warranties run from 5 years up to lifetime, and new roofs come with a lifetime warranty backed by Owens Corning. Most shingle replacements take up to about five days. Learn more about roof replacement and our shingle roof repair work.
Related: 2027 roof replacement cost guide · Why choose a complete tear-off · Roof cost calculator
Planning a new shingle roof? We’ll inspect your roof for free, take photos, and give you a written quote the same day. Call (916) 678-9786 or request a free estimate.
