Quick Tips: What To Check After Roofers Installed New Roof?

Introduction

A new roof is a significant investment that adds value, protection, and aesthetic appeal to your home. Once the roofers complete the job, it’s essential to verify that everything has been done correctly to ensure safety, durability, and long-term performance of your new roof.

By following a detailed checklist, you can identify any potential issues early and maximize the lifespan of your roofing system. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide on what to check after a roof installation to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and durability.

Why an Inspection is Necessary after Roofers have Installed a New Roof?

Inspecting your roof after installation is a critical step to ensure the job has been done correctly and your investment is protected. Here’s why a post-installation inspection is so important:

Verify Quality of Workmanship

An inspection helps confirm that the roofers have adhered to industry standards and best practices. By checking for proper shingle alignment, flashing installation, and the absence of exposed nails, you can ensure your roof is built to withstand various weather conditions.

Identify Potential Issues Early

Even with professional roofing companies, minor issues like loose shingles, poorly applied sealants, or gaps around chimneys can arise. Catching these problems early prevents them from escalating into costly repairs down the line.

Ensure Structural Integrity

A thorough inspection, especially of the attic and roof deck, verifies there are no leaks, cracks, or weak spots. It ensures the roof’s structure can handle external elements like heavy rain, snow, or high winds.

Protect Your Warranty

Many roofing warranties require proper installation to remain valid. By inspecting your roof, you can ensure all warranty requirements are met, protecting you in case of future material defects or workmanship errors.

Confirm Proper Ventilation

Good attic ventilation prevents moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mold growth and extending the life of your roof. Checking the ventilation system ensures your home remains energy-efficient and damage-free.

Peace of Mind

A new roof is a major investment, and a detailed inspection provides the reassurance that your home is safe, secure, and ready to handle the elements.

Conducting an inspection, whether by yourself or with a professional roofing contractor, is a proactive step toward ensuring the durability and performance of your new roof.

Post-Installation Checklist: What To Check After Roofers Installed New Roof​?

Ensuring your new roof is installed correctly is essential for its longevity and performance. A detailed post-installation checklist helps identify any potential issues early, giving you the peace of mind and protecting your investment. From inspecting the roof’s appearance to reviewing warranties, here’s what you need to check after the job is done:

1. Post-Installation Clean-Up

Once the roofing project is finished, the first step is ensuring the property is free from debris, nails, and other construction waste. Post-installation clean-up isn’t just about appearances—it’s a safety measure for you, your family, and your pets.

What to Inspect

• Walk around your yard, driveway, and property to check for leftover nails, shingles, or packaging materials.
• Look for hidden debris near gutters, flower beds, or patios that might be overlooked during the clean-up.

Professional roofing crews usually use specialized tools like handheld or roller magnets to collect stray nails, but it’s worth requesting a second sweep if you find leftover debris. A clean property not only enhances safety but also reflects the contractor’s professionalism.

3. Inspecting Flashing and Sealants

Flashing and sealants play a critical role in keeping your roof watertight and free from leaks. After installation, checking these areas is essential for long-term performance.

What to Inspect:

• Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights should be securely attached with no gaps.
• Sealants used on penetrations and joints should be smooth, even, and properly applied.
• Ensure there are no visible cracks or areas where water might seep through.

Properly installed flashing and sealants are vital to preventing water damage and maintaining the roof’s integrity.

4. Inspect the Roof’s Interior

Don’t forget to inspect the interior of your home, especially the attic. Internal checks are as important as external ones for identifying hidden issues that may not be immediately visible.

What to Look For:

• Water stains or damp spots on attic walls or ceilings, which could indicate roof leaks.
• Visible sunlight peeking through gaps in the roof deck, signaling installation issues.
• Signs of rust, mold, or mildew caused by poor ventilation or excess moisture.

Interior inspections help identify small problems early, saving you from costly repairs later. Be vigilant and take action promptly if you notice any warning signs.

5. Verify Proper Ventilation

A well-installed roof includes a proper ventilation system that regulates attic temperature and moisture levels. Poor ventilation can cause heat buildup, mold growth, or ice dams, all of which can shorten your roof’s lifespan.

How to Check Ventilation:

• Look for vents along the roofline and within the attic space. Ensure they are unobstructed by insulation or debris.
• Feel for airflow in the attic. Consistent airflow indicates the vents are functioning correctly.
• Check for moisture buildup or extreme temperature variations in the attic.

Adequate ventilation enhances your roof’s durability, reduces energy costs, and prevents issues like mold or structural damage.

6. Review the Warranty and Documentation

Your roof warranty is a vital safeguard against defects or installation errors. Ensuring the warranty terms are clear and properly registered is essential to protect your investment.

What to Do:

• Confirm you’ve received a copy of the warranty and understand its coverage, including duration and exclusions.
• Ensure the contractor has registered the warranty with the manufacturer. Follow up if you haven’t received confirmation within 60 days.
• Differentiate between material warranties and workmanship warranties, and know what steps to take to maintain coverage.

Having your warranty in order provides peace of mind and ensures you’re covered in case of any future issues.

7. Conduct a Final Walkthrough with Your Contractor

Before making the final payment, schedule a walkthrough with your project manager to address any concerns and verify the quality of the work.

Final Walkthrough Checklist:

• Check for proper shingle installation, including alignment and adhesion.
• Verify that flashing and sealants are correctly applied around roof penetrations like vent pipes and chimneys.
• Confirm gutters and drip edges are securely installed and functioning.

A final walkthrough ensures your satisfaction with the project and provides an opportunity to resolve any outstanding issues before payment.

8. Observe the Roof During the First Rainfall

The first rainfall after a new roof installation offers a natural way to test its performance. Observing how the roof handles water runoff can reveal potential problems.

What to Monitor:

• Ensure water flows smoothly through gutters and downspouts without pooling near the foundation.
• Check for leaks in the attic or visible drips inside the home.
• Inspect areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents for water intrusion.

Regular Maintenance Tips for Your Newly Installed Roof

Proper maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of your newly installed roof. By following these regular maintenance practices, you can protect your investment and ensure your roof remains in top condition:

• Inspect After Severe Weather: Check for visible damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, after storms, hail, or high winds. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
• Clean the Gutters: Keep gutters free of leaves, debris, and dirt to ensure proper water drainage. Blocked gutters can lead to water pooling, which can damage the roof and surrounding structures.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Cut back tree branches that hang over your roof to minimize the risk of debris accumulation, falling branches, or damage during storms.
• Remove Moss and Algae: Regularly clean moss, algae, or lichen growth to prevent moisture retention, which can weaken your roof and reduce its lifespan. Use a roof-safe cleaning solution for this purpose.
• Check Flashing and Sealants: Inspect flashing and sealants around chimneys, vents, and skylights for cracks or wear. Proper sealing prevents water intrusion and protects the structural integrity of your roof.
• Schedule Bi-annual Inspections: Conduct professional roof inspections at least twice a year. Roofing experts can identify potential issues early, such as loose shingles, signs of leaks, or structural concerns.
• Monitor Attic Ventilation: Proper ventilation reduces heat and moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth or shingle deterioration. Ensure your attic ventilation system is working effectively.
• Keep Your Roof Clean: Clear your roof of debris, leaves, or dirt buildup. Regular cleaning prevents moisture retention and helps maintain your roof’s appearance and functionality.

By adhering to these regular maintenance tips, you can ensure your newly installed roof stays in excellent condition, saving you time and money on repairs while extending its lifespan.

Conclusion

A new roof is a significant investment that not only enhances your home’s appearance but also protects your property from the elements. Taking the necessary steps after installation is essential to ensure your roof is installed correctly, performs efficiently, and lasts for years to come. A thorough post-installation inspection and routine maintenance are key to safeguarding this investment and avoiding costly repairs down the line.