Top Worst Ideas for Protecting Your Roof: What to Avoid

Protecting your roof is crucial for maintaining your home’s structural integrity and value – and, even more importantly, for protecting your family and belongings. In Florida, where intense sun, heavy rains, and hurricane-force winds are common, proper roof care is even more critical.

However, not all roof protection methods are created equal. Some well-intentioned efforts can actually cause more harm than good, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. While the desire to save money or find quick fixes is understandable, certain approaches can backfire, causing long-term damage and voiding warranties.

Roof Protection Mistakes

Homeowners typically have good intentions when it comes to ensuring that the roof over their heads remains functional, but falling for roof protection myths can cause serious headaches – and expense – down the road.

Covering Your Roof with a Tarp as a Long-Term Solution

The first worst idea for protecting your roof is covering it with a tarp as a long-term solution. Floridians are all too familiar with the sight of tarps on roofs, particularly after a tropical storm or hurricane. While tarps can be a useful temporary solution, they are far from ideal for long-term use. Tarps may create a false sense of security by temporarily keeping water out, but they don’t address the underlying issues

Improperly installed tarps can allow water to collect, leading to additional damage. Additionally, prolonged sun exposure can cause tarps to deteriorate, leaving them ineffective.

DIY Repairs Without Proper Knowledge

The second worst idea for protecting your roof is DIY repair. While do-it-yourself projects can save money, roof repairs require specialized knowledge and skills. Common DIY mistakes include:

• Incorrect shingle replacement
• Flashing errors around chimneys or vents
• Using materials unsuitable for Florida’s climate

Professional roofers undergo extensive training and have experience dealing with various roofing issues. They understand local building codes and can ensure that repairs meet industry standards.

Pressure Washing Your Roof

The third worst idea for protecting your roof is pressure washing. While it might seem like an effective way to clean your roof, it can cause significant damage. High-pressure water can strip away protective granules from shingles, and forceful water can push moisture under shingles, leading to leaks and rot. Many manufacturers void warranties if pressure washing has been used.

Instead of pressure washing, opt for soft washing. This method uses low-pressure water combined with specialized cleaning solutions, offering a safer alternative for removing dirt, algae, and moss from roofs.

Applying Paint or Sealants Incorrectly

The fifth worst idea for protecting your roof is painting or sealing it. While this can help extend its lifespan, doing so without proper knowledge can lead to various issues.

Non-breathable Coatings

These can trap moisture, promoting mold and rot.

Over-application

Excessive sealant can prevent proper drainage and cause pooling.

Incorrect Products

Using the wrong type of paint or sealant can damage roofing materials.

Roof coatings and sealants can be effective when applied correctly, but they require careful selection and professional application. The wrong product or improper application can lead to premature roof failure.

Installing a New Roof Over an Old One

While it might seem cost-effective to install a new roof over an old one, this approach has several drawbacks:

• Added weight stress on your home’s structure
• Hidden problems like rot or damage can go undetected
• Reduced lifespan compared to a complete replacement

In general, complete removal of old roofing materials before installing a new roof is recommended to ensure proper installation and longevity. However, if you are considering roofing over an existing roof, be sure to consult with a reputable roofing company to ensure that you are making the best decision.

Using Expanding Foam as a Quick Fix for Leaks

Expanding foam might appear to be a simple solution for roof leaks, but it can create more problems than it solves. This approach can trap moisture, promoting rot and mold growth. It also makes future repairs difficult by obscuring the actual source of leaks. Some types of expanding foam are flammable, potentially increasing fire risks.

Using Substandard or Mismatched Materials

Cutting corners on roofing materials can lead to premature failure and increased repair costs. Mixing different shingle types may result in uneven wear, while using materials not rated for Florida’s weather can result in rapid deterioration. Prioritizing cost over quality often leads to shorter lifespans and less durability.

High-quality, properly rated materials can significantly increase a roof’s lifespan and performance, especially in Florida’s challenging climate.

Attempting to Waterproof from the Inside

Trying to stop leaks by sealing the attic or ceiling is ineffective and potentially harmful. This misdirected effort doesn’t address the actual source of leaks and can trap moisture inside the roof structure, leading to mold and rot. Internal sealing can also mask issues, allowing them to worsen unnoticed.

Incorrect Use of Roofing Nails

Improper nailing techniques can compromise the integrity of your roof. Common mistakes include using nails that are too short, not using enough nails, or placing nails incorrectly. These errors can lead to shingle blow-offs, leaks, and accelerated roof deterioration. Ensure that nails are properly sized and placed according to manufacturer guidelines.

The Worst Idea for Protecting Your Roof: Neglecting Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Neglecting regular roof inspections and maintenance is a passive approach that can lead to significant problems. Small issues can escalate into major problems if not caught early, and accumulated debris can retain moisture and damage roofing materials. Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of a roof.

It’s a good idea to perform inspections of your own roof on a regular basis, and also to schedule inspections annually with a professional roofer. It’s also wise to have an inspection after severe weather events like tropical storms, hurricanes, or hail storms.

Here’s a brief guide for inspecting your own roof:

1. Use binoculars to check for visible damage, like missing, curling, or damaged shingles. Pay close attention to the edge of the roof, around flashings, and near chimneys. Look for signs of wear and tear, granule loss, or any other visible damage.
2. Check for signs of water damage inside your home, such as water stains on ceilings or walls. Inspect the attic for any signs of water intrusion, such as damp insulation or water marks.
3. If you feel comfortable and your roofing material is safe to walk on, go on the roof to get a closer look. Remember to use proper safety precautions, as being on the roof is dangerous – even for professional roofers.
4. Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent debris buildup. Remove leaves, twigs, and any other debris that can clog gutters and impede water flow. This will help prevent water damage to your roof and the interior of your home.
5. Trim overhanging tree branches that can damage roofing materials or provide easy access for pests. Overhanging branches can scratch the roof surface and trap moisture, leading to potential damage. Additionally, they can provide easy access for pests like squirrels, raccoons, and birds. Regularly trimming these branches will help protect your roof from damage and prevent unwanted pests from accessing your home.

By staying proactive with your roof’s maintenance, you can save yourself from costly repairs later on.

Your Lakeland Roofers

At Stronghold Roofing & Solar, we understand the unique challenges and demands that Florida’s climate places on roofs. Our team of expert Lakeland roofers provides a full range of residential and commercial roofing services, so if you need roofing help in or near Lakeland, give us a call.

Ask about a free roof estimate!

FAQ’s – Roofing Myths and Facts