Having a new roof installed is an exciting process. However, there may be instances when it has wavy-looking lines that don’t look great to the eye. While it’s worth noting that some level of unevenness can be expected after completion, excessive waviness or undulation usually stems from poor installation or other issues that need to be addressed.
In this blog post, residential roofing and home renovations contractor Ben’s Construction Inc. explains the possible causes why a roof can look wavy, as well as repair and prevention tips to avoid it from happening in the first place.
A residential roof that looks wavy can be caused by a variety of factors. Here’s an in-depth explanation of each one:
The number one reason why a new roof may look wavy is because of poor installation. This can happen for several reasons, including the overall roof design. If the rafters or trusses supporting it do not span the entire home evenly, the individual sections will have a different pitch, creating waves in some areas of the roof surface. Incorrectly nailed shingles can also be another cause. If nails are not properly fastened on each side of the roof, the shingles can become loose and create an undulating effect that was not there when newly installed.
A roof can also be wavy due to a few improper installation techniques. Take the roof underlayment, for example. This layer of material right under the shingles should protect your roof from wind-driven rain. However, if it’s not laid out well, there may be dips in some areas, causing it to look uneven from the ground. Another important roof component is the ridge cap, which covers the intersection between two roof planes and serves as an essential barrier against water intrusion. If it was not fastened or aligned securely, cut too short or spaced poorly, the roof may also appear uneven eventually, resulting in a wave-like appearance on the surface.
As with the underlayment and ridge cap, the flashing can help prevent water damage to your roof. The caulking applied to the flashing seams is key to keeping your roof waterproof. However, if the roof installer used the wrong type and size of caulk or incorrectly places it around the vents, skylights or chimneys, the resulting gaps may create a wavy appearance.
The decking or sheathing, which is the plywood or OSB installed on top of the roof’s rafters and trusses, can also play a role in whether or not the outer roof covering will look wavy following the installation. Proper decking nailing is a must to ensure there are no gaps between the boards. As such, they should nail down the decking properly and make sure there are no gaps between the boards. If your decking is improperly installed, it may need to be replaced to create a flat and even surface for your shingles.
The age of the roofing material plays a significant role in why a roof may look wavy. As the roofing material ages, it loses its structural integrity and begins to warp or buckle, causing the appearance of waves or dips. This can be especially true for asphalt shingles, which can deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements, temperature fluctuations, and other environmental factors. If the waviness is caused by age, it may be time to consider a replacement to ensure the safety and longevity of your home’s structure.
Investing in top-quality roofing material is the key to a long-lasting roofing system. Going for a cheaper, substandard product exposes the structure to further damage.
While many overlook its importance, attic ventilation helps keep the roof intact and in good condition. If the system doesn’t have enough vents for air to circulate, excess heat and moisture can build up inside the attic, resulting in a plethora of issues. As the heat from the attic and the sun overhead affecting the shingles, it will only be a matter of time before they begin to show signs of deterioration in the form of buckling, cupping, or warping.
Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, and hail, can cause the shingles to shift, leading to a wavy appearance. If you notice your roof looking wavy following a storm, it’s best to contact a professional roofing contractor right away. They will be able to inspect your roof and determine the appropriate course of action.
If you have a wavy roof, don’t panic! Most of these problems can be fixed with a few adjustments. If the waviness is caused by an incorrect installation process or poor-quality materials, hiring a roofing contractor to replace those components can help solve your problem. Properly-laid underlayment can help secure loose singles, and flashing should always be adequately caulked for protection.
While there are ways to repair a wavy roof, it’s also a good idea to take steps to prevent it from happening in the first place. We list a few tips to consider:
A wavy-looking roof can hurt your home’s curb appeal and lead to more costly issues, but it’s not the end of the world. With proper maintenance and repairs, a roof can return to its former glory. If you’re looking for the best contractor for the job, turn to Ben’s Construction Inc.! We are a GAF-certified roofing company serving the Massachusetts area since 1999. Count on our team of experienced roofers to provide top-notch roofing services that you’ll be happy to refer to a friend. We also provide siding and gutter installation services. Call us at (508) 962-2417, or fill out our online contact form to request a quote.
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