Replacing a shingle roof is a major investment, and in Northeastern Pennsylvania, proper installation matters just as much as the materials themselves. At 570 New Roof, we inspect and replace shingle roofs across NEPA every day—and we see the same installation mistakes over and over again. These issues often don’t show up right away, but they can shorten the life of a roof, lead to leaks, and cost homeowners thousands in repairs.
Here are some of the most common mistakes we see in shingle roof installations on homes in NEPA.
1. Improper Nailing Patterns
Shingles are designed to be nailed in very specific locations and quantities. When nails are placed too high, too low, or too few are used, shingles can loosen, lift, or blow off during high winds—a common problem in NEPA. Overdriven nails can cut into shingles, while underdriven nails prevent proper sealing. Correct nailing patterns are critical for wind resistance, long-term durability, and manufacturer warranty compliance.
2. Poor or Inadequate Ventilation
Roof ventilation is one of the most misunderstood parts of roofing. Without proper intake and exhaust ventilation, heat and moisture build up in the attic. In NEPA, this can cause ice dams in winter, shingle deterioration in summer, and higher energy bills year-round. We often see roofs replaced without addressing ventilation at all, which significantly shortens shingle lifespan—even on brand-new installations.
3. Reusing Old or Damaged Flashing
Flashing protects the most vulnerable areas of a roof—around chimneys, valleys, vents, and walls. Reusing old flashing may save time upfront, but it often leads to leaks later. Flashing can crack, corrode, or warp over time, and once it fails, water intrusion follows. At 570 New Roof, we believe flashing should be inspected carefully and replaced when needed during a shingle roof replacement.
4. Improper or Missing Underlayment
Underlayment is the hidden protective layer beneath shingles, and it plays a huge role in moisture protection. We commonly see underlayment installed incorrectly, overlapped improperly, or skipped in critical areas like valleys and eaves. In NEPA’s freeze-thaw climate, proper underlayment and ice-and-water shield installation are essential to prevent leaks caused by snow melt and ice dams.
5. Ignoring Roof Deck Issues
A new shingle roof installed over damaged or rotting roof decking is a recipe for future problems. Soft spots, moisture damage, and sagging decking should always be addressed before shingles go on. Skipping this step can lead to uneven shingles, structural issues, and premature failure.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Shingle roofs don’t fail overnight—they fail because of small mistakes made during installation. At 570 New Roof, we focus on doing things the right way, from proper preparation to precise installation techniques that stand up to NEPA’s weather.
If you’re considering a shingle roof replacement or have concerns about how your current roof was installed, a professional inspection can make all the difference. A properly installed roof doesn’t just look better—it lasts longer and protects your home the way it should.
Contact 570 New Roof
For professional shingle roof replacement and inspections in Northeastern Pennsylvania:
Website: www.570newroof.com
Phone: (570) 332-1223
Email: office@theroofrepairguys.com
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