Five Common Roofing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Roofing might seem simple from the outside—just shingles, nails, and maybe some flashing. But in reality, it’s a complex system designed to protect your home from Michigan’s unpredictable weather. One small mistake during installation or maintenance can lead to big problems down the road.

At Grand Rapids Roof Repair, we’ve seen it all. From bad installs to overlooked details, we’ve helped homeowners across Kent County fix costly roofing mistakes that could’ve been avoided. With decades of combined roofing experience, our team knows what works and what doesn’t. And if you’re ever unsure about your own roof, we offer FREE estimates and financing is always an option we can help with!

Here are five of the most common roofing mistakes we see—and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Ventilation

It’s easy to overlook what you can’t see, and ventilation falls squarely into that category. Your roof needs proper airflow to regulate temperature and moisture in the attic. Without it, you risk mold, rotting wood, and ice dams in the winter.

Improper ventilation can also cause shingles to deteriorate faster because of trapped heat during summer months. If you notice high energy bills, musty smells in the attic, or uneven temperatures upstairs, it might be time to check your vents.

At Grand Rapids Roof Repair, we make sure every roofing system has balanced intake and exhaust ventilation to keep things dry, efficient, and long-lasting.

2. Reusing Old Flashing

Flashing is the thin metal that seals the areas around chimneys, vents, and roof valleys. It’s absolutely essential for preventing leaks. But some installers try to save time (and cut corners) by reusing old flashing during a roof replacement.

The problem? Old flashing often has hidden cracks, rust, or bends that prevent a tight seal. This creates weak points where water can easily find its way in. Whenever we install a new roof, we replace all flashing to ensure a secure, watertight system.

If your roof was recently replaced but still leaks near vents or your chimney, reused flashing could be the culprit.

3. Improper Shingle Installation

Installing shingles might look easy, but doing it right takes precision. Common shingle mistakes include misaligned rows, using too few nails, or nailing them in the wrong spot. Any of these errors can lead to shingles blowing off during a storm or water sneaking underneath during rain.

Michigan weather is tough enough on a roof without giving the elements an easy entry point. That’s why our team follows manufacturer specifications to the letter, ensuring every shingle is placed and secured exactly as it should be.

A poorly installed roof might look fine at first—but the problems usually show up after the first big storm.

4. Skipping the Ice and Water Shield

In colder climates like Grand Rapids, an ice and water shield is more than just a nice extra—it’s essential. This waterproof barrier is installed under the shingles along the eaves, valleys, and other vulnerable spots to protect against ice dams and melting snow.

Some contractors skip this step or use a minimal amount to save money. But without it, even a well-shingled roof can leak if ice builds up and water backs under the edges.

At Grand Rapids Roof Repair, we install a full ice and water shield system with every new roof. It’s a small investment that offers major protection during Michigan winters.

5. Ignoring Minor Repairs

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make? Ignoring small roof issues until they become big ones. A missing shingle or a tiny leak might not seem urgent, but those minor problems are often the start of much larger (and more expensive) damage.

Water can seep into your attic, damage insulation, rot decking, and eventually create mold or structural issues. By the time you see the signs inside your home, the damage may already be widespread.

Regular inspections and maintenance help catch these issues early. We always recommend checking your roof after major storms and scheduling a professional inspection at least every few years.

Prevent Mistakes With a Trusted Roofing Partner

The best way to avoid roofing mistakes? Hire experienced professionals who take pride in doing the job right. At Grand Rapids Roof Repair, we’ve built our reputation on quality workmanship, honest advice, and roofing systems that last.

We proudly serve all of Kent County and offer FREE estimates on roof repairs and replacements. If you’re worried about cost, financing is always an option we can help with. Whether you’re fixing a leak, replacing old shingles, or just want peace of mind about your roof’s condition, we’re here to help.

Visit Grand Rapids Roof Repair to learn more or schedule your inspection. Let’s make sure your roof is strong, secure, and mistake-free.