Felan from Tennessee asked:
I'm concerned my roofer cut some corners when they replaced our roof in July 2022. My husband found debris in the attic and some pieces of wood that appear to have come from our decking… I wanted to submit a few images to ask if they reflect poor installation. This is just one image, though I would like to add more. But I thought I'd start with this image first. I wanted to ask a third party about this before going to my roofer for concerns that I might hear "it's not my fault." I wanted to be ready with solid information so my concerns will be taken seriously and I won't be viewed as a fool.
John Kenney from Cotney Consulting Group says:
Marty Stout from Go Roof Tune Up says:
The debris you found in your attic is quite likely a very normal occurring condition. As the old roof was being removed debris falls between the sheathing boards, decking, and lands in the attic. The photo you sent shows the counter flashing at the chimney. From the photo, it looks like it could have been installed better. It should be tight against the chimney at the top of the flashing. Normally the ½” lip is inserted into the mortar joint and then sealed with caulking, and the corners should be sealed and tight. We would suggest that you ask your roofer to revisit that and maybe he will be able to confirm for you that everything is good.
Determining whether your roofer cut corners depends on various factors. It's essential to assess the quality of the work performed and the materials used. If you notice issues like inconsistent shingle placement, improper flashing, or inadequate ventilation, it could indicate shortcuts. Additionally, if your roofer didn't follow industry standards or manufacturer guidelines, it might be a concern. However, before jumping to conclusions, consider discussing your observations with the roofer to clarify their approach. If needed, seeking a second opinion from another professional can provide valuable insights into the quality of the work.-Leo MICK