A commonality that many homeowners share is the love for fancy and expensive shingles for their roofs. While there is nothing wrong with that, a common mistake that comes with this is cheaping out on the remaining roof components. Many people do this for affordability reasons because as you are well aware, roofing is not cheap. However, doing this may cause you more money in the long run. How? Read on to find out.
With roofing, price almost always reflects quality
One of the main issues with a cheap roof system is that the low price point often reflects the quality of materials and workmanship. While it’s understandable that everyone has a budget to adhere to, going for the cheapest components available might spell trouble for your roof in the future.
High-quality roofing components, part of a manufacturer’s roof system, might be more expensive, but they offer greater durability and longevity. Conversely, opting for cheaper alternatives can lead to subpar installation practices. Roofing contractors who provide lower quotes may not employ the best labor to install your roof, compromising its integrity.
Cheaper installations could involve using air gun nailing, using 3-tab shingles as ridge capping, or even skipping crucial components altogether. Over time, these shortcuts can result in frequent repairs and, ultimately, a premature roof replacement, long before you should have needed one. While affordability is important, there are ways to find reasonable roofing options without sacrificing quality.
Roof life is affected, too
Choosing a cheap roof system not only impacts the quality of your roof but also its overall lifespan. The use of cheap materials and labor can lead to hidden issues that might not be immediately apparent. Eventually, these problems will surface, and your roof will likely develop leaks.
Unfortunately, because you opted for cheap labor, the roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty may no longer be in effect when these issues arise. This means you’ll have to bear the cost of repairs out of your pocket, which can add up significantly.
On the other hand, a manufacturer’s roof system, if properly installed, can last as long as the materials on the roof hold up. Depending on the roofing material, this could mean a roof lifespan of 25, 30, or even 50 years. The longevity of a cheap roof system will be far shorter, leading to unexpected expenses sooner than anticipated.
You get limited warranty coverage
When you invest in a manufacturer’s roof system with all the components from a single manufacturer, you often qualify for an enhanced warranty. This comprehensive warranty covers labor, materials, dump fees, and is non-prorated for up to 50 years in case of material defects.
This enhanced warranty is transferable to the next homeowner, making it an attractive selling point if you plan to move in the future. However, when you choose a cheap roof system using disparate components, you miss out on this valuable enhanced warranty. When you don’t go the single manufacturer route, you miss out on this incredible safety cushion.