Top 5 Common Roofing Mistakes to Avoid When Installing DIY Roofing

Installing a new roof is a significant investment and a crucial aspect of any home improvement project. While opting for a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach can save you money, it's important to be aware of the common roofing mistakes that people make during the installation process. This gives us a great opportunity to discuss, what we think are the top five errors to avoid when undertaking a DIY roofing project.

One of the most common mistakes DIY enthusiasts make when installing a roof is rushing into the project without adequate planning. Proper planning involves assessing the roof's condition, understanding the required materials, estimating the project timeline, and organising the necessary tools. Skipping these essential steps can lead to delays, cost overruns, and even compromise the roof's integrity.

To avoid this mistake, take the time to research and educate yourself about the roofing process. Create a plan that includes measurements, material calculations (why not check out our handy roof calculator!) and a step-by-step installation guide. By doing so, you'll have a clear roadmap to follow, reducing the chances of errors along the way.

Choosing the wrong roofing materials can be a costly mistake. It's crucial to select materials that are suitable for your specific climate, the slope of your roof, and your budget. Failure to consider these factors may result in premature deterioration, leaks, and poor overall performance.

This is where Onduline roofing products stand out. With our extensive range of durable, lightweight, and weather-resistant solutions, Onduline ensures long-lasting protection for your home. Our products, such as our CLASSIC roofing sheets, are engineered with advanced technology that provides exceptional resistance to UV rays, extreme temperatures, and heavy rainfall. By opting for Onduline, you can confidently deliver superior roofing solutions to your clients, ensuring customer satisfaction and building a trustworthy reputation.

Inadequate installation techniques can compromise the functionality and longevity of your roof. Common mistakes include improper nailing, incorrect placement of underlay, inadequate ventilation, and poor flashing installation. These errors can lead to leaks, structural damage, and even mould growth.

To avoid such issues, it's crucial to educate yourself on proper installation techniques. Consult reliable roofing resources and watch tutorial videos. By taking the time to master the correct techniques, you'll ensure that your DIY roofing project is successful and provides reliable protection for years to come.

Safety should always be a top priority during any roofing project. Unfortunately, many DIY enthusiasts neglect safety measures, leading to accidents and injuries. Falling from heights, improper ladder usage, lack of protective gear, and electrical hazards are just a few risks associated with roofing installations.

Always prioritise safety by using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), depending on the nature of the project in hand, Consider protective wear such as helmets, gloves, and non-slip shoes. Ensure that your ladder is stable and positioned correctly. If needed, enlist the help of a friend or family member to provide assistance and supervision during the project. By taking the necessary precautions, you'll safeguard yourself and others involved in the roofing installation.

The underlay is a critical component of any roofing system, providing an additional layer of protection against moisture and leaks. However, some DIYers make the mistake of using low-quality or incorrect underlay materials, compromising the roof's integrity.

A key advantage of Onduline’s underlay is the lightweight nature. We employ advanced manufacturing techniques to create underlays that are easy to handle and install, reducing labour and transportation costs. The lightweight design also puts less stress on the roof structure, resulting in improved safety and longevity.

ONDUTISS AIR is a high-quality underlay used in many different roofing installations. It is a high-performance, nonwoven, breathable membrane that is designed to protect the roof structure and interior of a building from moisture and water damage.

One of the main benefits of ONDUTISS AIR is that it is breathable, meaning that it allows moisture vapour to escape from the building's interior while preventing water from entering. This helps to prevent the build-up of moisture in the roof structure, which can lead to mould and rot. A must-have for DIYers undertaking a new roofing installation!

We hope you found this breakdown of what we think are the top 5 common mistakes made during a re-roofing project useful, before embarking on your next DIY adventure.

Don’t forget our lightweight and easy-to-install roofing can be purchased via Amazon and Wickes. Check out our full list of stockists.

Also, if you have any questions about our roofing, our team will be happy to help and you can contact us by calling 0207 727 0533 or emailing [email protected]. Discover the full range at onduline.co.uk