a construction worker sign showing a risk that roofers take

The Little-Known Risks Pittsburgh Roofing Contractors Take are something you might want to consider before choosing a roofer.

There are a few risks inexperienced roofing contractors in Pittsburgh take, And we are not one of them.

Let’s delve in.

A roof is often one of the neglected aspects of a home or building, but it is debatably the most important one as well. No matter if you are installing a brand-new roof or replacing an existing one, you have to ensure that you are working with a team of professionals.

A trustworthy team like M&Y Pittsburgh Roofing is fully capable, licensed and qualified of providing high-quality work.

Beware of the inexperienced contractors who cut corners. They can cost you tons of additional money and stress in the future.

Common Risks Pittsburgh Contractors Make
When Installing New Roofs

The following little-known risks that Pittsburgh roofing contractors make can cause some serious damage to your home or business.

#1 – No Installation of Drip Edge

The drip edge is a thin metal lip that runs along the edge of your roof, underneath the shingles. Its purpose is to allow water to drip off, rather than entering your home from the edge of the roof. It also prevents the entrance of insects into your house and offers support for the roof’s shingles.

Most of the time, inexperienced contractors don’t install the drip edge intentionally or unintentionally. Sometimes they reuse the existing one. Both of these situations have adverse consequences down the road.  

M&Y Pittsburgh Roofing is the #1 Pittsburgh Roofing Company follow the recommendations of our partners over at Owens Corning – they advise the installation of drip edge.

#2 – Lack of Starter Shingles  

These shingles are installed along the edge of your roof, and they are attached with an additional adhesive. This adhesive prevents the shingles from lifting or blowing off in extreme weather.

If your inexperienced roofer forgets to install these shingles, your roof can lift along the edges, and this is a concerning issue.  

As the #1 Roofing Company in Pittsburgh we install Owens Corning Starter Shingles for 3 reasons:

  • Watertightness
  • Wind Resistance
  • A Uniform Look

#3 – No Installation of Leak Barrier  

This layer is installed underneath the shingles and directly to the roof deck to prevent leaks. It offers an additional layer of protection from water and outdoor elements.

For cities who have freezing temperatures in the winter like Pittsburgh does, it would be against building code to not have a leak barrier. Otherwise, you would have water soaking into the roof deck due to “ice damming”.

Inexperienced roofers in Pittsburgh who don’t install leak barriers cause:

  • Leaks
  • Water Damage
  • Rots
  • Sagging Shingles

#4 – Use of Wrong Nails for Roofing


A mistake in this department can bring the refusal of the insurance company to pay a claim afterward. There are specific guidelines to select the appropriate category of nails for the roof installation.

In general, claim denial or a faster deterioration would be the result of using:

  • Too Short Nails
  • Too Small Nails
  • Nails that Lack Barbed Shanks
  • Insufficient Nails
#5 – No Flashing  

Flashing is a thin strip of steel. It is used to direct the water away from the areas where the roof plane meets a vertical surface, such as a vent or a chimney.

If it is not installed or is poorly installed, you will most probably experience damages caused by water in those areas. And it can become a potential threat for the roof frame or even your entire home.

We use flashing where the roof deck meets the side of a wall. We use it for front walls as well, otherwise water would get into the walls of your home.

Services of Pittsburgh Roofing

You cannot afford to experience a roof installation that causes little-known risks Pittsburgh roofing contractors take. That is why M&Y Pittsburgh Roofing can help you to get rid of such frustrating and expensive services. If it is not installed or poorly installed, you will most probably experience damages caused by water in those areas.

Pittsburgh Roofing can help you avoid this expensive and frustrating situation. Our top-notch customer service, years of experience, and professional roofers will make sure that you will get a long-lasting roof installation at a very economical price.

We are certified and are one of Owens Corning preferred partners. If you are considering a new roof installation or a replacement for the old one, feel free to call 412-654-6221. We would love to help you out.  

Author: M&Y Pittsburgh Roofing Team