Q&A – Roof Sheathing Damaged After Reroof

Noticing holes in the roof sheathing after his home was reroofed, this Pennsylvania homeowner was curious if this was normal.

Michael, a Pennsylvania homeowner, recently had his home reroofed and started finding holes in the sheathing. Curious if this was normal and what the next steps are, he asked: 

Is it common for roof sheathing to be damaged when installing shingles? I recently had my home re-roofed and several of the existing pieces of sheathing appear to have been damaged (shattered) by the penetration of the new nails. There are several holes in the sheathing that are up to about 5in x 8in and numerous other spots where the sheathing splintered or cracked. I can only see the sheathing in about 1/4 of the home and I am concerned that more damage likely occurred in the areas which I cannot view. What should the contractor reasonably be expected to do about this issue? 

Below is what our roofing expert with Farrell Roofing had to say in response to your question: 

Based off your photo, this is not normal — it depends on what kind of sheathing they used. ½ OSB or plywood would withstand any nail penetration without splintering or cracking. We are curious if they used a different style of untreated underlayment that is not made to withstand high pressure nail penetrations. Any good contractor would stand by their work — they should come and inspect the area and make sure all areas are tight and not at risk for a blow off. If the nails are free moving then the shingles on the outside can be free moving; therefore, risking a blow off. Ask the contractor to provide what kind of lumber was used and encourage them to use the correct underlayment and make the area watertight. 1/2in to 5/8, even up to ¾ inch should be used. 

Hope this helps! Good luck! 

Continue the conversation in our Forum!  

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory.