AAR Expert Wendy Marvin talks about protecting your roof when specialists outside of the trade need to access it.

You just had a beautiful new roof installed. It’s got a strong warranty, it looks sharp and you feel good knowing your home is protected. Then a few months later, the HVAC tech needs to service a rooftop unit or the painters need to set up scaffolding.

And just like that, your investment is at risk and you’re often not even aware of it.

This is one of the conversations we have often with building owners and homeowners, and honestly, it deserves more attention in the home improvement space.

Other trades don’t think about your roof 

Each specialty has its own priorities. Electrical runs, refrigerant lines, panel placement, it all adds up to good things for their industry and bad things for your shingle integrity.

That’s not criticism. It’s the nature of specialized work. The problem is that roofs are uniquely vulnerable to the kind of casual, incidental contact that other trades create without a second thought.

Heat is a big deal 

It’s often surprising to learn that architectural shingles can begin to soften at mild temperatures like 75 degrees. Your rooftop is often 20-30 degrees hotter than the ambient temperature outside. Walking on shingles in that condition, dragging a ladder or setting down equipment creates impressions, scuffs and granule loss that aren’t always visible from the ground, but directly affect performance over time.

Tradespeople aren’t thinking of your roof, their minds are on their own job and maybe even other things while they’re working.

Equipment damage 

Ladders leaned against roof edges. Scaffolding systems that bear weight on shingle surfaces. Dropped tools bounce and slide. These things happen, and because it’s not “their” job to think of roofing, specialty contractors often aren’t careful, nor do they notice the damage they’re causing.

We have pulled hammers and other tools out of gutters many times. Tools, debris, screws, wire cuts – all of it ends up washing into the gutter system and clogging downspouts. To them it’s a minor mess, but to you, when your gutters overflow it’s a BIG headache.

As an owner – do this before you allow them up 

Document everything. Take photos. Take video. Walk around the entire perimeter and capture close-ups of every valley, every area around your penetrations, every edge. Make sure those photos are date and time stamped – your phone typically does this automatically but make sure that setting isn’t turned off.

Maybe even go further. If multiple roof checks by other tradespeople are scheduled, document between each one. It may be 15 minutes of your time now, but it can save you thousands later.

Before you allow tradespeople on your roof, here are a few ground rules I’d suggest:  

• No ladders laid down on or dragged across shingles.  
• No equipment or materials staged on the roof surface unless a protective barrier is placed.  
• Cool weather work only. Early morning or a cool day.  
• Retrieval of all debris and tools is mandatory before they leave.  

Let them know, you will be documenting before and after. Say it directly to them. It changes behavior.  

Your roof investment matters

A quality roof installation, properly maintained, can protect your home for decades. But warranties have conditions, and “another trade damaged it” isn’t covered. The best position to be in is being able to resolve any issues immediately because you have the proper documentation to determine fault, and you’re willing to hold people accountable. Protect your investment. Direct conversations and a few photos show trades you mean business, and it will keep the attention focused on the right thing. Protect your beautiful home.   

By The Coffee Shops™. 

The Third Estimate outlines why expert inspections are the safest and most reliable way to address roof damage. 

In the article “The Hidden Dangers of DIY Roof Repairs,” roofing professionals at The Third Estimate highlight the risks homeowners face when attempting to repair roof damage themselves. While a missing shingle or small leak may seem like a quick weekend fix, industry experts warn that roofing is more complex — and dangerous — than it appears. 

One of the most immediate concerns is safety. Roofs often feature steep slopes, uneven surfaces and materials that become slick when wet or worn. Without proper training, safety equipment and footwear designed for roofing work, climbing onto a roof can lead to serious injury. Even walking across shingles incorrectly can cause additional damage that makes the problem worse. 

Another challenge is that visible damage is often only part of the issue. What looks like a simple missing shingle or minor leak could indicate deeper problems beneath the surface. Water intrusion can travel through roofing systems and impact decking, insulation or attic spaces, potentially leading to rot or mold growth. A quick patch may temporarily cover the problem while allowing structural damage to continue developing out of sight. 

Improper repairs can also create new issues. Using the wrong materials or installing a patch incorrectly may cause water to pool, compromise drainage or fail during the next storm. Without the experience to properly evaluate the full roofing system, including ventilation, flashing and structural components, DIY repairs can unintentionally increase long-term repair costs. 

Because of these risks, professional roof inspections play a critical role in identifying problems early. At The Third Estimate, technicians conduct a detailed 21-point inspection that evaluates shingles, flashing, gutters and attic ventilation. The process also includes drone technology to capture high-resolution images of hard-to-reach areas, giving property owners a clearer understanding of their roof’s condition. 

For contractors and homeowners alike, the takeaway is clear: addressing roofing problems correctly the first time helps prevent costly damage and safety risks. 

FAQs about DIY roof repairs 

Is it safe to walk on my roof to look for leaks?  

No. Walking on a roof without proper roofing footwear and training can lead to serious injury and can damage your shingles further.  

Can I just nail a new shingle over a missing one?  

Using the wrong materials or incorrect installation techniques can cause water pooling and compromise your drainage system.  

How do professionals find hidden roof damage?  

Experts utilize a detailed 21-point inspection and drone technology to capture high-resolution images, ensuring no hidden rot or mold goes unnoticed as well as documenting all findings properly. 

Read the full article from The Third Estimate to learn more about the potential risks of DIY roof repairs and how professional inspections can help protect homes.

Original article and photo source: The Third Estimate

By The Coffee Shops. 

Early identification of roofing problems can prevent expensive repairs and extend the life of your roof. 

For commercial property owners, the roof is one of the most critical yet vulnerable parts of the building. Subjected to harsh weather conditions — ranging from heavy snow and ice to high winds and freezing rain — roofs often endure significant stress. Recognizing early signs that your roof requires repair is crucial in preventing costly damage and ensuring the longevity of your roofing system. Here are five of those signs the experts at ROOFCORP see in the field. 

1 – Leaks 

Water pouring into a space through a leak is the most obvious signal that your roof needs attention. But leaks can also be smaller and more hidden. Make sure to keep an eye out for water stains on ceilings or walls, which can indicate that moisture has penetrated the roof's outer layers. And if you see anything that might be a leak, get a professional out there! Even the smallest leak can escalate quickly, damaging insulation, ceilings and electrical systems. A professional can pinpoint the source of the leak and restore the roof’s protective barrier before further damage occurs. 

2 – Drainage 

Commercial roofs, which are often low-slope roofs, are particularly prone to drainage problems. And when water stands on the roof, it adds weight, stresses the structure and accelerates deterioration. Left unaddressed, pooling water can damage roofing membranes and lead to costly leaks. Identifying drainage issues — such as blocked drains or uneven surfaces — early on can prevent mold growth, structural decay and major repairs.  

3 – Cracking  

It is natural over the course of a roof’s lifespan for issues like cracking to appear. The source of a crack is often fluctuating temperatures. As a roof membrane heats and cools it expands and contracts, which leads to cracks and/or tears. While this is normal, it is important to repair these damages promptly as even the smallest breach can allow moisture to infiltrate the insulation layer, creating hidden damage that undermines the roof’s structural integrity. 

4 – Weight 

For those in areas that get a lot of winter weather, it is important to be aware of what snow and ice can do to a commercial roof. The weight of heavy snow places downward pressure on roofing systems, while ice can block drainage at the roof’s edges, leading to damage. Further, when that heavy snow melts and sits on the roof because of the ice blockage, it can back up under the roofing layers, leading to further damage. If you notice sagging areas, stress cracks or ice buildup, it's crucial to get a skilled contractor out there quickly.  

5 – Cold 

If you’ve started to notice the interior of your building growing draftier and/or your energy bill going up, it might be an indicator that your roof’s insulation or sealing are failing. Roofing materials are key for energy efficiency, especially when it comes to keeping heat from escaping the interior. Bringing in a professional to inspect can help you identify areas where insulation and/or seals have worn down and need to be replaced. 

Read the full article to learn more about commercial roof care!

By Anna Lockhart.  

One Texas home wows the judges and wins Metal Roofing Alliance’s (MRA) Best Residential Metal Roofing Project of Q1 for 2026! 

Each quarter, Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) presents awards to outstanding residential metal roofing projects that stand out against the rest. For Q1 of this year, MRA gave special recognition to the work of Metal Master Roofing out of Texas, for their work on a copper masterpiece. 

The homeowners wanted to replace their existing galvalume standing seam roof after experiencing storm damage. Of course, their replacement wouldn’t be just any material – they wanted to upgrade in style with a copper roof! Metal Masters Roofing was up for the challenge, enlisting the help of Copper Masters and M&C Seamless Gutters to bring this vision to life.  

Though supply chain issues proved difficult over the course of the project, stretching the timeline, they saw it through and finished the job with stunning results. Philip Miller of Metal Master Roofing shared with MRA, “This is the largest copper metal roof we’ve installed in the 45 years we’ve been in business.”  

What started as a unique challenge turned into an even more worthwhile result; a happy homeowner, stunning visuals and a major accomplishment under the team’s belt! Now, there’s a Best Residential Metal Roofing Project Award added to the list, too! 

Though the awards have been announced for Q1, there’s still time to nominate residential metal roofing projects for Q2! Open to U.S. and Canada, homeowners and industry professionals are encouraged to enter the competition!  

Learn more about the Metal Roofing Alliance’s Best Roofing Project Awards!

By The Coffee Shops™. 

ADS and Robinson Roofing’s partnership is a prime example of how working with a well-connected contractor helps homeowners. 

Many people don’t realize how much their roof interacts with the rest of their home. But from attic ventilation being key to keeping a roof healthy to roof colors impacting the interior temperatures of a home, everything in a building is interconnected. Which is why it can be incredibly beneficial to work with a roofing contractor that has established relationships with other tradespeople and companies.  

A great example of this type of cross-trades relationship is the partnership between Advanced Drying Systems (ADS) and Robinson Roofing. The partnership connects ADS, a provider of water mitigation and mold remediation services, with Robinson Roofing, a roofing company serving customers throughout Florida.  

From the ADS side, this collaboration allows them to offer comprehensive roofing solutions in addition to its restoration services, creating a more complete path for customers recovering from water damage. As for Robinson Roofing, pairing roofing services with moisture detection and mitigation allows them to support faster and more complete recovery for their clients dealing with roof leaks.  

Casey Weldon, president of ADS, shared some insights into the partnership, saying, “This is a huge step forward...Our goal has always been to help homeowners and business owners recover quickly and completely after water damage. By adding roofing to our services through this partnership with Robinson Roofing, we’re able to address a major cause of water damage and provide even more value to our customers.” 

Learn more about Advanced Drying Systems’ and Robinson Roofing partnership and how it exemplifies the role of collaboration in elevated customer service.

About Robinson Roofing 

Since 2016, Robinson Roofing has served homeowners across Florida with certified craftsmanship and dependable roofing solutions. Their team understands that your home is more than a structure — it’s where comfort and security begin — and treats every project with the care and precision they'd give their own. Robinson Roofing’s contractors are certified to provide a wide range of services, including comprehensive roof solutions for asphalt, metal and tile systems, as well as storm damage restoration and emergency repairs. Learn more at www.robinsonroofingfl.com. 

By DaVinci Roofscapes.

Hand-split shake siding from DaVinci recaptures authentic cedar siding.

Built around 1914, the three-story water tower on the old Weeks homestead is still standing. And today it’s been given new life. The structure, which is a historical focal point on Lopez Island in Washington state, has just been refinished with DaVinci Hand-Split Shake Siding in a beautiful Aged Cedar color.

Debra Maggiora, current owner of the Weeks homestead in Washington, shared some thoughts:

I wanted to mimic the aesthetic of the 100-year-old shakes that were deteriorated and needed to be removed to keep the historic look of the water tower. I became familiar with the DaVinci products when I worked on reroofing a different historic building. At that time, I sought manmade materials due to their longevity and lower maintenance requirements. DaVinci shared their synthetic roofing materials and I was impressed. Now, they’ve impressed me again with their synthetic siding product.

Surprisingly realistic

Debra currently rents out the water tower to Marleigh Alexander, who runs Haircuts on the Rock inside the tower.

“My customers are fascinated to hear that the composite material is all new, yet honors the age of the building with its visual aesthetics,” says Marleigh. “Many people have been really surprised to find out that the replacement siding isn’t real cedar shake. It’s incredibly authentic looking!”

Adding another century of life

Tackling the re-siding project was Dan Kellenberger, better known as “Handy Dandy Home Maintenance” to area residents. In addition to enhancing the water tower’s exterior, Kellenberger also rebuilt its foundation, replaced shiplap boarding and rebuilt the roof area using DaVinci shake products.

Available in 8” and 10” widths, each tile is 5/8” thick and 18” tall, with thick construction and deep grooves. The realistic grain patterns combine to create dramatic shadows and visual richness. The 10” pieces have a simulated keyway to give the look of 4” and 6” shakes to create a multi-width appearance. All the DaVinci pieces resist fading, rotting, cracking, pests, severe weather and high winds.

“The original cedar materials were way past their lifespan,” says Dan. “They were old and split. The composite materials from DaVinci will hold up much better in the Pacific Northwest weather in the future. Plus, they’re fire-resistant and require almost no maintenance. With DaVinci, we’ve found a long-term solution for keeping the historic water tower looking great for another century!”

AAR Expert John Kenney says the best projects occur when the owner, roofing contractor and other trades work together rather than independently. 

Most home and building owners understand the importance of hiring a qualified roofing contractor when roof work is needed. What many don't realize is that some of the most expensive roof damage I see isn't caused by roofers at all. It's caused by other trades working on the roof. 

HVAC contractors, electricians, plumbers, satellite installers, solar companies, telecommunications technicians and maintenance personnel all regularly access roofs. While these professionals are experts in their own trades, they are not always trained in proper roofing practices. Unfortunately, a small mistake made during another project can lead to leaks, warranty issues and costly repairs months or even years later. 

I've seen situations where a perfectly good roof was damaged simply because someone wasn't aware of how sensitive certain roofing systems can be. That's why owners should take a proactive approach anytime another trade needs roof access. 

The first precaution is understanding who will be responsible for protecting the roof during the work. Before any project begins, ask contractors how they plan to access the roof and what measures they will take to prevent damage. Professional companies should have procedures for protecting roofing materials, controlling foot traffic and handling equipment safely. 

Foot traffic alone can be a concern. Many roofing systems are designed to withstand normal weather exposure, but can be damaged by excessive traffic, dropped tools or equipment being dragged across the surface. Single-ply membranes, coatings and some specialty roofing systems can be particularly vulnerable if workers are not careful. 

Roof penetrations are another common source of problems. Whenever a new pipe, conduit, support bracket or piece of equipment passes through the roof, waterproofing details become critical. Too often, another trade installs its equipment and leaves the roofing details as an afterthought. That's when leaks begin. 

One of the best practices I recommend is requiring coordination between the trade performing the work and a qualified roofing contractor. If new penetrations are needed, the roofing contractor should either perform the flashing work or inspect and approve the final waterproofing details. This simple step can prevent many future problems. 

Owners should also pay attention to warranty requirements. Many roofing manufacturers require specific procedures when modifying a roof. Unauthorized penetrations or repairs may affect warranty coverage. Before allowing work to proceed, it's worth reviewing warranty requirements and confirming that any modifications will not create issues later. 

Equipment placement deserves consideration as well. HVAC units, solar systems and other rooftop equipment should be installed in locations that allow proper drainage and access for future roof maintenance. I've seen equipment placed directly over drains, blocking water flow and creating ponding issues that eventually damaged the roofing system. 

Debris control is another often-overlooked issue. Metal shavings, fasteners, packaging materials and construction debris left behind on a roof can create problems long after the project is complete. Metal filings can rust and stain roof surfaces, while loose fasteners can damage roofing materials or clog drainage systems. A thorough cleanup should always be part of the scope of work. 

Documentation is also important. Before another trade begins work, consider taking photographs of the roof's condition. Once the project is complete, perform a follow-up inspection or have a roofing professional review the work. This helps identify potential concerns early before they develop into larger issues. 

Communication may be the most valuable precaution of all. The best projects occur when the owner, roofing contractor and other trades work together rather than independently. Clear expectations about roof protection, penetrations, warranty requirements and cleanup responsibilities reduce misunderstandings and help protect the investment you've already made in your roof. 

Your roof is one of the most important systems protecting your home or building. While other trades may need access to perform their work, that access should be managed carefully. A little planning and coordination upfront can prevent leaks, preserve warranties and help ensure the roof continues performing as intended for years to come. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Using research to find the perfect contractor for your repair needs. 

With the spring months comes both construction and storm season. In fact, many areas in the Midwest and southern regions of the United States have already experienced severe thunderstorms, hail and even tornadoes this year. And with those storms comes damage to roofs, gutters and siding.  

This can be a stressful time to be a home or business owner, as repair needs can crop up as suddenly as a storm can blow through. But it’s important to make sure that you take the time to find the right contractor to do repairs for you as there are unfortunately people who may try to take advantage of post-storm stress. In fact, Bone Dry Roofing heard about one such story when they were helping rebuild after a storm this March:  

One resident, Ashley Dutton, reported to CBS News that the hail in her neighborhood wasn’t big enough to cause any damage to her home. But that didn’t stop 3 guys in a car from knocking on Dutton’s door selling their roof repair services. The company told Dutton that they were Better Business Bureau accredited. However, the news station did some fact-finding and discovered that they not only were not BBB accredited but were not even licensed in her town. 

This is a good reminder to do some independent research when looking for a contractor to work with. Take Bone Dry Roofing as an example. A quick look around their website and online presence shows their history (established in 1989), their community reputation (five starts on over 12,000 Google reviews) and their actual BBB accreditation. Further digging reveals their listing on Angie’s List and certifications from leading distributors like Owens Corning and CertainTeed.  

All of this to say, storms can be scary and cleaning up after is stressful. But make sure to take some time to explore and research to make sure you are working with a contractor who will take care of your home or business with the same care you do.  

Learn more about finding the right contractor for you in the Roofing 101 section of AskARoofer.com.

MRA unveils new guides with collective advice from leading industry experts.

For homeowners searching for solid, credible online advice from true industry experts, it’s obvious that AI doesn’t have all the answers. In fact, it can be a downright frustrating experience separating trustworthy guidance from all the questionable findings.

That’s why organizations like the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), a leading nonprofit trade organization that consists of some of the biggest and most credible names in the metal roofing industry, are giving homeowners the ability to tap into free, comprehensive resources to make the most educated roofing decisions possible.

That effort includes MRA’s new “mini guides” – entitled “Regional Considerations,” “Preparing for a New Roof,” “Metal Roofing Options” and “Choosing an Installer” – that are designed to give homeowners valuable advice and guidance when replacing their roof and making the best decision for their home.

Now available on www.metalroofing.com, the new guides are a follow up to MRA’s ever-popular “Residential Metal Roofing Buyer’s Guide” which covers a wide range of comprehensive topics ranging from everything from metal roofing basics, installation advice, decision making criteria, material comparisons and much more. The new mini guides are meant to augment the larger guide yet give homeowners a way to drill into priority topics that are most important to them – quickly and easily – with each mini guide ranging from just ten to twelve pages.

Filled with inspiring images, essential tips and recommendations that have been vetted by MRA’s U.S. and Canada members, including leading metal roofing manufacturers, suppliers and contractors, each mini guide is a valuable snapshot of some of the most important elements homeowners need to know before investing in a new roof. For homeowners interested in as much information and detail as possible, MRA also still offers its complete Buyer’s Guide for free as a download on the website as well.

“Our new mini guides give homeowners a valuable and credible way to get the customized information they need when it comes to re-roofing their home, specifically for topics they might be most curious about,” said Renee Ramey, MRA executive director. “Good research and doing your homework are the keys for making a wise roofing decision that you’ll be happy with for years to come. That’s why we’re so pleased to be able to offer this extensive collection of guides.”

Check out MRA’s wide range of guides and resources available at https://www.metalroofing.com/mra-resources.

About Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA)

Representing the residential metal roofing industry in the United States and Canada, the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) was formed to help educate consumers about the many benefits of metal roofing. For more information about MRA membership, residential metal roofing resources and tools, visit MRA at www.metalroofing.com.

By Emma Peterson. 

Join us as we bust seven common roofing myths – and explain how your roof really works. 

Whether you’ve heard the myth that metal roofs will sound like a drum solo in the rain to the idea that solar panels only work on sunny days, there are a lot of misconceptions out there about roofs. Here at AskARoofer, our goal is to cut through these myths and help home and business owners understand the truth about their roofs. In this article, we want to highlight some of the biggest myths we’ve heard – and share the actual truth of the issue.  

1 - Damage is always visible 

When it comes to roof repairs, many people assume that damage is always obvious. And in some cases, damage can be severe enough to be clearly visible. Maybe a tree fell on your roof or there's water dripping into a bucket inside the building. But there are also cases where roof damage is sneaky and invisible. For example, UV (sun) exposure can slowly break down roofing materials like asphalt. 

To catch these less obvious issues, it’s important to have roofing professionals come by for semi-regular inspections of your roof. By doing this proactively, you can catch issues early, long before they become more damaging, dangerous and expensive.  

2 - New roofing = no maintenance 

It’s not uncommon for home or business owners to assume that getting a new roof installed means that they have a two or three-year break before they’ll have to do roof maintenance. And while that new roof will perform better than the old one, it is still susceptible to damage and needs care in order to perform as best as possible. 

3 - Ventilation is a bonus feature, not a necessity  

Too often, ventilation is overlooked for its key role in keeping a roof system healthy. If your roof does not have enough ventilation, excessive moisture and heat will build up and age your roof from the inside out. And if you put too much ventilation in, you can compromise the weather-proofness of your roof.  This is true across climates and seasons.  

If you want your roof to last as long as possible, and perform to its best ability during that lifespan, balanced ventilation is a necessity.  

4 - DIY or professional, it doesn’t matter 

Roofs are expensive, and it can be tempting to try to find a cheaper option – like doing it yourself (DIYing). However, even just climbing on a roof without proper training and equipment is dangerous and sometimes deadly. Further, without the right roofing expertise and knowledge, DIYers can create larger, costlier issues down the road due to incorrect installation.  

Overall, what might seem like a quick, cheaper fix now often costs home and business owners more down the road. It’s not worth it to put yourself or your roof in danger. Hiring a certified professional is the way to go.  

5 - Lifetime warranties cover everything 

Roofs are a big investment and key to keeping both people and property safe, so having a warranty is great. But where many people misstep is when it comes to understanding what a warranty actually covers and how to avoid accidentally voiding it.  

For example, a lifetime warranty almost always comes with specific terms, conditions and limitations attached. A common problem owners encounter is the warranty being prorated, meaning that after a certain number of years, that warranty doesn’t cover everything; it covers a fraction of the roof’s original value. Another common one is exclusion of coverage or voiding of warranty if maintenance is not up to the warranty’s standards.  

Overall, warranties are valuable, but don’t take them at face value. When it says lifetime, it doesn’t mean forever. Make sure to read the fine print to make sure you understand what parts of your roof are covered and how to keep them covered.  

6 - The only value of metal roofing is functionality  

There are many metal roof myths out there, but they all center on the idea that metal roofing prioritizes durability and functionality over comfort and aesthetics. And while there are definitely metal roofs that do this, they’re usually on top of sheds or agricultural buildings. The metal roofing that gets used on homes and commercial spaces are far more advanced than what your grandpa might have had on his farm back in the day.  

Modern metal roofing can come in a variety of forms that emulate traditional roofing materials, whether that’s tile or shingles or something else! They are also always installed in combination with insulation and other structural layers (such as vapor barriers), which means rain doesn’t sound any louder on a metal roof than an asphalt one.  

So, yes, we often talk about the durability of metal roofing, because it truly is incredible (think 40-50 year lifespan), but that performance does not have to come with the sacrifice of aesthetics or comfort! 

7 - Solar panels are overrated and inaccessible 

There is a myth that solar panels are an expensive home renovation that only really benefits you if you live in an area that gets a lot of sunshine all year around. However, these are in fact myths. The truth is, solar is accessible and beneficial for households and buildings in all kinds of areas. 

Solar panels use photovoltaic technology, which takes light and transforms it into electricity. The key word here is light, something that is present even if the sun is hidden by clouds. So, while production is going to be at its peak on sunny, clear days, solar panels still work even if it’s overcast.  

And when it comes to cost, recent technological advances and federal rebates have made the upfront cost for solar energy far more accessible. Further, the energy savings that many households experience after installing solar often recovers that original, upfront cost.  

You can learn more about your roof by reading AskARoofer articles and/or listening to our podcasts!