Roofing Mistakes to Avoid in Denver

Delaying Small Repairs

One missing shingle may not seem urgent, but here in Denver, one winter storm is enough to turn that weak spot into a major leak.

Common consequences of delaying repairs:

• Meltwater seeps into underlayment and decking.

• Leaks spread into insulation and drywall.

• Mold and structural rot develop inside walls and attics.

I tell homeowners all the time: “If you fix it now, you’ll spend a couple hundred bucks. Wait until next spring, and you’re staring at thousands.”

Hiring Out-of-Town Storm Chasers

After a hailstorm, trucks with out-of-state plates swarm neighborhoods. They knock on doors, promise quick work, and offer to “handle your insurance.”

Here’s what usually happens:

• They use fast crews with little training.

• They leave town once the storm season ends.

• When leaks show up later, no one answers your calls.

Local roofing isn’t just about installing shingles — it’s about standing behind your work. If your roofer disappears after the check clears, you’re left with no warranty support.

Ignoring Gutters and Drainage

Your roof and gutters work as a team. Ignore one, and the other suffers. Common issues I see:

• Clogged gutters form ice dams that push water under shingles.

• Broken downspouts flood foundations and siding.

• Poor gutter pitch dumps water in the wrong places.

One Thornton homeowner had seamless gutters installed 20 years ago but never cleaned them. Ice dams forced water back under shingles, rotting an entire roof edge. The fix wasn’t just a gutter cleaning — it was a full fascia and decking replacement.

Skipping Inspections

Many homeowners wait until they see water stains on the ceiling to call a roofer. By then, the damage is already expensive.

Why inspections matter in Denver:

• Hail bruises shingles long before leaks appear.

• Annual freeze-thaw cycles loosen flashing and fasteners.

• Insurance claims are easier when damage is caught early.

I recommend two inspections a year: one before winter, one after spring hail season.

Poor Ventilation

A roof is more than shingles — it’s a system. Without proper attic ventilation:

• Heat builds up, shortening shingle life.

• Moisture condenses, causing mold and rot.

• Ice dams form more easily in winter.

Many low-cost roofers skip this step because it takes more time. But ventilation is one of the best long-term protections for your roof.

Installing Wrong Materials for Denver’s Climate

Not every shingle sold at a big box store is built for Colorado. Homeowners sometimes choose materials based on looks or price instead of performance.

Examples of poor choices:

• Thin 3-tab shingles that can’t withstand hail.

• Low-grade underlayment that tears during installation.

• Improper flashing materials that rust in two years.

Always choose materials rated for hail, wind, and high UV exposure.

Skipping Permits or Working Without Code Compliance

Denver requires permits and inspections for roof replacements. Some contractors skip this to save time or money. That leads to:

• Failed home inspections when you try to sell.

• Voided insurance claims.

• Potential fines from the city.

A proper permit protects you as the homeowner. It proves the job was done to code.

Not Hiring Local, Experienced Contractors

Your roof is one of the biggest investments in your home. Hiring local ensures:

• The contractor knows Denver codes and inspectors.

• You get warranty support years down the line.

• Your money supports the local community.

At Ernie’s Roofing, we’ve been here since 1978. Our work is on homes from Highlands to Parker — roofs we can still drive by today. That’s the difference between local and fly-by-night crews.

Conclusion

Roofing mistakes are easy to make and expensive to fix. The good news is they’re avoidable with the right knowledge and the right contractor. Don’t patch leaks with tar, don’t chase the lowest bid, and don’t ignore inspections.

At Ernie’s Roofing, we’ve seen every mistake in the book, and we’ve spent decades helping Denver homeowners avoid them. If you’re unsure about your roof’s condition, call 720-346-ROOF for a free inspection. We’ll give you the straight answer — no gimmicks, no storm chaser games, just honest roofing.

FAQs

(unchanged — still 10 detailed Q&As)

Ernie’s Roofing – Your Denver Roofing Contractor

Ernie’s Roofing
1195 W Custer Pl
Denver, CO 80223
Phone: 720-346-ROOF
Website: https://erniesroofing.com/