The Hidden Costs of Cut Corners: What to Watch for in Asphalt Shingle Roof Installations

At Fives Contracting, we’ve seen it all when it comes to roofing shortcuts. Unfortunately, the homeowners are usually the ones left footing the bill when these "cost-saving" measures lead to leaks, mold, or premature roof failure.

If you're investing in a new asphalt shingle roof, especially a GAF roofing system, it's critical that your contractor follows the manufacturer's specifications to the letter. Cutting corners not only voids your warranty — it puts your entire home at risk. Below are some of the most common installation mistakes we encounter on the job and how they directly conflict with GAF's installation requirements.

1. Improper Pipe Boot or Flange Installation

What Goes Wrong:We often see roofers install pipe flanges over the shingles instead of under the upper course of shingles. In some cases, they don’t use approved flashing boots at all — opting instead for a caulk-heavy “seal” that won't last more than a season or two.

GAF Requirement:GAF requires that all pipe boots or flashings be installed so that water sheds properly — typically under the shingle above and over the shingle below. This ensures that rainwater flows naturally off the roof and doesn’t pool or penetrate beneath the shingles.

Why It Matters:This one mistake can cause thousands in interior water damage. Worse yet, when it's not done to spec, your roof’s warranty may be voided.

2. Missing or Improper Drip Edge Installation

What Goes Wrong:Some contractors skip drip edge to save time or materials. Others improperly overlap or misalign it, compromising its function.

GAF Requirement:GAF’s installation guidelines call for drip edge at all eaves and rakes. It must be properly lapped (typically 2") and secured with fasteners spaced no more than 12" apart.

Why It Matters:Drip edge keeps water from wicking under the shingles and into the roof decking or fascia. Without it, you may see rot along the roofline, peeling paint, or even pest intrusion.

3. Improper Attic Ventilation

What Goes Wrong:Many installers don’t account for balanced intake and exhaust ventilation. Some skip ventilation upgrades altogether if it's “not in the budget” — even when the old roof had clear signs of heat and moisture damage in the attic.

GAF Requirement:GAF requires proper attic ventilation (typically 1:150 or 1:300 depending on conditions) to maintain the system warranty. This means an appropriate balance of intake vents (like soffits) and exhaust vents (like ridge vents or box vents).

Why It Matters:Poor ventilation leads to premature shingle aging, mold growth, ice damming in winter, and higher energy bills year-round. It’s one of the most overlooked yet essential aspects of a healthy roof system.

Other Commonly Overlooked Details

• Underlayment Quality: Cheaper contractors may opt for subpar underlayment instead of GAF-recommended options like Tiger Paw® or Deck-Armor™.

• Improper Nailing: GAF specifies nail placement, count, and depth. Nail too high, and the shingle may blow off. Nail too deep, and you compromise the integrity of the shingle.

• Skipping Starter Strips or Ridge Cap Shingles: GAF Starter Strip Shingles and TimberTex® Ridge Cap Shingles are required for system warranties. Substituting these with cut-up three-tab shingles is not compliant and voids warranty protection.

  
  

How Fives Contracting Protects Your Roof — and Your Investment

At Fives Contracting, we’re GAF-certified installers who follow every detail of the manufacturer’s guidelines — not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s the only way to ensure your warranty stays valid and your roof performs for decades.

We use only GAF system components, including pipe boots, ridge caps, synthetic underlayments, and drip edge — all installed with precision by certified professionals. And when it comes to attic ventilation, we take a holistic look at your home's airflow needs and offer solutions that are both code-compliant and energy-efficient.

Don’t Let a Cheap Roof Become an Expensive Problem

If your roof was installed with shortcuts, the damage may already be starting — even if it’s not visible yet. Contact Fives Contracting today for a professional roof inspection and peace of mind that your home is protected.

📞 Call us at (609) 457-3959

🌐 www.fivescontracting.com