Key Takeaways:

1. Look for leftover materials, uneven shingles, or damaged gutters. These are early signs of poor workmanship.
2. Check shingles, flashing, attic ventilation, and gutters. Misaligned shingles or gaps in flashing mean leaks could return.
3. Returning leaks, popped nails, or new water stains means the repair wasn’t done right.
4. A professional roof inspection catches hidden problems DIY checks might miss.
5. Hire reputable contractors, ask for warranties, and don’t just pick the cheapest option.

You just paid good money for roof repairs. The contractor packed up their tools and said, "All set!" But how do you really know the job was done right?

In Illinois, where heavy snow, summer storms, and freezing temperatures test roofs year-round, a bad repair can lead to water intrusion, mold growth, and costly repairs down the road. You shouldn’t need to be a roofing expert to spot problems.

That’s why we created this simple roof repair inspection checklist—so you can check the work yourself and catch signs of poor workmanship before they turn into disasters.

First Things First: Give It a Visual Check

Before climbing a ladder, do a walk around your house. Look for these red flags:

• Piles of old roofing materials left behind (nails, shingles, or flashing). A pro clean up after themselves.
• Uneven or wavy roof lines – Fresh repairs should blend smoothly with the rest of your roof.
• Dented or bent gutters – This often means workers weren’t careful on your roof.

Spot any of these? It might mean rushed or sloppy work.

Check These 5 Key Areas for Quality Work

1. Shingles (If You Have Them)

For asphalt shingles, look for:

• Proper alignment – New shingles should line up straight with the old ones.
• Secure nails – No lifted edges or exposed nails (these cause leaks).
• Matching color – Close enough that repairs don’t stick out like a sore thumb.

Warning: If new shingles look crooked or buckled, they might not seal properly against wind and rain.

2. Flashing Around Chimneys and Vents

Flashing (the metal strips sealing gaps) is where many leaks start. Check that:

• It’s tightly sealed with no gaps.
• No old caulk is peeling away.
• It lies flat against the roof (not bent or loose).

Fun fact: Over 90% of leaks happen at flashing points, not in open roof areas.

3. The Roof Deck (From Your Attic)

Grab a flashlight and head upstairs. Look for:

• Water stains or dark spots on wood (means leaks are still happening).
• Daylight peeking through – Big red flag for gaps.
• Soft or spongy wood – Indicates rot from ongoing water damage.

This is where hidden problems live. If the deck wasn’t repaired properly, you’ll see evidence here first.

4. Ventilation

Poor attic ventilation causes mold growth and high energy bills. After repairs:

• Make sure vents aren’t blocked by debris or new materials.
• Feel for airflow in your attic (stale air = bad news).

Hot tip: In winter, check for ice dams—a sign your ventilation isn’t working right.

5. Gutters and Downspouts

Repairs can accidentally mess up the drainage. Verify:

• Gutters are securely attached (no sagging).
• Water flows freely (no clogs from roofing debris).
• Downspouts direct water away from your foundation.

Signs Your Roof Repair Was Done Wrong

Some issues scream "Call the contractor back!" Watch for:

• Leaks that return within weeks – The #1 sign of poor workmanship.
• Nails popping out – This means they didn’t fasten the shingles correctly.
• Missing drip edge – That metal strip along the roof’s edge prevents water intrusion.
• Stains reappearing on ceilings – Indicates hidden leaks still active.

If you see these, don’t wait. The longer water gets in, the worse the structural damage becomes.

When to Call a Professional Roofing Contractor

Some things you just can’t DIY. Get a professional roof inspection if:

• You’re unsure about the repair quality.
• The attic shows signs of water damage but no visible leaks.
• Your energy bills suddenly spike (could be poor insulation work).

At Advanced Roofing Inc., our professional inspections include thermal imaging to find hidden moisture that most companies miss.

How to Avoid Bad Roof Repairs Next Time

Prevention beats panic. When hiring a roofing contractor:

• Check reviews – Look for complaints about poor workmanship.
• Ask for before/after photos – Reputable contractors document their work.
• Get a warranty – At least 1 year on labor is standard.

Remember: Cheap repairs often cost more in the long run.

Need a Second Opinion on Recent Repairs?

If your gut says something’s off with your roof, trust it. Advanced Roofing Inc. offers free inspections to Illinois homeowners—no pressure, just honest advice.

We’ll help you:

• Verify repair quality with our roof repair inspection checklist.
• Spot signs of damage that others overlook.
• Plan fixes that actually last.

Don’t let a bad repair lead to extensive damage. Call us today, and sleep easy knowing your roof is done right.

Your home (and wallet) deserve that peace of mind.