Post-Installation Roofing Checklist: How to Know If Your Roofer Did a Good Job
The last nail is in, the crew has packed up, and your roof looks spotless—but how can you be sure it was installed correctly? A brand-new roof might look perfect from the ground, but real quality goes far deeper than what you can see. Your roof isn’t just another home upgrade—it’s your home’s first shield against wind, rain, hail, and heat. Making sure it was installed the right way is essential for long-term safety, energy efficiency, and protecting your home’s value.
Not every roofing contractor follows industry best practices—and shortcuts in installation or materials may not show up for months or even years. That’s why homeowners should take a proactive approach and inspect the finished work. You don’t need to be a professional to recognize quality craftsmanship; you just need to know what to look for. From proper flashing to a clean job site, this guide breaks down the key visual and structural indicators of a durable, professionally installed roof.
With the checklist below, you’ll be equipped to evaluate workmanship, spot early warning signs, and hold your contractor accountable—ensuring your investment truly pays off.
1. Visual Symmetry and Overall Appearance
A roof should look clean, consistent, and professionally executed. Beyond curb appeal, proper alignment and symmetry are essential for shedding water and resisting wind.
Shingles should form straight, uniform rows.
No exposed nails (except properly sealed ridge-cap nails).
No sagging, warping, or uneven areas.
Valleys and ridges should be clean, crisp, and well-defined.
2. Edges, Flashing, and Roof Penetrations
Flashing and edges are common failure points—precision is non-negotiable. Correctly installed flashing keeps water from infiltrating chimneys, walls, and vents.
Drip edges installed along all eaves.
Flashing sits flat and tight against roof and wall surfaces.
Vent pipes properly booted and sealed.
Step flashing installed along chimneys and sidewalls.
3. Attic and Interior Indicators
Your attic can reveal issues that the exterior hides. Moisture or ventilation problems often show up inside first.
No daylight visible through decking.
Proper intake and exhaust ventilation.
No water stains, damp insulation, or moisture.
Even airflow and consistent attic temperature.
4. Job-Site Cleanup
A clean work area reflects a contractor’s professionalism and respect for your property. It’s also essential for safety.
No leftover nails, shingles, or scraps.
Old materials fully removed.
Magnetic sweep used to collect metal debris.
Landscaping protected and gutters cleared of granules.
5. Water Management Systems
Your roof works hand-in-hand with gutters and downspouts to direct water safely away from your home.
Gutters and downspouts securely reinstalled.
Water flows freely with no overflowing.
Gutter guards or diverters installed if included.
No pooling or signs of poor drainage.
6. Material Quality and Verification
Confirm that you received the materials and products specified in your contract. Quality materials offer better durability and warranties.
Check packaging for correct brands and types.
Confirm specialty materials (impact-resistant shingles, synthetic underlayment, etc.).
Verify ventilation components.
Request receipts or delivery confirmations.
7. Warranty and Documentation
Proper paperwork protects your investment and is invaluable for resale and insurance claims.
Copies of workmanship and material warranties.
Clear explanation of warranty coverage.
Before-and-after photos of installation.
Confirmation of required permits and inspections.
8. Optional Rain Test
If possible, observe how your roof performs in rain—or simulate it with a hose.
Water sheds evenly and drains properly.
No leaks, damp spots, or attic drips.
No gutter overflow or backflow.
No water staining on soffits or fascia.
9. Contractor Reputation
Even after the job is done, it’s helpful to confirm that your contractor has a track record of reliability.
Read Google, Yelp, BBB, or Angie reviews.
Ask neighbors or past clients for feedback.
Verify they have a legitimate local business address.
Look for consistent praise or recurring complaints.
10. Red Flags After Completion
If you notice any of these issues, address them immediately before costly damage occurs.
Materials differ from what was promised.
Shingles lift, curl, or loosen soon after installation.
Flashing or vents appear loose or leaking.
Incomplete cleanup or nails left behind.
Contractor avoids follow-ups or withholds documentation.
Let Absolute Roofing Give You Peace of Mind!
If you’re unsure whether your roof was installed correctly—or simply want an expert to double-check—Absolute Roofing is here to help. For years, homeowners across southeast WI and northern IL area have trusted us for reliable service, transparent communication, and uncompromising workmanship.
We don’t cut corners. We do the job right the first time.
When you choose Absolute Roofing, you get a team that:
Treats your home like our own, with precision and protection at every step.
Uses premium materials backed by industry-leading warranties.
Employs certified, highly trained roofing professionals.
Communicates clearly and provides thorough documentation.
Stands behind every project with rock-solid workmanship guarantees and five-star service.
Whether you’re concerned about a recent installation or planning your next roofing project, we’re ready to provide honest, knowledgeable guidance. We’ll inspect your roof, explain any issues in clear terms, and recommend the best solutions—never with pressure or gimmicks.
Request a Professional Roof Inspection Today!
Don’t wait for the next storm to expose poor workmanship. Contact Absolute Roofing for a comprehensive post-installation inspection or to schedule a free roofing consultation. Gain confidence knowing your roof is strong, secure, and built to last.
Call us or request an appointment online—your home deserves the quality only a trusted local expert can deliver.
📱 Call now: 262-877-4444
🗓️ Schedule a FREE estimate here
📧 Email: contact@absoluteroof.com