This Roofing Mistake Cost a Homeowner $18,000 — Don't Let It Happen to You
- info2767100
- Jul 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 8
Sometimes, it's not a storm that destroys your roof. It's a small mistake - a corner cut, a layer skipped, a question never asked - that opens the floodgates. One Ottawa homeowner found that out the hard way when a roof replacement gone wrong spiralled into a full-blown disaster.
Let's break down what happened, why it matters, and how you can avoid the same fate - without spending a dime more than necessary.
The $18,000 Oversight: A Missing Layer Between Safety and Soaked Ceilings
The homeowner thought they were doing everything right. They hired a "budget-friendly" roofer, agreed to a re-shingle, and got what looked like a brand-new roof. But within just two years, water began seeping into the attic. By year three, their ceiling was discoloured, insulation was mouldy, and the wooden deck had rotted clean through.
The mistake?
No underlayment. No ice and water shield. No second chances.
The fix required:
Full deck replacement
Premium synthetic underlayment installation
Ice and water shield along all valleys and eaves
Re-shingling
Interior mould remediation
Labour, cleanup, and warranty inspection
Final bill: $18,000.
All because one layer was skipped during the original install.
What Is Roofing Underlayment — and Why Should You Care?
Think of underlayment as your roof's secret shield. It's the hidden layer between your shingles and the wooden deck. It's not flashy - but it matters.
Here's what it does:
Stops leaks before they reach the wood
Prevents mould, rot, and structural damage
Acts as a backup when shingles shift or blow away
Extends roof life by protecting your investment from below
In Ottawa's unforgiving climate - with snow, ice dams, and freeze-thaw cycles - underlayment isn't optional. It's essential.
Types of Underlayment: Choose Wisely
Not all underlayments are created equal. Here's a quick guide:
Type | Best For | Durability |
Asphalt-Saturated Felt | Older homes, tight budgets | Moderate |
Synthetic Underlayment | Modern homes, heavy weather zones | High |
Rubberized Membrane (Ice Shield) | Eaves, valleys, and around chimneys | Maximum |
Pro Tip: In Ottawa and Gatineau, synthetic + rubberized membrane is the gold standard.
How to Tell If Your Roof Is Missing This Critical Layer
You don't have to climb a ladder to sense trouble. Watch for these red flags:
Ceiling stains or bubbling paint
Shingles curling or blowing off
Ice dams forming in winter
Unusual attic humidity or insulation dampness
No permit record of underlayment installation
Still not sure? A good roofer, like Wolfenburg Roofing, can check your roof without even pulling up a shingle.
The True Cost of Cutting Corners
It's easy to think you're saving money by skipping "extras" like underlayment or ice shield.
But here's the math:
Upfront Savings | Down-the-Road Cost |
~$500–$1,000 | $10,000–$20,000 or more |
What you save today could cost you 25x more within a few years.
As they say, "Pay now - or pay more later."
What Smart Homeowners Do Differently
1. Ask Questions Before Signing
"Are you using synthetic underlayment?"
"Will ice and water shield be applied around all eaves and valleys?"
"Can I see the materials before installation?"
2. Get It in Writing
All layers should be in your contract: shingles, underlayment, flashing, vents, etc.
3. Don't Settle for the Lowest Bid
Cheaper isn't better. It's just incomplete.
4. Choose Reputation Over Convenience
Look for companies with real papers, insurance, and local references.
Don't Know Where to Start? Start With Wolfenburg Roofing
When it comes to something as critical as your roof, you want more than just shingles. You want assurance. You want Wolfenburg Roofing - Ottawa's #1 choice for trusted, high-quality roofing services.
Why Homeowners Choose Wolfenburg Roofing:
100% transparent pricing
Top-tier materials, installed to manufacturer specs
Skilled team with years of Ottawa-Gatineau experience
Licensed, bonded, insured, and warranty-backed
Whether it's a minor repair or a full replacement, we don't cut corners - and we never skip the details that matter most.
Summary
A roof isn't just a pile of shingles. It's a system. Each layer - from flashing to fasteners - plays a part in keeping your home safe.
One skipped step can cost thousands. One smart choice can save you decades of peace.
If you suspect something's wrong - or just want peace of mind - contact Wolfenburg Roofing for a free, honest, no-pressure roof assessment.
Your roof is your first defence against the elements. Trust it to a team that never skips the essentials.
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