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Case Studies
One
Mold and Premature Deterioration Due to Insufficient Ventilation
A homeowner reached out when their roof, installed just ten years ago, began leaking unexpectedly. To make matters worse, his wife experienced an allergic reaction triggered by mold growth within the attic. Upon inspection, we discovered that the ceiling was retaining excessive heat and moisture due to non-existent eave or ridge vents. With no proper airflow, hot, humid air remained trapped inside the attic, causing the shingle material to deteriorate prematurely and allowing mold to take hold on the plywood decking beneath.
The homeowner was surprised to learn that insufficient ventilation could lead to such an outcome. To correct the issue, continuous intake and exhaust SmarVents were added, and a clear airflow path from the eaves to the ridge was ensured. The compromised sections of the roof were replaced, eliminating the mold concerns and restoring its structural integrity for long-term performance.
Two
Cathedral Ceiling Re-Engineered for Proper Ventilation
A charming home with a vaulted or “cathedral” ceiling was experiencing persistent moisture issues. The insulation had been installed tightly against the roof deck, effectively blocking ventilation channels and trapping heat and condensation in the ceiling cavity. Over time, this led to mold growth and weakened roofing materials. We determined that the best solution was to raise the roof deck by one inch to create an airspace between the insulation and the roof sheath. This re-engineering involved removing shingles and decking, sistering new rafters to provide the necessary clearance, and then re-decking. By ensuring dedicated space for airflow, the homeowner not only resolved the moisture problem but also improved energy efficiency and the overall lifespan of the roof.
Three
Low-Slope Roof Leaks from Improper Underlayment
Shortly after purchasing a fixer-upper, the new owners were shocked to find water stains and leaks throughout the living area, even though the roof was only 16 months old. The slope of the roof was 2:12—considered low-slope, which typically requires, at a minimum, a double-layer underlayment to prevent water infiltration. However, the house flipper had neglected this step, using a single layer of standard roofing felt that did not meet the manufacturer’s recommendations or local codes.
Corrective measures involved removing the existing shingles and underlayment entirely, then installing a proper double-layer underlayment system designed for low-slope roofs. By following best practices and adhering to the necessary code requirements, a watertight and durable roofing system was ensured for the owners.
Four
Flat TPO Roof with Ponding Issues and Improper Flashing
A homeowner’s insurance company flagged concerns about a flat TPO roof that was just a year old due to visible water stains. Upon inspection, we found that the roof had improper drainage and significant ponding, with water consistently sitting more than a quarter of an inch deep.
Compounding the issue was the wrong flashing installed along the edges, specifically a gravel stop flashing that effectively trapped water instead of allowing it to drain. Because of the lack of slope, the accumulated water wasn’t flowing off the roof, leading to premature membrane wear and increased risk of leaks.
The solution required a complete tear-off, installation of tapered polyiso insulation boards to create a proper slope, and the replacement of the gravel stop flashing with a drip edge appropriate for TPO roofing. With the new slope and correct flashing, water now drains efficiently, protecting the home and satisfying the insurance company’s requirements for a sound and properly designed roof system.
Five
Improper Roofing System Leads to Rotting Substrate
A homeowner reached out after discovering signs of rot and water damage in the roofing substrate over their patio. Upon inspection, it was identified that the flat patio roof had been covered with a single-ply, rolled roofing product that was not designed for flat applications. Because this product requires a slight pitch to properly shed water, moisture pooled on the roof and gradually seeped through the membrane, causing the substrate to deteriorate.
In an effort to stop the leak, the homeowner attempted to seal the seams with a waterproofing product; however, the ongoing water intrusion and improper installation meant that a more comprehensive solution was needed.
The solution involved removing the incorrectly installed roofing material entirely and replacing the rotted decking beneath. To ensure effective water drainage, tapered (sloping) polyiso insulation boards were installed, and a mechanically attached TPO membrane featuring heat-welded seams was attached. This new roofing system, designed specifically for flat or low-slope conditions, provided the homeowner with a long-term, water-tight solution that eliminated future concerns about leaks and substrate decay.