A roof replacement is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home, and for most Winston-Salem homeowners, it’s a decision that comes around once every 20 to 30 years. When that time comes, the stakes are high. Many homeowners, in an attempt to save money, make critical errors that cost them thousands more in the long run, and we’ve seen it happen again and again in neighborhoods throughout Forsyth County.
As Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters, a local roofing company with an office right here in Waughtown, we’ve witnessed the expensive consequences of these common mistakes, and more importantly, we’ve had to fix them. This article isn’t about how to replace your roof–it’s a warning on what not to do.
Mistake #1: Automatically Choosing the Cheapest Quote
The “Apples-to-Oranges” Problem
You get three estimates for a “new roof.” One comes in at $8,000. Another at $12,000. The third at $15,500. Your first instinct? Go with the cheapest one. But here’s what most homeowners don’t realize: those three quotes aren’t for the same job.
The $8,000 bid might not include:
- New flashing around chimneys and valleys
- Quality synthetic underlayment
- A decking allowance for rotted wood
- Ice and water shield at vulnerable areas
- Proper ventilation upgrades
That “cheap” contractor is betting your roof deck is perfect. If it’s not, you’ll pay extra–or worse, they’ll nail right over the rot.
The True Cost of a “Cheap Roof” in North Carolina
Our climate here in Winston-Salem is brutal on roofs.
We deal with:
- High summer heat that bakes shingles
- Heavy humidity year-round
- Severe storms with high winds
- Freeze-thaw cycles in winter
Substandard materials and sloppy installation will fail fast under these conditions. A cheap roof replacement often means a lifespan of 8 to 10 years instead of 25 or more. Do the math. You’ll be paying for another roof twice as soon.
Mistake #2: Hiring a “Storm Chaser” Instead of a True Local Company
The Red Flag: “I Was Just in Your Neighborhood…”
After a hailstorm rolls through Winston-Salem, they appear like clockwork.
Out-of-state contractors in white vans. Knocking on doors. “We were just working on your neighbor’s roof. Noticed some damage on yours.”
These are storm chasers. And they’re here to make a quick buck.
Here’s the problem: they’re gone within weeks. When that new roof starts leaking in two years, who are you going to call? A disconnected phone number.
Why a Local Address (Like 179 Waughtown St) Matters
Accountability matters. We live and work here in Winston-Salem. Our families shop at the same stores you do. Our reputation is on the line with every single job. If something goes wrong, you know exactly where to find us. Local knowledge matters too.
We understand:
- Forsyth County permitting requirements
- Weather patterns specific to this region
- The age and condition of homes from West End to Waughtown
- Which materials hold up best in North Carolina’s climate
When you hire truly local roofing companies, you’re hiring someone with skin in the game.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Your Attic’s Ventilation
“Cooking” Your New Shingles from the Inside Out
You just spent $15,000 on a beautiful new roof. But if your attic ventilation is inadequate, you’re cooking those shingles from the inside out. Here’s what happens: A poorly ventilated attic acts like an oven. On a 95-degree summer day, your attic can hit 150 degrees or more. That superheated air radiates down onto the roof deck, baking your shingles.
The result of superheated air on the roof deck
- Premature shingle curling
- Accelerated granule loss
- Warped decking
- A roof that should last 25 years but fails in 12
This is one of the leading causes of early roof failure. And most homeowners have no idea it’s happening.
The North Carolina Humidity & Mold Trap
It’s not just summer heat you need to worry about.
In winter, warm air from your home rises into a poorly ventilated attic. When it hits the cold roof deck, condensation forms.
That trapped moisture leads to:
| Problem | Consequence |
| Mold growth | Spreads to insulation and framing |
| Rotted roof decking | Compromises structural integrity |
| Ruined insulation | Higher energy bills |
| Premature shingle failure | Shortened roof lifespan |
A good roofer doesn’t just look at your shingles. We inspect your soffit vents, ridge vents, and overall attic airflow. If it’s not adequate, we’ll tell you–and fix it as part of your roof replacement.
Mistake #4: Agreeing to a “Nail-Over” or “Layover”
What Dangers Are You Covering Up?
Some contractors will offer to install new shingles right over your old ones. They call it a “nail-over” or “layover.” It sounds convenient. And cheaper. Don’t do it. Here’s why: you can’t see the “bones” of your roof without a full tear-off.
Your roof decking could have:
- Soft spots from old leaks
- Hidden rot
- Failed flashing around chimneys
- Water damage you don’t even know about
A nail-over just covers it all up. Out of sight, out of mind. Until the whole thing fails.
Why It’s a Bad Investment
There are two more big problems with layovers:
- Warranty Issues: Most shingle manufacturers will not honor their warranty if you install new shingles over an old layer. You’re voiding your protection on day one.
- Structural Stress: Adding a second layer of shingles means adding thousands of pounds of weight to your roof structure. Older homes weren’t designed for that load. We always recommend a complete tear-off. It’s the only way to ensure your new roof is built on a solid foundation.
Mistake #5: Neglecting Your Gutters During a Roof Replacement
Your Roof and Gutters Are One System
Here’s something most homeowners don’t think about: your roof and gutters work together as one integrated system. A brand-new roof will fail prematurely if your gutters are clogged, sagging, or damaged, because all that water has to go somewhere. When gutters can’t do their job properly, water backs up under the shingles, pours over the sides, and soaks the fascia boards, and pools around your foundation. Your beautiful new roof? It’s already compromised before it even has a chance to reach its expected lifespan.
The Perfect Time for an Upgrade
When you’re investing in roof replacement, it’s the perfect time to upgrade your gutters too.
At Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters, we offer complete gutter solutions:
- Seamless gutter installation
- GutterShutter systems that never clog
- Proper downspout placement and grading
- Gutter guards that last as long as your roof
Think of it as protecting your investment. You wouldn’t buy a new car and skip the oil changes.
Mistake #6: Not Understanding Your Warranty (Manufacturer vs. Workmanship)
“This Roof Has a 30-Year Warranty!”
We hear this all the time. A homeowner tells us their last roofer promised a “30-year warranty.”
But when the roof starts failing at year 8, they discover the truth. The manufacturer’s warranty only covers defective materials. If there’s nothing wrong with the shingles themselves, you’re out of luck.
It doesn’t cover:
- Installation errors
- Wind damage from improper nailing
- Leaks from bad flashing
- Premature wear from poor ventilation
GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning–they all work the same way. Materials only.
The Most Important Guarantee: The Workmanship Warranty
This is the contractor’s promise that they installed your roof correctly. This is the warranty that actually matters. When you’re comparing roof replacement companies near Winston-Salem, ask these questions:
- What’s your workmanship warranty period?
- Is it in writing?
- What exactly does it cover?
- Will you still be in business to honor it?
We provide a comprehensive workmanship warranty on every roof we install. And because we’re local to Waughtown, you know we’ll be here to stand behind it.
Mistake #7: Signing a Vague, One-Page Contract
If It’s Not in Writing, It Doesn’t Exist
You meet with a contractor who walks around your roof, scribbles some numbers on a clipboard, and hands you a one-page estimate that says: “New roof – $10,500.” Run. A proper estimate is multiple pages long, itemized, detailed, and leaves nothing to chance. If a contractor can’t provide specifics about what’s included in your roof replacement, that’s a massive red flag that should send you looking elsewhere.
The Non-Negotiable Contract Checklist
Before you sign anything, make sure your contract includes:
| Item | Why It Matters |
| Full tear-off and disposal | Confirms they’re not doing a nail-over |
| Specific shingle brand and color | Prevents bait-and-switch with cheaper materials |
| Synthetic underlayment | Superior to old felt paper |
| New ice and water shield | Critical protection at eaves and valleys |
| Complete flashing replacement | Chimneys, valleys, skylights, vents |
| Decking allowance | Cost per sheet for rotted wood replacement |
| Ventilation inspection/upgrade | Protects your investment long-term |
| Gutter inspection | Identifies potential drainage issues |
| Cleanup and debris removal | Ensures your property is left pristine |
| Payment schedule | Never pay in full up front |
If a contractor won’t provide this level of detail, they’re not the right fit for your roof replacements.
How to Make the Right Choice for Your Winston-Salem Roof Replacement
The Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters Promise: Transparency and Quality
We’ve outlined seven expensive mistakes homeowners make, and here’s how we help you avoid every single one. We’re local, with our office at 179 Waughtown St in Winston-Salem, so we’re not disappearing after the job is done. We provide itemized quotes so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting, from the underlayment to the final nail.
We inspect the full system, including your attic ventilation, gutters, flashing, and decking–not just the shingles. We always do a complete tear-off with no shortcuts and no hidden problems. Most importantly, we back our work with a strong workmanship warranty in writing, guaranteed. As one of the trusted roofing companies serving Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas, we’ve built our reputation on quality, transparency, and reliability.
About Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters
Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters is a trusted roofing contractor serving Winston-Salem, Waughtown, and throughout Forsyth County, North Carolina. We specialize in roof replacement, roof repair, gutter installation, siding, and window services. With our local office at 179 Waughtown St, we’re dedicated to providing transparent estimates, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service.
Our team understands North Carolina’s unique climate challenges and uses only premium materials backed by solid workmanship warranties. Whether you need a complete roof replacement or a gutter upgrade, we’re here to protect your home for decades to come.
Your Next Step: Get a Free, No-Mistake Estimate
Don’t risk a costly error on your biggest home investment. Contact Big Anchor Roofing & Gutters today for a free, transparent, and comprehensive estimate for your roof replacement.
We’ll walk your property. Inspect your attic. Answer every question. And provide a detailed, itemized proposal with no surprises. Call us at (336) 745-9534 or email bi**************@***oo.com to schedule your free consultation. Your home deserves a roof that lasts. Let’s make sure you get it right the first time.
