Case Study:
How We Corrected Hidden Roofing Problems on a West Hurley Home
Project Type: Residential Roof Replacement
Location: West Hurley, NY (Ulster County)
Home Style: Single-Story Ranch
The Initial Inspection
When the owners of this 1959 ranch home contacted us, they already knew their roof was nearing the end of its life.
They had experienced recurring leaks around the chimney for years and had been applying roofing tar around the flashing as a temporary fix. After a winter of heavy snow and ice dams, they were concerned the roof had sustained additional damage and wanted to replace it before the problem became worse.
During our inspection, we identified several issues. There was a soft spot near the chimney that suggested water intrusion, and we found that the existing ridge vent had been roofed over during a previous roof replacement, preventing the attic from ventilating properly. We also noted that the main roof had been covered with rolled roofing, which did not appear to be the appropriate roofing material for the roof’s slope.
We discussed these concerns with the homeowners and explained that while our inspection revealed several known issues, some conditions can’t be confirmed until the existing roofing materials are removed. They understood there was a possibility of hidden damage once the project began.
Installation Day: What We Found
Once our crew began removing the old roof, we uncovered additional problems that couldn’t be seen during the initial inspection.
The existing roofing material had been installed directly over the plywood roof deck without the protective layers that are part of a properly installed roofing system. There was no underlayment and no ice and water shield beneath the roofing material.
Because the roofing material had been attached directly to the plywood, it couldn’t be removed without damaging the decking underneath. Even plywood that appeared to be in good condition couldn’t be salvaged, and we knew we would have to replace the entire roof deck.
While unexpected, discoveries like this are one of the reasons we explain the possibility of hidden conditions before every roof replacement. Some of the most important components of a roofing system remain out of sight until the existing roof is removed.
Our Solution
With the existing roof removed, we rebuilt the roofing system from the decking up.
The project included replacing the entire plywood roof deck before installing the proper protective layers, including an ice and water shield and the other components that help create a complete roofing system.
Because this home has two roof sections with different pitches, each required the appropriate roofing material.
With the existing roof removed, we rebuilt the roofing system from the decking up.
The project included replacing the entire plywood roof deck before installing the proper protective layers, including an ice and water shield and the other components that help create a complete roofing system.
Because this home has two roof sections with different pitches, each required the appropriate roofing material.
We also completed several important improvements that addressed issues identified during our inspection, including:
- Installing a new ridge vent to restore proper attic ventilation
- Replacing inadequate chimney flashing
- Installing missing sidewall flashing
- Replacing the home’s plumbing vent pipe with a new, updated vent
- Performing a thorough cleanup and final inspection
Every component was installed to work together as a complete roofing system designed to better protect the home from the Hudson Valley’s changing weather.
The Result
Despite uncovering significant hidden conditions after the roof was opened, our crew completed the entire project in a single day while keeping the homeowners informed throughout the process.
The finished roof includes proper ventilation, modern moisture protection, new flashing, and roofing materials that are appropriate for each section of the home.
Since the installation, the homeowners have experienced multiple heavy rainstorms without the chimney leaks that had become an ongoing concern.
Just as importantly, they now have confidence knowing the roofing system beneath the shingles was built correctly—not simply covered over.
“We knew our roof needed to be replaced, but we never expected to find so many hidden problems underneath. The Sheeley team kept us informed every step of the way and rebuilt our roof the right way. The crew rebuilt our entire roof in a single day, cleaned up thoroughly, and the new roof looks fantastic. We no longer worry every time it rains, and we are so grateful to everyone at Sheeley for that peace of mind!”
– I.J., homeowner
What Homeowners Can Learn from This Project
This project is a good reminder that a roof’s condition isn’t always visible from the outside.
Some issues—like worn flashing or blocked ventilation—can often be identified during an inspection. Others may not be discovered until the existing roof is removed.
That’s why we take the time to thoroughly inspect every roof, explain what we find, and prepare homeowners for the possibility of hidden conditions before work begins. If unexpected issues arise during the project, we communicate them clearly and explain the options before moving forward.
For us, a successful roofing project is about more than the finished roof. It’s about keeping homeowners informed, making the process as smooth as possible, and leaving them with confidence in both the work and the team behind it.
If your roof is aging, leaking, or showing signs of wear, we’d be happy to inspect it, answer your questions, and help you understand the condition of your roofing system and your options for repair or replacement.
