Replies

1. 
   Gabe_Martel | Nov 25, 2000 04:08pm | #1

   *
   Willis,

   We seem to get a lot of posts regarding jobsite arguments where we only get one version of the issue.

   Makes it hard to comment.

   IF the builder SAID that his roofing contractor was going to add the paper and repair the tears, THEN the builder should do what he said.

   Regardless of whether it's required or not.

   I assume, you're the one paying the bills so get what you've been promised.

   Gabe

1. 
   Mike_Smith | Nov 25, 2000 05:28pm | #2

   *willis , where do you live ?did they leave the bottom two feet out because the roofer was supposed to run a 3 foot strip of ice and water ?they started two feet up for a purpose....it's required here.... if you don't get immediate reassurance from your builder.. ask the building inspector ...

1. 
   Bob_Walker | Nov 25, 2000 05:48pm | #3

   *Willis,My understanding is that, technically, the roofing felt (tar paper) isn't considered a moisture barrier, but rather as a slip plain.However, I'd still want the paper installed so that it doesn't leak, and there should be something on those first 2 feet.I would speak with the builder and, without pre-judging, explain your concerns.While the contractor is ultimately responsible for work by his sub's, he can't be there all of the time.In my opnion, (and it's only that, and as Gabe veru properly noted, there are limited facts on the table) the builder should require the roofer to tear off what they've done and re-do it properly.You asked if it could result in big problems: if the shingles and flashings are properly installed, no.One has to wonder, however, if they will be, based on the current facts presented.You might consider getting an independent inspection by another contractor, building inspector or home inspector.Bob

1. 
   Willis_Keefe | Nov 26, 2000 12:15am | #4

   *I live in Columbia, SC where we don't get much ice.The framers put on the paper and left the bottom exposed becausethat's where they have their 2x4 toe kicks nailed from laying theOSB. I guess my concern is whether or not the OSB and house interior can handle this much water. And just how important is the tar paper?If the shingles are layed correctly does the condition of the paper underneath really matter?

1. 
   George_Abramshe | Nov 26, 2000 12:34am | #5

   *I've heard the pro's and con's of paper arguements before and I'll state again what I feel. With a roof your better safe than sorry, overkill is better. Your roof is your FIRST AND MOST IMPORTANT line of defense for water penetration. It's not just the structure that can get damaged but your personal possesions and furnishings also. I feel this holds true for Ice & Water barrier also. Even if you live in SC you can still have gutter backup due to debris, ice storms (as infrequent as they are), etc. Check with your builder, if you haven't paid for it, do it now and have them do it over. Do you want to take any chances??? It's really not worth it. Like the others said your the ultimate factor as far as options go. Paper and W&I shield are a second barrier to exposed nails, improper installation, etc,etc. One last point, I&W shield only works if installed with the bottom edge of the three feet wide roll directly above the top plate of your exterior walls(for ice dam protection). Ice dams occur from heat escaping through the roof over the interior of the house, so any eaves must be ice shielded along with the three feet above the top plate. In your case it would be five feet of roof. I'm not sure if SC needs this but why take the chance.

2. 
   blue_eyed_devil_ | Nov 26, 2000 02:04am | #6

   *Willis, the osb is designed to be rained on during the construction process. It will take a lot more rain than you have described. The water leaking out during the rain is a good thing. That means that the roofing materials is releasing the water, rather than trapping it.Like I stated recently in another post, my first house didn't have any paper, and showed no signs of leaking or premature failure aftr twenty years. The attic was properly ventilated and I think that is as important as paper.Since the builder assured you that you will have paper, make him stick to his word, or compensate you properly. To determine what it is worth, get an independent estimate and add a little for aggravation and liability. It will be very easy to determine if the roofers put the paper on. Just lift a shingle and show the builder.No matter what, don't lose sleep over this. Unless it contiues to drag out much longer. Then, see and attorney and hire a different roofer and builder.blue

2. 
   Willis_Keefe | Nov 26, 2000 02:04am | #7

   *
   The roof was papered except for the bottom 2 feet (eaves) all around the
   house. Then the rains came. The OSB has been rained on heavily 3 or 4
   times and lot of water has leaked into the interior thru places already
   papered (tears or improperly installed?)
   Our builder assured us that the paper would be fixed and finished by the
   roofers before they apply the shingles. Well I caught the roofers simply
   laying the shingles over the unpapered eaves (no more paper on site!)
   And they did not fix the areas that were leaking.
   Well they shingled about half the house and have not been back for 5 days. And now it's raining and leaking again.
   Am I getting my blood pressure up over nothing or could all this result
   in big problems in the future?