Hiring a roof installer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a homeowner—especially in Coralville, where weather and time can be hard on your roof.

Between the heavy snowfall in winter, humid summers, and strong spring winds coming off the Iowa River, your roof needs to be built to handle a little bit of everything.

But here’s the catch: not every roofing contractor puts in the time, effort, or quality materials needed to do the job right.

Let’s go over some red flags to watch for before, during, and after your roofing project.

Key Takeaways

• Some Coralville roofers skip permits to dodge inspections which can lead to major problems during future home sales.
• Verbal-only estimates with no clear contract often signal rushed jobs and missing warranty details homeowners regret later.
• Reusing old flashing instead of installing new is a common shortcut that causes leaks after Coralville’s wet spring months.
• Rushed tear-offs hide roof deck damage especially in older homes near University Heights where moisture builds fast.
• Roofers with no local references or permanent address often vanish after storms leaving people with half-finished repairs.

They Skip the Permit Process

In Coralville, any significant roofing work usually requires a permit from the city. If your contractor tells you a permit from Coralville isn’t necessary, that’s a big red flag.

Skipping this step may mean they’re trying to avoid inspections or local building codes—both of which are there to protect you.

Local tip: Coralville’s city code enforcement is strict, especially in neighborhoods like Wickham and North Ridge. A missing permit could come back to haunt you during a home sale or inspection.

No Written Estimate or Contract

A reputable roof installer will always provide a clear, written estimate that outlines labor, materials, warranties, and the project timeline. If you’re getting vague responses or verbal-only agreements, that’s a warning sign.

Look out in areas like Oakdale and Coral Crossing—these newer developments often attract out-of-town contractors chasing quick jobs. Be sure everything is documented before anyone climbs on your roof.

They Reuse Old Flashing or Materials

Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is crucial in Coralville, especially during spring when rain and melting snow are common. A shortcut some roofers take is reusing old flashing instead of installing new, which can cause leaks within months.

Pro tip: In older Coralville homes, especially near Central Elementary or along 12th Avenue, aged flashing is a common issue. Ask your contractor if they’re replacing all flashing as part of the job.

They Rush the Tear-Off Process

A proper tear-off means removing all layers of the old roofing material.

Some installers cut corners by only partially removing shingles or skipping over problem spots. This leaves hidden damage underneath that can rot your roof deck—an issue that affects both roof repair and full roof replacement.

In Coralville’s University Heights area, where many homes are decades old, skipping a full tear-off can mean moisture and mold problems later, especially with our humid summer climate.

Lack of Local References or No Local Presence

If the installer can’t provide recent references from Coralville homeowners, has no online reviews, or lacks a local office, that’s a red flag.

Fly-by-night roofers often show up after major storms—especially around Morrison Park or near Coral Ridge Mall—offering fast jobs at cheap rates.

Ask for addresses of recent work, look up their online reviews, and check the business’s local reputation. A trustworthy roofer won’t hesitate to share customer contacts and proof of jobs nearby.

They Don’t Offer or Honor a Warranty

A solid workmanship warranty is a must. If your roof installer avoids discussing warranties or gives vague answers about coverage, that’s another major red flag.

In Iowa, extreme temperature swings and windstorms are common, so a reliable warranty is essential.

Poor Clean-Up or Disorganized Job Sites

A messy job site can be more than just an eyesore—it’s a sign of carelessness. Loose nails, leftover shingles, and unsafe equipment should never be left around.

In family-friendly neighborhoods like Brown Deer or near the Coralville Youth Sports Complex, safety and professionalism matter, especially if kids or pets are nearby.

What to Do After Spotting These Observations

If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t ignore them.

• Press pause on the project and ask direct questions.
• Request documentation, inspect the work (or hire a home inspector to do it).
• Don’t be afraid to walk away if the answers don’t feel right.

It’s better to lose a deposit than pay for a full roof redo in a year or two.

Don’t Gamble With Your Roof—Get It Done Right

Cutting corners now often leads to costly leaks and repairs down the line.

At Five Star Home Improvement, we take pride in doing things the right way—from securing Coralville permits to cleaning up thoroughly when we’re done.

We use quality materials, provide clear contracts, and stand behind our work with strong warranties. Whether you’re near Coralville Reservoir, along Holiday Road, or in the heart of town, we’ve got your roof covered.

Want peace of mind?

Call us or send us an online inquiry today to make sure your next roofing job is done right from start to finish.