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Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Planning a New Roof (and How to Avoid Them)

Your new roof is one of the most important parts of your home, it protects everything beneath it. But when planning a new roofing project, many homeowners (and even some builders!) make simple mistakes that can cost time, money, and peace of mind.

Here are the top five pitfalls we see at Riggall Roofing, and how to avoid them on your Cambridge project.

Roofing team installing a new roof on a Cambridge property

1. Leaving Roofing Decisions Too Late

Roofing often gets left until the last minute, but it plays a huge role in your home’s structure and aesthetics. Waiting too long can lead to limited material choices or timeline delays.

Tip: Talk to your roofer early, ideally before framing begins, to lock in lead times and colour selections.

2. Choosing the Wrong Material for the Environment

Cambridge’s weather can shift quickly, with humidity, rainfall, and temperature swings. Picking materials not suited to the conditions can shorten your roof’s lifespan.

Solution: Choose locally proven products like COLORSTEEL® Long Run Roofing or GERARD metal tile, both engineered for New Zealand’s environment and backed by long warranties.

3. Ignoring Roof Design and Pitch

Every roof material performs best at certain pitches. Installing a tile roof on a low slope or a long run roof on an overly complex shape can lead to drainage or water pooling issues.

Tip: Consult your roofing specialist early, Riggall Roofing can recommend the right material and profile for your design and pitch.

4. Overlooking Fascia and Guttering

A roof is only as good as its water management system. Neglecting fascia and gutters can cause leaks, overflow, and damage to your home’s foundations or landscaping.

Solution: Choose a company (like us!) that installs complete systems, roof, fascia, and guttering, so everything works seamlessly together.

Matching fascia and guttering installation for a new Cambridge roof

5. Not Checking Credentials or Warranties

Not all roofers are created equal. Poor installation can void warranties and lead to costly repairs.

Tip: Always choose an LBP-qualified and RANZ-member roofing company. At Riggall Roofing, every installation meets NZ building code and is backed by manufacturer and workmanship warranties.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes can save you thousands and ensure your roof looks and performs beautifully for decades.

Whether you’re building a new home, upgrading your current one, or managing a development in Cambridge, Riggall Roofing is your trusted partner for reliable, professional service.

Need a free quote or expert advice?
Get your Cambridge roofing quote today, delivered within 48 hours ➔