Common Problems with Asphalt Shingle & Metal Roofs in Fort Wayne, Indiana (2026)

When most homeowners think about replacing their roof, they usually focus on one thing:

What is the cost?

But the truth is, cost is only one piece of the equation.

At Faze Construction, we believe homeowners in Fort Wayne should also understand the common problems that can occur with roofing systems, whether you choose asphalt shingles or metal roofing.

The reality is this:

A roof is only as good as the system underneath it.

Even the best shingles or metal panels can fail prematurely if the roof system is not installed properly.

Let’s break down the most common roofing problems we see in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Problem #1: Roofing Costs Continue to Increase Every Year

One of the biggest challenges homeowners face is rising roofing costs.

Shingle prices continue to increase almost every year. On average, roofing material costs have been rising around 5–10% annually, depending on the manufacturer and distributor.

This means the roof replacement you’re considering today will likely cost more next year—even if the exact same contractor does the exact same project.

This is why delaying a necessary roof replacement can sometimes become more expensive in the long run.

Problem #2: Asphalt Shingles Are Not a Complete Roofing System

Many homeowners think shingles alone protect their home.

That’s not true.

Shingles are only one layer of the roofing system.

A complete roof system includes:

• Decking
• Underlayment
• Ice & water barrier
• Ventilation
• Flashing
• Ridge vent system
• Shingles

If any one of these components fails, the roof can fail.

This is one of the biggest problems with roofing in general—many contractors focus only on the shingles and ignore the system underneath.

Problem #3: Improper Ice & Water Barrier Installation

One of the most common issues we see in Fort Wayne is improper ice and water installation.

Ice and water barrier is a waterproof adhesive membrane installed near the eaves of the roof (where the gutter lines are).

Its purpose is to protect your home from:

• Ice damming
• Wind-driven rain
• Water backup

The issue?

Many contractors install only one row of ice and water barrier.

In Indiana, the ice and water barrier should extend at least 24 inches inside the interior wall line.

For many homes, this means two rows are required, not one.

If this is done incorrectly, your roof becomes far more vulnerable to water intrusion during winter.

Problem #4: Poor Ventilation Causes Ice Damming

Ventilation is one of the most overlooked parts of a roofing system.

Poor ventilation often leads to:

• Excess attic heat
• Moisture buildup
• Reduced shingle lifespan
• Ice damming

Ice damming happens when heat escapes into the attic, warming the roof deck and melting snow.

That melted snow runs to the colder eaves and refreezes, causing water to back up underneath the shingles.

Once that happens, leaks can occur inside the home.

This is especially common in Fort Wayne winters.

Problem #5: Improper Ventilation Systems

Your roof needs balanced airflow.

Typically, the best ventilation system uses:

• Intake ventilation at the eaves (soffit vents)
• Exhaust ventilation at the ridge (ridge vent)

Problems happen when homes have mixed ventilation systems.

For example:

• Ridge vents
• Box vents
• Gable vents

When these systems are improperly combined, airflow becomes disrupted.

A common issue is leaving gable vents active when a home has ridge vent and soffit ventilation.

This can create negative airflow and reduce ventilation efficiency.

In some cases, especially during heavy snow or wind-driven storms, this can even pull snow or moisture into the attic.

Problem #6: Shingle Warranties Are Often Misunderstood

This is a big one.

Many homeowners hear things like:

• 30-year warranty
• 40-year warranty
• 50-year warranty

And assume they’re fully protected.

Unfortunately, that’s not always true.

Most manufacturer warranties do NOT cover storm damage, hail damage, or acts of God.

Even if the shingle has strong wind ratings, storm damage usually falls outside standard manufacturer coverage.

Manufacturer warranties typically only cover:

• Product defects
• Manufacturing defects
• Premature material failure unrelated to storm damage

They generally do not cover:

• Hail
• Severe wind events
• Falling trees
• Storm-related damage

This is why working with a contractor that understands both roofing and insurance claims can be extremely valuable.

Problem #7: Fastener Failure on Metal Roofs

Metal roofing is an excellent product—but it has its own challenges.

One common issue we see on older metal roofs involves fasteners.

Many older systems used standard exposed fasteners with rubber washers.

Over time, those washers can:

• Dry out
• Crack
• Shrink
• Fail

When that happens, water can seep around the fasteners and eventually create leaks.

This is one of the most common reasons older metal roofs begin failing.

Problem #8: Metal Roofs Without Purlin Systems Can Fail Prematurely

Another major issue with metal roofing is installation method.

Some contractors install metal roofing directly onto decking.

Others use a purlin system.

Purlins help create:

• Better structural support
• Improved airflow
• Greater uplift resistance

This gives the roof stronger performance during high winds and storms.

Metal roofs installed without proper structural support or upgraded fastener systems may experience premature failure.

How to Avoid Roofing Problems in Fort Wayne

The best way to avoid costly roofing issues is simple:

1. Get Your Roof Inspected

Know exactly what condition your roofing system is in.

2. Do Your Research on the Contractor

Not all roofing companies install roofs the same way.

3. Choose the Right Product

Your roofing system should fit your budget, goals, and long-term needs.

4. Work with a Company That Stands Behind Their Work

This is critical.

The installation matters just as much as the product.

At Faze Construction, we believe roofing should be about long-term protection—not just getting shingles installed.

That’s why we help homeowners throughout Fort Wayne make informed decisions about their roofing systems.

We also offer ongoing inspections and support to help ensure your roof continues performing at a high level long after installation.

Schedule a Roof Inspection with Faze Construction

If you’re concerned about your roof—or simply want to understand its condition—our team can help.

At Faze Construction, we provide homeowners in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas with:

• Roof inspections
• Detailed roof reports
• Repair recommendations
• Full roof replacement options
• Asphalt shingle and metal roofing systems

Contact Faze Construction today to schedule a professional roof inspection and make sure your home is properly protected.