What are the most common causes of roof leaks?

Common causes of roof leaks include improperly installed or sized fasteners, deteriorated underlayment, failed seals around penetrations, damaged flashing, off-center screws, and long-term moisture intrusion. Metal roofs often leak when screws loosen, holes enlarge, boots deteriorate, or water follows fastener lines into the structure.

How do I know if my roof was installed or repaired incorrectly?

Warning signs include recurring leaks after repairs, uneven or off-center screw lines, visible gaps, attic staining, rapidly darkening wood, rust trails beneath panels, silicone or caulk covering damaged areas, and multiple service visits without a clear written diagnosis. Independent roof inspections can help confirm potential installation or repair issues.

Can the wrong screw size cause metal roof leaks?

Yes. Using screws that are too small or mismatched to existing holes can lead to loose fasteners and water wicking along screw threads. Over time, this can enlarge holes, allow moisture into the substrate, and contribute to rot, staining, and structural damage beneath a metal roof.

Why is my metal roof still leaking after multiple repairs?

If a metal roof continues leaking after repairs, the underlying cause may not have been identified. In some cases, only surface symptoms are patched while deeper issues such as rotted purlins, compromised substrate, misaligned fasteners, or prior concealed damage remain unaddressed.

How should I document roof damage and contractor visits?

Take dated photos before and after every visit, save all proposals and invoices, keep copies of emails and written messages, and maintain a timeline of when leaks appeared and when inspections occurred. Photograph attic staining, fastener patterns, moisture trails, and any visible repairs. This documentation is important for insurance claims, licensing board complaints, or legal review.

Is attic staining or darkened wood a serious issue?

Yes. Staining, darkening, blackening, or visible moisture paths in the attic are often early signs of repeated water intrusion. These conditions deserve prompt investigation by a qualified inspector or roofing professional to prevent further deterioration of framing, decking, or purlins.

What should I do if my roofing contractor stops responding?

Follow up in writing, requesting a response, documentation of prior visits, and a proposed plan to address ongoing issues. If communication still stops, consider contacting your state licensing board, your insurer, or an independent roofing inspector. Continued silence can be a sign the issue needs third-party review.

How can I get an unbiased assessment of roof damage?

Hire an independent roof inspector or qualified roofing professional who is not affiliated with the original contractor. Independent inspectors can evaluate fastener patterns, substrate condition, leak sources, prior repairs, and whether a repair or full replacement is more appropriate.

Can a metal roof cause wood rot underneath?

Yes. When water enters through fasteners, seams, or penetrations and repeatedly reaches the wood structure, it can cause rot, mold, and structural weakening over time. Proper fastener installation, underlayment, and timely repair of leaks are critical to protecting the underlying wood.

Are recurring leaks really 'normal' for metal roofs?

No. While metal roofs expand and contract with temperature changes, a properly installed and maintained metal roof should not have recurring leaks. Persistent leaks, especially in the same locations or along screw lines, indicate issues that need further investigation.

When should I consider filing a complaint with a Licensing Board or similar agency?

You may consider filing a complaint if a contractor repeatedly fails to resolve documented issues, stops responding to written communication, or provides explanations that do not match visible evidence. Licensing Board complaints create an official record that can be useful if further action becomes necessary.

What search terms are helpful when researching roofing contractors?

Useful search terms include 'roofing contractor near me', 'metal roof leak repair', 'roof inspection Tennessee', 'roof rot signs', 'residential roofing repair', 'commercial roofing company', 'roof fastener failure', 'roofing contractor complaints', and '[company name] reviews'. These queries can help homeowners find independent information and patterns in customer feedback.

Rackley Roofing – Documented Consumer Experience | Chris Clemens

About This Portfolio

This portfolio documents a verified, multi-year consumer experience with Rackley Roofing (R.D. Herbert & Sons) in Tennessee, from initial workmanship failures through legal correspondence, state licensing complaints, and the ongoing rebuild process.

Each entry combines factual evidence (photos, correspondence, inspections, and estimates) with personal reflection on what accountability, integrity, and transparency look like in practice.

The goal of this archive isn’t defamation or dispute - it’s education.
By presenting a full, documented timeline, this portiolio aims to help homeowners, contractors, and regulators understand how silence, process delays, and nontransparent settlements can impact real families — and how ethical practice can prevent it.

This is an evolving record of events, verified through documentation and shared publicly to promote accountability within the construction and service industries.