Are you thinking about working on your roof yourself? You might be thinking it could save you some money, especially if it is for a small repair. There are a few things you should consider first, however. The following guide covers a few reasons why DIY roof repairs could cost you.
It can be Dangerous
Roofing is one of the most dangerous professions. Professional roofers are well-trained in safety measures. If you are doing a DIY job, you may not know what precautions to take to keep you and others safe.
You could easily fall off the roof or ladder. Carrying heavy tools up and down the ladder can be dangerous and often ends in injury, especially for amateur roofers. If you don’t know what you are doing, you may not realize it if your roof is too damaged to walk on. DIY roof repair won’t just cost you in roofing costs. You or others could sustain injuries, costing you money in medical expenses.
Poor Insulation and Ventilation
If you are not a roofing professional, you may not realize how important proper insulation and ventilation are for your roof. Without proper ventilation, your roof could become too hot, and there is an increased risk of mold. Without proper insulation, your home could become either too hot or too cold. Not having enough insulation and ventilation can lead to higher costs in energy bills, not to mention bigger issues like the forming of ice dams or mold.
No knowledge of Permits
Professional roofers will know exactly what kinds of regulations are in your area, and what kinds of permits they need. If you are working on your roof yourself, you won’t have the same extensive knowledge that a professional has. If you don’t know what permits are required in your area, and you install a new roof anyway, you could get into trouble. You could end up getting citations for installing a roof without having the proper permits or meeting the right requirements.
No Warranty
Roofing materials usually come with a warranty. When those materials are not properly installed the warranty is voided. For example, asphalt shingles usually come with a warranty of 25-30 years, but only if they are properly installed. If you work on your roof yourself you risk voiding the warranty on your roof and any materials you are using. Also, professional roofing companies usually offer a workmanship warranty. If you do a DIY job, you won’t have the added benefit of a workmanship warranty.
You may Lose Money
The up-front costs of a DIY roofing job may be lower, so it is easy to see why a homeowner may choose to go that route. However, the added costs of additional repairs needed after a poor DIY job is done can add up.
A new roof is not as simple as installing new shingles. A roof is made of several parts that all act as one system to protect your home from heat, cold, damage from storms, and debris. All materials and parts of the roof must be carefully considered, measured, and executed correctly for a roof to be long-lasting and efficient. Professional roofers have the knowledge, experience, and tools to do all of this. With DIY you could easily skip a step and end up spending more money on costly repairs later.
Roof Advance has the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to assist you with all of your roofing needs. Contact us today for a free estimate.
