Don’t Forfeit Your Insurance Claim
Attempting DIY roofing work is an endeavor fraught with hazards and drawbacks for homeowners. Though the temptation to save money by replacing shingles or making repairs yourself may be strong, the risks involved with roofing projects for non-professionals far outweigh any potential benefits.
The first and most serious risk is that of injury or death due to falls. Working at heights on an angled, slippery roof requires safety knowledge and equipment that most homeowners lack. Losing your footing and falling from a ladder or the roof itself can result in devastating, life-altering injuries. Professional roofers have specialized safety training and harness systems to prevent falls.
Even if you avoid any accidents, the physical demands of roofing work bring a high risk of strains and sprains, especially for DIYers without proper lifting technique. Hauling heavy bundles of shingles up a ladder and maneuvering them across your roof is exhausting and precarious. Miscalculations with placement or nailing can damage the structural integrity of your roof deck.
Speaking of technique, roofing requires specialized skills and know-how to properly install waterproof underlayment, shingles, flashing, vents, and more so that the end result sheds water reliably. Novices are prone to mistakes that can lead to leaks, mold growth, and big repair bills down the road. Why invest money in supplies just to risk wasting it on an amateur effort?
- Safety – Working on a roof involves dangerous heights and risks of falling, injury, or death if proper safety precautions are not taken. Proper harnesses, ropes, roof jacks/braces, and training are needed.
- Skill – Roofing requires skills and knowledge the average homeowner doesn’t have about materials, proper installation techniques, flashing, weatherproofing, etc. Mistakes can lead to leaks or other issues.
- Physical demands – Roofing work is physically strenuous, especially tearing off old roofing. Hauling heavy bundles of shingles up ladders is challenging. Proper technique is needed to avoid injury.
- Tools & equipment -Specialized roofing tools like ladders, lifts, nail guns, generators, and ventilation equipment are expensive for a homeowner to purchase or rent.
- Time – DIY roofing takes significantly longer vs professional crews who can complete the work efficiently. Time spent is greater and the roof is exposed longer.
- Warranties – Professional installer warranties may be invalid if self-installed. Manufacturing defects won’t be covered.
- Damage risks – Risks of damaging gutters, siding, landscaping, or yourself/property are much higher without experience.
- Permitting – Permits are required for roof work in many areas, and improper installation may fail inspections.
- Cleanup – Removal and disposal of roofing debris, old shingles, etc. is included in professional services. DIYers must handle their own dumping.
In the end, safety and peace of mind make hiring professional roofers the only sensible choice. They have the tools, training and experience to efficiently reroof or repair your home properly the first time. Your safety and a durable roof over your head are worth investing in.
