Having a new roof installed on your forever home is a huge investment that can raise the appeal and value of your home. The costs of a new roof may scare you, especially when you consider the high cost of a professional roofing contractor. You may think about doing your roofing by yourself, especially if you’ve already done plenty of other DIY projects around the house. Knowing the benefits and hazards of DIY vs. professional roof installation before you commit to the job or the price will help you make the most effective decision for your home.
DIY Roofing
If you decide to install or repair your own roof, you’ll save costs on labor—but you’ll need to pay for materials and equipment. If you buy your own equipment, though, you can use the tools for future roof maintenance. However, doing your own roof repairs or installation is not a DIY project for novices. If you don’t have prior experience with home construction projects, it’s likely not the job for you. Many of the tools used in roofing are both expensive and dangerous to the untrained individual, and a DIY roof installation is dangerous if you don’t have the proper safety equipment. Your roof is high up off the ground, and any tumble could put your life in danger. Furthermore, mistakes during roof installation can result in costly damage in other areas of the house, such as the attic. Your home’s structure can sustain damage if the roof begins to leak. If you aren’t properly trained to work on roofs, you may not know to look for the sure signs of hazardous roof damage.
Still, many roofing companies hold DIY roofing seminars to prepare you for your roof installation. Before you begin working, go to a seminar held by the experts, and check out our guest guide on DIY roof replacement.
Professional Roofing
When you have a professional company or contractor handle your roof, you can take a break and relax. Professional contractors know what they’re doing and have experience with past roof work. They’re licensed and certified to install the exact kind of roof you want on your home. The only work you’ll have to do is to prepare your home for the contractors. This labor doesn’t come without an expensive price tag, however. You’ll have to do intense research on the company you choose to install your roof, as a roof done wrong can give you more headaches than it’s worth—as we said earlier, it can ruin the structure of your home.
Doing the job yourself means the only one you can blame for roofing damage is yourself, but a roofing company can have a warranty or guarantee to protect you. DIY repairs on a professionally installed roof can void the warranty from the company and the manufacturer. The life span of your roof is sure to be longer when a professional installs it.
Keep in mind that the biggest differences in DIY vs. professional roof installation are cost, quality, and labor. Only resort to DIY roof installation when you’re on a tight budget—otherwise, call in the professionals to handle it.
