With the ever-increasing popularity of DIY content on TV and social media, many people these days are choosing to learn how to do some home repairs on their own to save money. While certain tasks like painting or kitchen updates may be easy for just about anyone to take on, some bigger tasks – like roof replacement – can be more complex than the average homeowner realizes. Let us walk you through the pros and cons of trying to tackle this repair on your own, and why you should consider leaving it to the pros.
DIY Roof Replacement
When it comes to small repairs, like replacing a few shingles, most people with some DIY experience can manage them on their own. There are plenty of tutorials and videos online to show you exactly what you need to do and what supplies you need to get it done right. A total replacement, however, is more in-depth, requiring 2 or more days to complete if you’re doing it alone or with only one helper. If your roof is still in relatively good condition with no obvious major issues, like sunken or soft spots, you might be able to put a second roof on top of it. But if you do have issues, you will have to remove the existing roof and replace the underlayment as well as the shingles, which means you’re also going to have to rent a dumpster and potentially replace sections of sheathing.
The most obvious pro for DIY-ing your own roof replacement is that it will save you money. While you will likely spend more on materials than a pro would charge, you will save money on the labor costs. However, you will also be working on your roof, and you likely don’t have the right safety equipment laying around, which can leave you at risk of injury. In addition, unless you’ve already big into performing your own repairs, you probably don’t have all of the tools you need on hand either. You can rent some tools but others you will have to buy outright, increasing your overall costs and potentially saddling you with extra items you’ll have to figure out how to store and may never use again.
Professional Roof Replacement
The biggest advantage of hiring a professional to handle your roof replacement is that it means you don’t have to do anything other than schedule an initial inspection. A pro will handle everything, from removing old materials to ensuring the sheathing is in good condition. In older homes, some sections of sheathing may need to be replaced to ensure your roof sheds water correctly, which can be a difficult task for a homeowner to complete on their own. A pro will be able to handle this easily, as well as any other additional tasks like replacing warped or damaged pieces of fascia.
Of course, a professional roof replacement costs more, but with the extra cost comes the peace of mind of knowing that your roof will be watertight and look attractive. It’s also worth taking into consideration the fact that your roof will have a warranty to cover any defects that may show up over time.
DIY or Professional – Which is Best?
The best solution for replacing your roof depends a lot on your individual situation. If you have advanced DIY skills, the right tools, and a few extra hands to help, you may very well be able to install your own roof without any major issues. But if you don’t have the tools, or aren’t very experienced with major DIY projects, it would likely be in your best interest to hire a pro to ensure your home is protected from leaks or water damage.
Don’t Risk a Leaky Roof – Trust Avondale Roofing
At Avondale Roofing, we know how important it is for your roof to properly protect your home. We have over 30 years of experience in handling roof repairs, roof replacements, and gutter installation. Our highly experienced roofing experts can help you assess your roof’s condition, and make appropriate repair or replacement recommendations to make sure your home remains protected from the elements. Contact us today to set up your Free Estimate. We proudly serve the Madison, WI area, Chicago, IL area, and beyond.