A well-maintained roof is a no-brainer. It preserves a home’s value, curb appeal, contributes to energy saving, among other benefits. But even the most well-cared-for rooftops can succumb to the elements and require partial – or even total replacement.
Some homeowners may opt to perform roof replacements themselves to save money. However, DIY roof replacement can often lead to more problems than solutions. Here’s why you should avoid DYI-ing your partial or complete roof replacement and hire a licensed professional instead.
DIY Roof Replacement Exposes You To Injuries
DIY roof replacements, whether partial or total, expose homeowners to risks that result in serious injuries, including:
- Falling due to inadequate edge-protection
- Injuries associated with manual handling of materials, tools, and electrical connections in the roof
- Falling through holes in the ceiling
- Slipping on the roof due to lack of proper footwear
Consequently, roofers frequently suffer brain injuries, spinal damage, amputations, puncture wounds, and electrocution.
Unlike DIY replacements, certified and qualified roofing contractors mitigate the risk of injuries using safety gear, e.g., roof harnesses, hooks, buckles, and rope grabs. Furthermore, professional roofers reduce risk by investing in prior planning, training, and safe methods.
You May Compromise The Roof’s Warranty
Roofing manufacturers offer warranties to cover extreme exposure and events. Interestingly, the guarantee is anchored on professional installation and repair. DIY roof replacement reduces your chances of filing a successful claim.
Moreover, a top-quality roofing material may be damaged by an amateur. For instance, replacing a damaged shingle without professional help might cause cracks and holes.
On the contrary, a professional contractor is competent, experienced, and insured; hence they protect your roof and preserve its warranty.
DIY Repairs Can Attract Loss
Reducing cost is a prime motivation behind DIY roof replacement. However, it might prove costly in the long run, which equates to loss.
Here’s why you may lose money using this route.
- The initial cost of buying replacement equipment: Professional contractors acquire supplies— tools and equipment— in bulk. They serve many customers, reducing the overhead cost per customer. On the contrary, a homeowner absorbs the expense individually, which is costly.
- Follow-up maintenance: Due to lack of training, there’s a chance you might leave a few cracks and leaks in the roof. The initial roofing problem may reoccur, necessitating an additional repair from a qualified roofing professional, which will cost you more money.
- Compromised home insurance: In case of an accident during DIY replacements, home insurance is unlikely to cover you. In addition, an insurance company may not honor a claim resulting from a DIY replacement, which compounds your losses.
Unimpressive Results
Roofing is a big part of the home’s curb appeal. Unfortunately, most homeowners lack the craft of fine finishing during replacements. The result may look uneven, sloppy, or asymmetrical, which isn’t appealing.
You might solve the problem halfway, exposing your home to water leaks, mold, and excess moisture damage.
Try Our Professional Roofing Service Today
Ultimately, a DIY roof replacement will fall short of your expectations and expose you to injuries and additional costs. As such, it’s recommended that you work with a professional contractor like Solar Optimum. We have experience in delivering solar-energy efficient roofs with a 25-year+ warranty. Additionally, Solar Optimum is GAF Master Elite Certified, and only 2% of all roofers in the United States have this trusted designation with GAF.
Contact us today for a free quote.