If you’re like a lot of homeowners, almost everything around your house turns into a do-it-yourself project. But can you, or should you, DIY roof replacement or roof repairs? That answer hinges on a number of factors.
You can replace your own roof if you have all the right tools, including safety gear and permits. Or you can call a roofing professional who can install your new roof correctly, safely, and quickly. Either way, there are some things you should know before deciding which option is best for you.
In this article, we’ll guide you through what to consider when you DIY.
In This Article
Roof Replacement vs. Roof Repairs
Easy roof repairs can be a weekend DIY job. More complicated roof repairs should be handled by a qualified and experienced roofing professional.
Should you begin to fix the roof yourself and discover underlying problems, consider calling a roofing company to do a full inspection. What you thought were simple roof repairs may really indicate you need a total roof replacement.
Rather than waste time, money, and effort on repairing your roof, look closely for warning signs that could indicate a more complicated problem that may require a roof replacement instead.
These signs include:
- The roof is older than 20 years (for asphalt roofs) or 50 years (for metal roofs)
- Mold, mildew, or moss
- Missing, damaged, or deformed shingles
- Water leaks or sagging ceiling
- Changes in energy bills
- Discoloration and streaking
DIY Factors to Consider
If you still want to accomplish a DIY roof replacement or roof repair, it’s important to understand the process from start to finish before you even begin. Your top priority is safety, which requires being prepared.
It’s not just the physical work of installing a metal or asphalt roof and the danger it could put you in. Other factors to consider include:
- Safety – Climbing onto your roof is not something to take lightly. Be sure to outfit yourself with everything you need: gloves, non-slip shoes, comfortable clothing, safety glasses, and a harness. Make sure ladders are sturdy and that another capable individual is nearby during the process.
- Permission – Check with your local authorities to determine if you need a permit to work on your roof. You could face a fine if you’re not following the law.
- Inspection – You may need to get an inspection after the roof work is complete. This means you run the risk of having to redo it based on the inspector’s findings.
- Insurance – Speak with your homeowner’s insurance to stay within the terms of your policy.
- Warranty – If you replace the roof yourself, there’s no warranty on the work or materials.
Erie Home has been serving homeowners with a team of experienced roofing professionals for over 50 years. In addition to our team having the expert qualifications needed to properly repair or replace a roof, we also back each roof installation with a limited lifetime transferable warranty (30 years for asphalt roofs and 50 years for metal roofs).
DIY Roof Repair
DIY roof repair might be on your weekend to-do list, but it’s best to call a trained professional to check it out. If the roof repair becomes a larger issue, roofers are there to fix it. You’ll be halfway to a better roof and without the personal risk.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you need to fix something immediately. After you have taken all safety precautions, inspect your roof so you know exactly what it is you need to fix. Look beyond the immediate problem to ensure there aren’t any hidden issues.
Get all the materials you need for the repair you need to make. Products like roof sealants are used for asphalt shingle roofs when there’s damage that’s causing—or could cause—a leak. But if you’re unsure what type of solution your problem needs, get in touch with Erie Home for a free consultation today.
DIY Roof Replacement
DIY roof replacement is only for the experienced do-it-yourselfer and is not recommended for the everyday homeowner. If you’ve discovered that your roof needs replacing, it’s wise to call a roofing professional to do the job for you.
Residential roof replacement involves installing a new metal roof, an asphalt roof, or an overlay, such as installing a metal roof over asphalt shingles. If you’re unsure which option is best for your home, contact Erie Home today at 1-800-998-8301 for a free inspection and estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DIY roofing worth it?
DIY roofing is not often worth it due to the physical risk alone. You can’t put a price on your well-being. Consider contacting a roofing professional to do your roofing work for you.
Can I put a new roof on myself?
Technically, yes, you can put a new roof on your home yourself, but the smarter move is to hire a professional roofer to complete the job. The right roofing contractor will know the ins-and-outs of roofing and be able to help you at every stage of the process.
Is roof restoration better than roof replacement?
In some cases, restoring your roof may be the better option to replacing it. Have a professional inspect your roof to help you determine which is best for you.
Is DIY roofing hard?
Roofing is not easy; it requires training and physical ability. Whether you’d consider DIY roofing to be hard depends on multiple factors, such as the size of your house, your physical capability, and the current state of your roof.
Can you replace shingles without replacing the whole roof?
Yes, you can replace asphalt shingles without replacing the whole roof. This is commonly done when only a portion of the roof is damaged by weather events, fallen debris, or wear and tear localized to a specific area.
Replacing individual shingles or a small section is cost-effective and can extend the overall lifespan of the roof, provided that the underlying structure and the majority of the remaining shingles are in good condition. Regular inspections can help identify when such repairs are necessary.