Why DIY Roof Repair Might Not Bethe Best Idea
by Abdul Aziz Mondal Small Business 26 December 2022
Millions of Americans love to carry out renovations on their homes, and DIY is a highly popular pastime today. The pandemic saw a big rise in individuals taking on DIY projects in their homes. In fact, one study showed that 74% of respondents were carrying out different projects in May 2020.
However, many DIY projects are either abandoned or finished less than successfully. Some because the person taking on the task didn’t have enough experience, or the right tools, or because the project was simply too big.
Some DIY tasks are best left to professionals due to the nature of them. Many activities are simply too dangerous to be tackled by unqualified DIY enthusiasts, and this includes roofing.
The CDC released data that showed that each year more than 150,000 Americans need treatment for injuries related to roofing. And CNN Business reported that roofing is one of the most dangerous jobs in America.
Can You Carry Out DIY Activities On Your Roof?
Despite the statistics above, It could be possible for you to carry out some roofing repairs. These can include replacing the odd broken or missing shingle or clearing the gutters.
However, using a firm such as Magnum Roofing would be advisable for more complex roof repairs. Some tasks are simply better handled by more experienced individuals, and there are a number of advantages to using professionals.
A professional might spot problems that you would miss. In the end, this could be the difference between making quick and inexpensive repairs now against having far more costly problems further on.
Why Should You Avoid DIY Roof Repairs?
As you have read, there are plenty of DIY fans out there, and it can be very rewarding to carry out and complete tasks yourself. It can also be financially beneficial. Simple roof repairs may not be a problem, but there are plenty of solid reasons for using a roofing company instead.
Insurance
A roofing company will be insured, you won’t be. If you cause further damage to your roof you’ll have to pay for it.
The Dangers Of Roofing
As previously mentioned, roofing can be dangerous and many would agree that it is best left to those who are more qualified and have the necessary experience.
There is great importance in construction site safety, and roofing companies will have the correct equipment and methods for staying safe just as builders and other contractors would.
You May Cause More Damage
Walking around your roof can cause more damage than you started with. It is easy to crack or dislodge shingles by walking on them. This will only lead to more repairs being necessary, and a higher bill.
UNDERQUALIFIED AND LACK OF EXPERIENCE
Becoming a roofer takes time and requires training. Many programs for roofing apprenticeships last between 2 and 5 years. There are different programs in place to make sure that roofers are qualified to carry out their roles safely.
The course offered by the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers takes 3 years minimum. Many programs include hundreds or thousands of hours of on-the-job training too.
You Might Also Need A License
Depending on the nature of the repairs, and your location, you may need some form of permit or license. In Michigan the licensing law allows homeowners to carry out their own work but a building permit may be needed in certain situations.
In Florida, things are more complicated. Unlicensed contracting is treated as a first-degree misdemeanor, and this could include work carried out by yourself.
You might also cause some insurance problems. Reinforcing your roof is a solid way to reduce your home insurance costs, but if you cause damage yourself you might be out of luck.
Certain damage to roofs might be covered by your home insurance. But, if you cause said damage then it is unlikely that your insurance company will pay out. If you use a licensed contractor then they will have their own insurance, and should something go awry then it will be their responsibility to fix the problem.
You Can’t Give Yourself A Warranty
Your roofing repair company may offer some kind of quality guarantee on their work. Shopping around might lead you to a roofing company that promises to fix anything that you feel doesn’t meet the standards you expected.
Summary
One of the biggest reasons that so many people get involved with DIY activity is to save money. Another, is the satisfaction of accomplishing a task alone. However, roofing is one area where it may be more costly to try DIY fixes instead of hiring professionals.
Then there are the dangers to consider. Roofing repairs by their very nature need to be carried out high up. The risks involved in DIY roofing alone could be enough to warrant the need for hiring contractors instead.
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