4. Can I re-roof my house on my own?

The simple answer is YES, you absolutely can. But there are definitely a few things to consider when thinking about replacing a roof on your own. These are some of the most important things to keep in mind.

• The risk of a fall: Professional roofers have spent so much time on roofs that they just know how to walk around, even on steep roofs, and not only move skillfully but also feel comfortable while doing so. This comes from years of experience on a roof. The average homeowner doesn’t spend any time on their roof, and even if you are comfortable with heights, navigating a roof is an entirely different animal. What we learn from all this is that being on a roof, has an element of danger that is not often considered. Gusts of wind can come out of nowhere, and if you are carrying a sheet of plywood or something similar, you will likely find yourself on the ground and in pain.
• The risk of doing a bad job: After you have considered your ability and suppressed your fear of being on a roof, you now need to consider the process of the job. Roofing is a lot like making a cake: there are not that many ingredients, and the task itself seems simple, but to make a really good one, you need to know what you are doing. This comparison breaks down in that if you make a bad cake you don’t have to eat it, but if you do a bad job of putting on a roof, you will have to live with it year round or spend additional money to have your home re-roofed by a professional.
• The cost: While DIY homeowners could save money on labor, most likely they will end up paying higher prices for the materials. Roofing contractors have established relationships with shingle manufacturers and suppliers which allows them to get better pricing and access to a variety of different products. Also, they are able to get better warranties because of their experience and certifications. For more details see our Article: How much does a new roof cost?

Finally, doing your own roof installation is possible but not encouraged. We firmly believe that the risks outweigh the benefits. If you are handy and have some roofing knowledge, then most likely you don’t even need to read this article. But if you are considering whether you can do this, just be aware of the factors listed above. Submit your information here and we’ll call you to schedule a free consultation.