Should I DIY My Roof Repair?
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It provides shelter from rain, snow, and extreme weather. Some minor roof repair issues can be handled yourself, but many others require professionals to step in. We're here to help you decide if you can DIY your roof repair or if you should leave your roof repair to the experts.
When to DIY Roof Repair:
- Roof Inspections:
- Regular roof inspections are an important part of roof maintenance, and something that you can likely DIY. You can use binoculars to look at your roof to check for any missing or damaged shingles, signs of wear, or other issues. Finding these problems early allows you to fix issues before they become a huge deal.
- Clean Gutters:
- Dirty gutters might not seem like a big deal but if left alone, they can lead to extensive water damage and actually cause problems for your entire roof. Just clearing out the leaves and debris can make sure your gutters drain properly and prevent larger roof repairs down the road.
- Seal Small Leaks:
- Small leaks can be a DIY fix. If it's small enough, you can seal it with roofing cement and just keep an eye on it. If it continues to leak, it's probably a little bit beyond DIY and you should call in a professional.
- Replace Missing Shingles:
- Missing shingles are pretty common, especially after severe weather. If you happen to have spare shingles, replacing them is a pretty straightforward DIY task. However, if it's more than a few, you may want to consider having professional installation, as well as looking into insurance claims for your roof damage.
- Trim Overhanging Branches:
- It's not specifically roof maintenance, but overhanging branches can damage your roof, especially during storms. Trim any branches that are too close to your house in order to prevent potential damage. This not only protects your roof but also helps the overall safety of your home.
When to Call in the Experts:
- Complex Leaks:
- If you have a large roof leak or a leak that just won't go away after attempts to fix it, it's not a great idea to try to fix yourself. Professional roofing companies will find the source of the problem and provide a solution that lasts, not just a quick fix. This will also prevent any further damage to your roof.
- Major Storm Damage:
- Severe storms, especially hail or high winds, can cause significant damage to your roof. Having a professional assessment of your roof is a good idea, and can help you find any issues you might not have noticed. This can also help prevent further problems down the line.
- Roof Age and Wear:
- If your roof is getting older and showing its age, it's better to let an expert deal with any roof repairs you may need. Sometimes, the best course of action would be a roof replacement - it may be easier and more cost-effective than trying to make multiple repairs. At Up Top Exteriors, we can give you a free assessment and recommend roof repair or replacement options for your roof.
- DIY Mistakes:
- If you attempted to DIY an issue and it turned out poorly, it's best to get help from a professional roofing company ASAP. Trying to fix it yourself may only make the problem bigger, and this can prevent further damage that could be even worse than the original issue.
- Safety Concerns:
- Without the right equipment or experience, some roof repairs can be dangerous. If you have any safety concerns, let professionals handle the job. Roofing companies are trained and equipped for these jobs. Your safety should always come first!
If your roof repair doesn't fall into the "DIY" category, get in touch with us! Whether it's fixing leaks, replacing shingles, or installing an entirely new roof, you can trust the experts at Up Top Exteriors to deliver quality craftsmanship and reliable expertise.
