Should I Just Replace My Own Roof?
DIY Roof Replacement vs Professional Roofing Replacement
Can you replace your own roof? Yes. Should you, though? We’ll see.
Here’s what to expect when replacing your own roof:
Assuming you have examined the condition of your roof and have decided it’s time for a replacement, you can decide whether to hire a professional roofer or Do-It-Yourself.
The tools, materials, and skills required for a successful DIY Roof Replacement can be costly and confusing if you aren’t a roofing professional. If you dabble in construction and home improvement, you may have several of these things and have a solid chance of doing the job right.
Tools Required
The tools you use are important. Take proper safety precautions, don’t skip the gloves and harnesses. If you choose to do the job, beware of the risks involved if you cut corners.
- Air compressor
- Air hose
- Caulk gun
- Chalk line
- Circular saw
- Extension ladder
- Roof harness
- Roofing nailer
- Scaffolding
- Stapler
- Straightedge
- Tin snips
- Utility knife
- Work gloves
Materials Required
Clayton Hoover and Sons offers the best products available in the South Bend/ Mishawaka area. CertainTeed products are highly recommended and come with warranties and protection after being professionally installed. Know that you could be missing out on coverage with a DIY job. When purchasing products yourself, research options available in Northern Indiana and make an educated decision that best suits you.
- Felt underlayment
- Asphalt shingles
- Drip edge
- Hook blades
- Roofing nails
- Sealant
- Self-adhesive waterproof underlayment
- Staples
- Step and dormer flashing
- Valley flashing
- Vent flashing
So, you’ve got all the stuff? Get ready for the heavy-lifting! To complete any roofing job, you have to be, to some degree, physically fit and strong. Roofing in itself is a risky job and not for the faint of heart. You can’t be afraid of heights! Before committing, get out the ladder and climb up on the roof. If you can’t walk around with confidence, you should probably hire Clayton Hoover and Sons.
Next, go to the lumberyard and throw a bundle of shingles onto your shoulder. Can you carry that load up the ladder over and over again? In the blazing heat? Remember that it’s almost impossible to shelter yourself from the elements on top of a roof. Timing matters. South Bend summers are rather intense between storms and heat.
If you’re still feeling positive at this point, go for it. After you’ve obtained a permit and safely stripped the roof clean, you can begin installing your new roof. Make sure you have a plan and have mapped out all of the necessary steps and materials. We’ll be here when you need help!
Maybe you’re thinking, “I don’t think I’m up to it.” And you are not alone. Clayton Hoover and Sons exists to serve the South Bend community for this reason. Most people don’t have the skills, resources, courage, strength, or time to replace their own roof. Why do it yourself when Clayton Hoover and Sons provides Michiana with the best products, warranties, services, and skills in the area?
When you ask the right questions, you can find the right roofing contractor.
For the best results around, contact Clayton Hoover & Sons at ClaytonHoover.com/roofing.