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While there are certain home improvement tasks that make great weekend projects, there are other things that are better handled by an experienced contractor…including roofing repair. Talk to any experienced roofing contractor, and you will hear why you should never DIY your roof repair. Seemingly small mistakes in the repair process, or overlooked damage, can lead to serious (and expensive) issues for your home in the future.
Even though it might seem like a good idea to save a bit of money with a DIY roof repair, it typically costs even more money in the long run. In this article, we are breaking down a few details that you need to know about roof damage and weather conditions here in Texas, and why it usually makes sense to call an expert roofing team for assistance.
Why Texas Makes DIY Roofing Riskier Than Anywhere Else
Not only is Texas at the top of the list for hailstorms in the United States, but DFW is located in the center of where most of these storms come through. The weather here is intense, ranging from hailstorms to extreme summer heat. Throughout the year, your roof can really take a beating from these weather conditions, especially when roof damage is left unrepaired or there are low-quality DIY repairs on the roof.
Eventually, the roof damage escalates, and you are dealing with sealants that are failing. You might notice that the granules are starting to fall off the shingles, which is most visible when they are collecting in the gutters. The shingles can even soften over time, making the materials even weaker when you finally get up there to repair the roof.
The Dangers of DIY Roof Repair You Can’t Undo
Is DIY roof repair worth it? When you look at the potential risks and the long-term costs, it’s usually better to hire an expert roofing contractor instead of attempting a DIY project on your own.
In addition to potential complications that can occur from repair mistakes, there is also a high risk of injuries for homeowners who attempt roofing repairs on their own. If you don’t have the right safety equipment, then there is a high risk of serious injuries or even fatality due to a misstep and fall from the roof.
A professional roofing contractor will have fall protection strategies, and all of the crew members have been through OSHA-mandated safety training. So, the risk of falling is much lower when an experienced team is on the roof instead of an inexperienced handyman or DIY homeowner. Additionally, you have financial protection if a fall occurs because the roofing team will have insurance and workers’ comp coverage.
The Repair Looks Simple, But the Damage Can Be Complicated
There are big differences between DIY roof repair vs professional services. With a DIY repair, homeowners often assume that replacing the damaged shingles will be sufficient. But roofing experts know that it’s rare that only the shingles are affected. Often, there is also damage to other parts of the roof that also need to be addressed, including the flashing, valleys, penetrations, and vents. All of these issues could be potential weak points that could lead to leaks and water damage.
Just because there is a surface patch to replace the damaged shingles, it doesn’t show the picture of what is happening underneath. For example, the replacement shingles might look great, but they are covering up issues such as rot, mold, and pest damage. These issues can fester for months before anything is visible.
Ultimately, the reason why you should never DIY your roof repair is because a DIY approach typically addresses the symptoms without fixing the underlying issues that lead to bigger complications in the future.
DIY Roof Repair vs Professional Services: Insurance, Permits & Legal Fallout
Here are some of the reasons why it usually makes sense to invest in professional roof repair services instead of attempting a DIY project:
- Professional contractors have all of the necessary tools and materials to ensure the highest quality results.
- Many roofing warranties are void if repairs aren’t done by a certified technician.
- If a DIY attempt is botched, then the overall costs are often double when the professional needs to come fix it.
- Personal injuries can be expensive due to medical bills and missed work. Roofing contractors eliminate this liability since they have proper insurance coverage.
- In many DFW cities, re-roof permits are necessary, and DIY projects often skip this step.
Watch Out for the Storm Chasers
Since Texas doesn’t have state licensing requirements for roofing contractors, it unfortunately attracts scammers who come into the area after a big storm. These scammers are known as “storm chasers,” and their goal is to close the jobs as quickly as possible and then get out before homeowners realize that they paid for low-quality roof repairs.
Storm chasers often go door-to-door, offering free inspections in the areas that were affected by a hailstorm. They usually show up within 24 to 48 hours after the storm, complete a bunch of repairs, and then disappear quickly.
If you are going to hire professional services, make sure that you are working with a legitimate contractor. They should be RCAT-registered, bonded, and insured. Search for the contractor online to look for local reviews and their physical address. You want to hire a team that has a verifiable presence in the area, not just a cheaper crew working out of a truck.
FAQs
Do you need a permit to replace a roof in Texas?
Yes, many cities in Texas require a re-roof permit and a final inspection. Always check your local requirements before starting a roof replacement project.
Will homeowners’ insurance cover a roof I repaired myself?
If there is evidence of unlicensed self-repair on the roof, then your insurance company might deny or reduce claims relating to storm damage.
Professional Roofing Services You Can Trust
Instead of taking the risk with a DIY roof repair project, it’s better to hire the experts for assistance. Our team is here to help, offering a free, professional inspection for every home.
Infinite Roofing is a trusted provider in the DFW area, delivering a wide range of home services, including roofing, solar installation, windows, gutters, and more. Contact us today for more information about available services.