Fearless homeowners can tackle a variety of home renovation projects. From installing tile to demolishing kitchen cabinets, there are how-to instructions for almost every home-related task.
It comes as no surprise that roof replacement would also find its place in the DIY category. If you aren’t afraid of heights and you know your way around a ladder, then you might expect that a roof replacement isn’t out of reach.
Professionals could argue that the roof is the most vital component of a home’s structure, and that sound work trickles down to a solid foundation. In this article, we take a look at professional roof replacement versus DIY roof replacement so you can determine if you are up to the challenge.
Do It Yourself: the pros
A DIY roof replacement has one huge perk right from the jump: it’s way more cost effective. Without a doubt, handling a roof replacement on your own instead of hiring a contractor will save you a lot of cash.
Another pro for a DIY job is that you can be intentional about the materials you use. Doing the job yourself ensures that you have total control over every aspect of the building process.
Lastly, this approach isn’t without support. With thousands of online resources for DIY roofing projects, you won’t be going it alone. There are tons of forums and videos for you to connect with others who have already completed the project successfully.
Do It Yourself: the cons
Unfortunately, a roofing project is a big undertaking and you might need some backup. An extra set of hands is definitely a good idea, so don’t expect that you can do it all by yourself.
Another downside to the DIY job is that it could take a lot longer. If you are balancing your normal job with a big roofing project, you won’t have as much time to devote to the task. Replacing a roof on your own could take a lot longer than hiring someone to do it.
Additionally, you might make mistakes and have to double back on your work. These challenges are inevitable and you might regret the decision when weeks have gone by without much progress.
Professional Replacement: the pros
Hiring a professional for your roof replacement means that the stress of the job isn’t on you. You’ll be able to maintain a normal routine while the job is being completed.
Another great part about getting professional help is that you know the job will be done right. Professional roofers know the ins and outs of roofing and can ensure a quality product, which can’t be said for someone tackling a roof replacement for the first time.
Lastly, a contractor has a schedule to keep, so the job will be completed efficiently in a timely manner. You can read reviews ahead of time and choose a contractor that will fit your needs and your schedule.
Professional Replacement: the cons
The biggest argument against professional roof replacement is the sheer cost. Hiring a contractor is considerably more expensive than purchasing the materials and doing the job yourself. But remember, you are also paying for the quality and the accuracy of the work.
No matter what route you take, keep in mind that the roof is one of the most essential parts of your home. A well built roof helps protect the interior of your home, the overall structure, and even the foundation. Do your research before tackling a big DIY project and enlist the help of friends who have experience with roofing. If all else fails, a contractor can guarantee that the job is completed successfully.
