Roofing Contractors Waterloo

Installing a New Roof — Should You Do It Yourself or Hire a Local Roofing Contractor?

When it’s time to replace the roof, many homeowners assume it will be a fairly simple DIY project. However, fixing the roof can be a tedious, frustrating, difficult and extremely dangerous job. Before you consider watching a few DIY videos, buying the tools and materials, and getting started on the work, it’s best to think about the disadvantages of doing the work yourself. In many situations, a DIY roofing problem can create more problems than solutions. Before setting out to install the new roof on your own, it is recommended that you contact local roofing contractors to provide you with an estimate of the cost to help determine if it’s really worth it for you to do it yourself. You may find that by the time you buy the tools and material and put in the amount of time necessary to do it, it simply isn’t worth it to do yourself.

Experience in the Field

Depending on the field you specialize in, you may have some knowledge about roofing; however, on the other hand, you may have no knowledge about how a roofing system works and what the best techniques are. The majority of roofing contractors spend hours upon hours working with other roofing contractors, which allows them to perfect their skill before setting out in business on their own. There is no amount of research or videos that replace real-life experience. The last thing you want to do is make your home an experiment, so it is best to get the roof replaced properly the first time to reduce the risk of further projects being needed. Experienced contractors are also knowledgeable about the amount of materials they will need, and they are licensed. It is common to either over- or under-estimate the amount of materials needed, and in some situations, if there are damages, the insurance company will not honor the policy if the work isn’t done by an expert.

Safety

Unfortunately, falling accidents are common among DIY roofers, and many falls result in extreme injuries, even fatalities. By hiring a professional contractor, you can avoid the risk of a serious fall and be safe. Professional roofing contractors are fully trained to work safely while on top of a roof. They have the safety equipment necessary, such as safety harnesses, to prevent them from falling and getting injured. Some roofing materials themselves, such as metal or ceramic tile, can also pose a variety of injury risks. Not only do professional contractors have the experience and knowledge to get the job done safely, but they also have the appropriate tools necessary for whatever challenges the roof may offer. If an accident does occur, roofing contractors are insured to protect themselves, their crew and their customers.

Save Time

Installing your own roof may save you a little money, but it will require an enormous amount of your time. Not only will it require your time to do the work, but you will also need to spend time researching how to correctly do the project. Many people aren’t sure what they are doing when heading up to the roof for the installation. This makes it more difficult to complete the project in a short amount of time. Also, making a mistake, especially a major one, will cost you more time in the long run, and if the mistake is bigger than expected, you may end up having to hire a contractor to make the repairs, which means more time spent getting the roof installed. If you hire a roofing contractor and mistakes are made, they will repair the problem.

Save Money

The time and money you spend purchasing the materials alone may not be worth it. Hiring professional roofing contractors means you do not have to spend the money for equipment, and a professional contractor will know the kinds of materials to order and where to order quality materials. DIYer’s generally only have access to materials that are in stock at their local home improvement store; whereas, roofing companies have professional relationships with roofing manufacturers and can generally get high-quality materials at a price that is more reasonable than what you may have to pay at a home improvement store.

Peace of Mind

One of the best things about hiring roofing contractors to do the work for you is the peace of mind you will have in knowing that your home is in good hands with a professional. Hiring a professional means the work will be done effectively and efficiently. You will have peace of mind in knowing that the roof was properly installed and quality materials were used by an experienced, licensed professional.

Before making the commitment to do your own roofing project, it is important to consider all of your options first. Once you purchase all the tools, equipment and materials needed, and after you factor in your time, roofing contractors may seem less expensive. Keep in mind that making even the smallest mistake may not only cost you valuable time, but it may also cost you in your investment in the long run as well as the potential risk of injury you face. Be sure to hire a contractor you can trust and review the estimates. Be sure to discuss any questions and concerns you may have with your roofing contractor before the work is started. Once you find a reliable contractor, you will find that it is the best decision in the long run.

Here at Community Builders as experts in the Waterloo, Iowa area, we understand that replacing or repairing the roof can be a tedious and potentially dangerous task. If you aren’t experienced with roofing projects, we are here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation and estimate for your new roof.