If you are thinking about replacing your entire roof on your own, you might want to think twice. After all, the roof is an essential part of your home’s entire structure. However, this is a big job and you really don’t want to have the first rains after your new roof has been installed to come straight into your living room.
On the other hand, if you are handy and have had plenty of experience with DIY projects, tackling a roof repair might be something to consider.
Some Important Considerations
Before getting started, think about this:
- An experienced roofer feels comfortable moving around up there. Would you feel comfortable too? Unless you are used to hiking and climbing, you may not feel comfortable dealing with heights.
- Being on a roof implies elements of danger. Are you willing to take them on?
- Do you have the necessary skills? After all, a roof is not something you can return like those pants that didn’t fit. What you do will stay on your house for a long time.
- If the cost is wat is motivating you to do this on your own, why not talk to your roofer? Ask if there are some tasks that you may complete beforehand that would get you a discount on the new roof.
- Tearing off a new roof needs to be done quickly to prevent the elements from invading the inside of your home. Will you have the time to get this done fast and right?
Starting a DIY Roofing Project
If you are just going to do a roof repair, before getting started, it is important to do some research. Start by finding out what material your roof is made of and whether those shingles are still being manufactured.
If you have decided to go ahead and do a full roof replacement, your research should start by finding out what roofing options are available and which one would work best for your home. Once you decide, buy enough shingles to cover the entire roof and some extra bundles that you can store for future roof fixes.
Shingle Replacement
Replacing shingles in a single area of your roof can be successfully accomplished once you find the matching shingles. Putting in any others will not only detract from the curb appeal but may even impact the price of the property when you are trying to sell.
Remove any remaining shingles in the area you are trying to fix and, using a combination of special adhesive and nails, secure the new shingles in place.
Partial Reroofing
If you are unable to match your existing shingles, you may consider a partial reroofing. Select the entire area where the missing or damaged shingles used to be and install new ones over an entire area. Doing this creatively may make your roof look as though the difference in shingles is an element of design and not a bad patch work.
Some Additional Tips
Always wear rubber-soled shoes
Slide the back edge of new shingles completely under the row of shingles behind them
Fasten the top of each new shingle with galvanized roofing nails
Fill any joints around the flashing with roof cement to seal them
Keep your roof in good repair by having roof repair services inspecting it periodically
