While DIY works great for some projects, it’s a disaster for others — and home roofing tops the list of home improvement jobs you should leave to the professionals.
1. You Don’t Really Save Money
Replacing a roof is a big investment. Other projects, such as a bathroom remodel or finished basement, are showier and seem to deliver more bang for your buck. Because you don’t necessarily notice your roof, it can be hard to dip into your home renovation budget to replace it. For this reason, you might be tempted to save money by taking it on yourself.
2. You Void Your Warranty
Most, if not all, roofing material manufacturers will not guarantee materials that haven’t been installed by a professional roofing contractor. The reason is simple: A botched installation that misuses the materials will inevitably lead to costly damage.
3. It’s Dangerous
Installing a roof may look easy, but it’s dangerous work. There are numerous hazards to contend with, including heights, deep sloping surfaces, the weather and power tools. Experienced roofers have the tools and equipment they need to work safely. If you’ve watched roofing DIY tutorials on YouTube, keep in mind that these usually feature pros who are giving tips for basic repair work and simple patching jobs.

There are several reasons why it’s worth it to hire a professional roofer instead of attempting it yourself. The first is safety. Roofing is inherently dangerous, as a fall from a roof could seriously injure or kill you. Roofers have specialized equipment and training to help prevent accidents.

Next is experience. Roofers know how to spot problems (leaks, missing shingles, moss or mold growth, etc.) in your roof that could potentially save you from costly repairs down the road.

And finally, roofers save you time by getting the job done quickly and with a high degree of quality.

Generally, a roofer will likely not need to enter your home. The bulk of the work takes place on and around the edges of the roof, where roofing material meets either dormer walls or other structures. So, there is usually no need for person-to-person contact. However, there might be some cases where a roofer needs to enter your home, perhaps to inspect damage or access electrical outlets.

You can take care of any consultation calls using video chats, photos and emails, and payment should take place on virtual platforms. Put together a strategy with any local roofing professionals you contact.

Because social distancing is important during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s recommended that you message roofers after narrowing down your choices through an online search of local roofers near you.

Ask if the roofer is willing to conduct an assessment via video chat rather than a traditional site inspection. Additionally, strategize on what other steps you can collectively take to make sure you’re following guidelines on social distancing during this time, including conducting a virtual payment.

The best roofing material for your home will depend on your budget and what you’re looking for. If you want a roof that has longevity, consider the following: