If your Flagstaff, AZ, roof often needs minor repairs, you might wonder whether you should attempt some of them yourself. Doing so could save you money, but it could also put you at risk of serious injury.
When debating DIY vs. professional roof repairs, consider your comfort level with home projects and heights. The handy homeowner might be able to safely complete a few minor fixes. But you should always leave more complex repairs to professionals — like our expert contractors at Polaris Roofing Systems.
What Roof Repairs Can the Handy Homeowner Attempt?
Certain repairs may be manageable for homeowners who:
- Have a basic knowledge of home repairs
- Feel comfortable standing on roofs
- Have the right tools and equipment for the job
If you meet these three criteria, these are a few fixes you may feel comfortable attempting:
- Gutter cleaning: Removing debris from the gutters
- Roof cleaning: Sweeping off leaves, debris, and moss
- Patching leaks: Temporarily sealing small roof leaks with roofing cement, sealant, or patches before a professional implements long-term solutions
- Shingle replacement: Replacing a few missing shingles
If you decide to try any of these repairs, be aware of the safety risks of working at heights. Never work on a roof when home alone. Someone should always watch out for your safety in case anything happens.
Repairs To Leave to Professionals
Even if you have some experience working on roofs, there are a few scenarios where you should never attempt a repair yourself. When considering DIY vs. professional roof repairs, it’s always better to rely on professionals for the following:
- Old roofs: If your roof is past its typical lifespan, working on it could put you at serious risk of injury. The structure may not be able to hold your weight, and one wrong step could send you crashing through it. It might not be worth fixing an old roof at all — you may need a replacement instead.
- Insurance claims: If the damage occurred due to a storm or other natural disaster, your homeowners’ insurance might cover it. The insurance company will want to assess the damage as is and approve a contractor to restore it.
- Major damage: If your roof is damaged in several areas, the project will likely take significant time and resources, not to mention expertise and experience. Call the professionals to ensure a job well done.
- Warranty coverage: If your roof is under warranty, you probably need to hire a professional contractor like Polaris Roofing Systems for repairs. Otherwise, you may void the warranty.
Considering Your Options for Roof Repair
When weighing DIY vs. professional roof repairs, start by requesting a quote from an experienced roofing company. Many contractors offer free inspections or estimates. You have nothing to lose by inviting a professional to assess the damage and give you their expert opinion.
Once you have an estimate of the roof repair costs, you can decide whether the time, hassle, and risk of DIY repair is worthwhile. You can also better understand the severity of the problem and determine your comfort level in trying to resolve it.
If you’re ever unsure about your ability to attempt the fix safely, don’t hesitate to rely on professionals. Your health isn’t worth saving a few bucks on a roof job.
Call Polaris Roofing Systems Today
Are you still considering DIY vs. professional roof repairs in Flagstaff, AZ? Request a free inspection from Polaris Roofing Systems to aid your decision. We’ll assess the damage, provide a quote, and give transparent guidance about whether it is safe to attempt it yourself.
Give us a call at (928) 699-4840 to schedule your inspection.
