Many people think that installing a new roof is nothing more than just nailing up
some shingles. The truth is, a properly installed roof is a complex system of components
that work together to keep water (and the damage it can do) outside of your home.
Competent roofing contractors spend years learning their trade. They train long
hours to learn how to properly handle and install roofing materials, identify risks,
keep themselves safe, and follow mandatory building regulations.
Roofing involves a great deal of physical labor, especially if you plan to tear
off your existing roof before installing the new roof. If you’re not comfortable
walking on a roof or carrying heavy objects up a ladder, you should think twice
about taking on a roofing job. There are many critical safety issues that you must
consider before undertaking such a task (see our
Safety section for more details). It’s also important to have the correct
tools and safety equipment, and that you know how to use them properly. Disregarding
any of these steps could result in serious problems or even injury. Before you make
a decision about doing your own roof, review the materials on this website to gain
a better understanding of the requirements of the total project. If it seems daunting,
it may be better to hire a professional.
Many factors go into a professional cost estimate for a roofing job—everything from
tearing off the existing roof, installing new shingles, and structural repair to
disposal of old materials, clean up, and rental of equipment. Other factors include
the size of your roof, how steep the slope is, and the amount of roofing materials
that you need. It is possible that by installing a roof on your own, you might save
a few hundred or even a few thousand dollars.
However, you should carefully consider if this savings is worth the risk. Roofing
is a dangerous business. If either you or someone else gets hurt, you may need to
hire someone to complete the job anyway. Is it worth that extra cost—and your personal
safety? What if a mistake is made when installing roofing materials, or the inside
of your house gets wet from a leak? You will incur added costs to fix those problems
as well.
Ultimately, your best option is to choose a professional roofing contractor who
can do the job efficiently and safely. GAF factory-certified Master Elite™
Contractors are state licensed, adequately insured, have a proven reputation, and
are committed to ongoing training to ensure quality installation.
Click here
to locate a factory-certified
GAF Master Elite™ Contractor near you.>>
