When to DIY Roof Repairs (and When to Call a Pro)

We're roofers, so you'd expect us to say "call a professional for everything." But that's not realistic, and it's not honest. There are some roof-related tasks a reasonably handy homeowner can handle without hiring anyone. There are also jobs that will end up costing you way more if you try them yourself. Let's talk about where that line is.

Things you can probably handle

Gutter cleaning is the obvious one. If you own a ladder and you're comfortable on it, scooping leaves out of your gutters is a Saturday afternoon job. You can also replace a missing vent cap - the little metal or plastic covers on top of the pipe vents that stick through your roof. They pop right off and hardware stores carry replacements for a few bucks.

Caulking small gaps around flashing is doable if you can reach the area safely. Pick up some roofing sealant, not regular caulk, and apply it to any small cracks or separations you can see. And if a shingle is just slightly lifted - not torn or broken - you can press it back down and put a dab of roofing cement underneath to hold it. That's about as far as we'd recommend going on your own.

Things that need a pro

Anything that involves removing and replacing shingles is pro territory. It's not that the physical work is hard - it's that doing it wrong creates bigger problems than the one you started with. Improperly installed shingles void your manufacturer warranty, and if the underlying felt or decking is damaged, you won't know until water is in your living room.

• -Replacing damaged shingles - proper nailing patterns and sealing matter more than most people think
• -Fixing flashing around chimneys, walls, or valleys - this is where most leaks happen and it takes experience to get right
• -Addressing sagging or soft spots on the roof deck - this means structural work that needs a professional evaluation
• -Any work on a steep-pitch roof - the fall risk isn't worth it, period
• -Anything involving your roof warranty - most manufacturer warranties require licensed contractor installation

The safety factor

Let's be real about this part. Falls from residential roofs send thousands of people to the emergency room every year. Professional roofers wear harnesses, use proper safety equipment, and work on roofs every day. We know where to step, how to move on a wet surface, and how to work on steep pitches safely. If you're not 100% comfortable and experienced on a roof, there's no DIY project worth a trip to the ER.

Not sure if your roof issue is a DIY fix or a pro job? Send us a photo and we'll tell you straight. Call (913) 605-0073 or shoot us a message through the site.