DIY Roof Replacement

Whether part of your home remodeling or maintenance project, replacing the roof can be expensive and labor-intensive. However, the replacement could be necessary if your roof is old and worn out beyond repair. DIY roof replacement could be a route worth considering. 

Dry out and breaking down over time are the common issues with asphalt shingled roofs, the most common roofing type in homes and businesses across the United States. A replacement is often an inevitable option. Replacing the asphalt shingles is not complicated, meaning you can do it if you have the skills and confidence. But it can prove laborious since it entails specific steps. 

Nevertheless, being up to the challenge and doing the roof replacement yourself can save you lots of money. Moreover, there also is that sense of satisfaction when you look at your work and feel proud of the results.

The Essentials For Reroofing Your House

You can avoid the high labor costs by going for the DIY roof replacement but cannot avoid buying the necessary materials. You also might spend a bit on the essential tools and safety gear if you do not have them before starting re-roofing your home.

1. Physical Requirements

First, you must ensure you can work on your roof safely. Never underestimate the task ahead. It is best to consider how high your roof is and if you can get on it and walk around safely. If you are afraid of heights or find this problematic, you better hire a professional to handle the job.

The work entails lifting heavy packs of shingles, which you can carry up the ladder or use a pulley to get them from the ground. The job will be taxing on your body. Anticipate your legs, back, arms, and shoulders to ache. You will spend a significant time working on your knees when replacing your asphalt shingled roof. 

However, the amounts you save from taking on this job are worth the strain and aches. But do a personal assessment and be honest about your abilities and commitment to see the project through before starting.

2. Permits

You might need to inform the city or country authorities about your planned re-roofing project and get the required permits. Roofing is considered a conspicuous project; thus, it would be best to check with your city or county offices to know the paperwork you must fill out and submit before starting the DIY roof replacement.

3. Tools

You need a specific set of tools for cutting and securing the materials in place when roofing. You also require safety gear and equipment since your safety is paramount. The tools and equipment you need when undertaking DIY roofing include (you can rent some of them):

• Utility knife and blades

• Roofing nailer

• Air compressor and air hose 

• Tin snips

• Stapler

• Circular saw

• Straightedge

• Caulk gun

• Work gloves

• Safety harness and fall arrest system

4. Roofing Materials

Your re-roofing project cannot be done without the necessary materials. You will need the following when replacing an asphalt roof:

• Asphalt shingles

• Roofing nails

• Underlayment

• Sealant

• Drip edge

• Hook blades

• Staples

• Flashing for dormers, vents, and valleys

What’s The Cost For A DIY Roof Replacement?

Some homeowners of for DIY roofing because they want to save on labor costs. However, how much you will spend replacing your roof depends on various factors, including shingle type, roof size, location, and more.

You can spend roughly $2,000 and $6,000 if you take on the task of re-roofing your house compared to $10,000 and $12,000 if you hire a roofing company.

Understanding The Process

Besides knowing and having the necessary roofing tools and materials, success in your project requires you to adhere to the recommended steps, which are:

• Removing the old, worn-out shingles

• Replacing the drip edge

• Spreading the underlayment

• Applying the felt paper

• Installing waterproofing valleys, flashing, and edges

• Installing and rechecking the overlap to avoid leaks

• Trimming the edges

• Fitting the dormers and vents

• Sealing the gaps at the vents and pipes

• Capping the ridge

• Sealing and reevaluating your work.

From the above, it is evident that the re-roofing process is detailed and requires care. Hence, it could help if you talk to people who have done it or consult a professional. Moreover, it is wise to admit that a DIY roof replacement project is not for you if you are not confident about your skills or are afraid of heights. The job requires time, attention to detail, and lots of physical work.