When it comes to DIY, many homeowners think they have it under control. They think that if they do the work themselves it will save time and money. You could be looking for trouble if you apply that same philosophy to your roof. A roof is crucial to your home, it keeps all your possessions safe from the elements, helps regulate your home’s temperature, and it’s essential to your home’s curb appeal.
Here are some of the common mistakes quick-fix DIY roofers make:
- Laying new shingles over old ones
- Not observing proper safety practices
- Improper use of roof nails
- Use of inferior quality tiles and shingles
- Not obtaining the proper permits
Let’s have a closer look at some of these mistakes and why there is no such thing as a quick roof fix.
The Shingle Sandwich
The first thing many DIY roofers do is try is to install new shingles on top of old ones. This will never work. One main reason roofing contractors will take the old shingles off first is to inspect the decking underneath. The leak that you’re trying to fix may have a deeper root cause. There could be a leak in the decking that is allowing water to seep in. The time you think you saved will end up costing double when the new shingles need replacing.
Ignorance About Safety
Like it or not, when you get up to roof level, safety becomes a concern. Roofing contractors are required by law to adhere to the strictest safety standards. The Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA) has clear laws and guidelines about safety. DIY roofers do not possess the requisite, training, skills, and equipment to work safely on a roof. Your life and health are not worth risking for a quick roof fix.
Oops! You Nailed It…
Professional roofers understand where and how many nails to put into a roof. DIY roofers will often drive too many nails into one area and too few in others. This results in decking and shingles that are not fastened securely to the roof. Areas where too many nails were driven in can develop leaks which lead to other problems such as mildew and roof rot.
Cheap Is Expensive
Sometimes when you’re at the hardware store you may be tempted to delve into that bargain bin. When it comes to shingles and tiles, you need to make sure that the quality is going to stand up to the test. South Florida has some of the most unforgiving weather conditions. Hot sun, torrential rain, and hurricanes will test your roof to its limit. If you have to replace the shingles that you recently put on, you’ll be spending double your money. Instead of looking for bargains, get a licensed roofer to recommend the best shingle suited to your roof.
Quick Fix Permits Don’t Exist
Due to hurricanes and tornadoes, Florida has some of the strictest roofing codes in the United States. Insurance companies lobbied to have them enforced to mitigate the damage that occurs seasonally. If anything should happen during the course of your quick roof fix, warranties will be void and damage won’t be covered.
Roofing Experts In South Florida Since 1988
Homeowners in South Florida have been trusting Aabco Roofing for over 30 years. We promise to give you prompt and courteous service leaving you confident you’ve made the right choice. If you need a friendly face to provide an estimate to fix your roof, give us a call at 954-426-8500. You don’t need a quick roof fix; you need a professional one.
