Tag Archives: roofing Houston TX

Should I Do My Own Roof Repairs?

Roof repairs are scary for some homeowners, enjoyable and rewarding for others, so whether you should handle the repairs that become necessary on your roof depends on the complexity of the task and your skill level. While most roofing Houston TX contractors don’t recommend DIY roof repairs and they warn homeowners about the dangers of moving at heights as well as about the harm potentially caused by improperly and unprofessionally executed roof repairs, you can perform smaller repairs if you fulfill the following conditions.

You Possess the Know-How

Roof repairs, even small ones, can be performed properly only if you have the knowledge related to the procedures, the materials and the tools involved, so don’t attempt any repairs if you lack that knowledge.

You Can Do the Repair Safely

Roof repairs involve moving around at heights, so attempt the repair only if you feel comfortable up there on your roof and you possess the right gear. Whatever type of repair you are preparing to do, you will need a sturdy, stable ladder that can be safely attached to the roof edge, a proper fall-arrest system that allows you to anchor yourself safely while performing the repair and you will also need to wear the right clothes, including non-slip boots, a helmet and a good pair of work gloves.

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You Possess the Tools and the Materials

Familiarize yourself with the repair procedure as well as with the tools and materials that you will need. Prepare everything and figure out how you will take all the tools and materials up on the roof to have them all at hand before you start the work.

The Weather is Right

No roof repair can be performed when the weather is too hot or too cold, when the it is raining or snowing and when the wind is blowing too hard. Pick a day when the sky is a bit clouded, but the air is dry and comfortably warm.

Mistakes to Avoid

Roof repair involves not only physically demanding work, but attention to details as well. Here are some seemingly small DIY roof repair mistakes that can cost you a lot to remedy later:

  • Improperly used fasteners – roofing nails that have the heads exposed to the elements, nails of the wrong size or not driven in completely can cause new leaks to appear;
  • Superficial repairs – many DIY repairs address only the issue that is noticeable on the roof surface and fail to solve the problems that affect the deeper layers of the roof, such as the underlayment. When you repair your roof, pay attention to the signs of damage on the wooden structure of your roof as well.

Aspects Related to Your Roofing Insurance

Most roof insurance policies will not cover the roof owner for any damage caused by improper installation and repair performed by an unlicensed person, so if you make a mistake during your DIY repair, you are likely to lose the possibility to file a roofing claim if your roof suffers any damage because the quality of your work does not fulfill the conditions laid out in your insurance policy.

The best policy is to use roofing Houston TX contractors for all your roofing service needs.