IT IS NO SMALL COMMITMENT TO PERFORM THE WORK ON YOUR ROOF
Many people undertake big roofing projects thinking they can save money, and maybe even time. What they often fail to realize is that roofing projects often grown once you begin the actual work. A project that was expected to take a single afternoon can balloon into a week, or two or three. Once you start tearing off or making repairs, you often find other issues that you were unaware of. Some of the most important advice you can take before deciding to work on your roof is: makes sure you have the time to commit to the project.
Projects Grow Once Started
As stated in the introduction, roofing projects tend to grow in scale and duration once started. Many DIY projects suffer from this, but roofing projects seem to be especially susceptible. Say you wanted to replace a drain. That will most likely involve a small amount of roof tear-off. So you begin tearing off around the drain, and realize the insulation around the drain is wet. Well, now you want to replace that insulation which requires a little more tear-off. You tear off some more, and then you have to order more panels or more material to replace the roofing area. You also have to order new insulation. Before long, a simple repair is looking like a three-week project. Before you start, make sure you or someone with you has the time to take care of the project should it grow.
Other Things Come Up
As the project grows, your schedule also rarely stays the same. Think about any three-week stretch in the past year. Your plans probably changed at least once, and they probably changed 3-4 times. As you begin your project, you may have a new commitment come up that takes away your time. You may find other, more pressing projects arise. Part of having time to complete a roofing project is being able to block out a week or two of your schedule, which may not be possible for many of us.
Incomplete Projects Cause More Problems
A project that is started and then interrupted is generally worse than a project that was never started. A minor leak may lead to 8 square feet of exposed insulation overnight. If you can’t complete the project, you may be calling a contractor in a rush and hoping they can get to you before the next rain. Starting and not finishing a project can cause major damage to your roof, building, and sanity.
Conclusion
Working on your roof to save money sometimes works, but sometimes it doesn’t. Working on your roof to save time is even less successful. There are just some things that are better suited for professionals, and roof repair is very often one of those things. A professional has the equipment and they know what to look for. Make sure if you do undertake a roofing project, you check your schedule far in advance before doing so.
