It happened, didn’t it? That storm rolled through, and now your roof looks like it went a few rounds with Mother Nature. As homeowners, we take pride in knowing our homes protect us from extreme weather and all the other surprises the outside world throws at us. But sometimes, that protection comes at a cost, and the roof usually takes the brunt of it.
So, here you are, staring at your storm-damaged roof and wondering, “How much is this going to cost me?” If you’re like most people, you might be tempted to Google your way through the problem and figure out how to tackle the repairs yourself.
Sound familiar?
At RoofCrafters, we’ve been helping homeowners across the Southeast navigate storm damage for over 30 years. In that time, we’ve seen, heard, and fixed it all. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this: when it comes to roof repairs, especially after a storm, DIY isn’t always the money-saver it seems to be.
In this article, we’ll break down the risks of DIY roof repair, what you should know before climbing that ladder, and when it’s smarter (and safer) to call a professional roofing contractor. Let’s get started!
What is a DIY Roof Repair?
DIY roof repair is exactly what it sounds like: fixing your roof without hiring a licensed roofing contractor.
In some parts of your home, DIY projects can be simple and rewarding. But when it comes to your roof, the stakes are much higher. Your roof is what protects your entire home (and everything inside of it) against rain, wind, hail, and extreme temperatures. If something goes wrong with a DIY repair, the consequences can go far beyond a cosmetic issue.
Your roof isn’t just shingles nailed to wood; It’s a carefully engineered system of underlayment, ventilation, flashing, and waterproofing barriers, all designed to work together. If one piece is installed incorrectly or damaged, you could be opening the door to even more expensive problems down the road.
Potential Risks of Repairing Your Own Storm-Damaged Roof
When repairing a roof yourself, there will be risks. Whether you're up to facing potential issues is up to you, but let's dive deeper into those risks before you jump into fixing roof damage.
Roofing Work is Dangerous
But how dangerous? When considering working on your roof, you have to think about all of the things that’ll potentially be involved. From ladders to specific kinds of equipment to, yes, even the right shoes- there is more involved in roof work than you may think.
Imagine trying to fix your metal roof after an ice storm. You'll likely try to juggle getting the work done by trying not to fall or wrongly apply your materials. Slipping and breaking a body part isn't actually as uncommon as you may think. Even minor repairs that can take place on top of a roof are risky if you aren't a professional because it's likely that you won't have access to the proper safety equipment.
Your Roof is Complex
Remember earlier when I mentioned roofing elements coming together to create an intricate system? Well, that's entirely true. When you look at a roof from eye level on the outside of your home, what do you see?
Visible to the eye are the shingles and other outer parts of the roofing system. On the inside, however, there are other essential parts that play massive roles in the structure and function of the roof.
Many parts of the roof serve multiple purposes, and if they're installed incorrectly or moved, the rest of the roofing system may suffer. Even shingles installed the wrong way will increase the risk of damage to your roof, which can cause leaks and much more severe issues. Leaks lead to mold, critter infestations, and possibly the eventual collapse of the home.
DIY Projects Can Be Costly
Homeowners try to repair parts of their homes themselves for one main reason: to save money. However, the reality is if you aren't experienced and know what you're doing entirely, problems can arise. Let's say you begin repairing storm damage to your roof and realize it requires more than you initially thought.
You already bought materials and maybe even equipment, which can be costly on its own. You may have also begun the repairs themselves. If you end up having to call a contractor out for an inspection, you may get the news that they not only need to fix the storm damage, but the repairs you made also damaged the home further.
No Warranty
Some roofers offer a warranty on the roofing projects they perform, which instills confidence and trust in the quality of their craft. If you or an unqualified roofer attempts to repair the roof instead, you will get no guarantee, leaving you with wasted time and money if issues come about.
Roofing projects require a certain degree of expertise, so it's wise to consider hiring a roofing contractor that offers the option of a warranty to protect you and your home. Reputable and highly-skilled roofers stand behind their installation jobs with a workmanship warranty, which will give you peace of mind and help save you money in the long run.
Should You Repair Your Storm-Damaged Roof Yourself?
Could you? Technically, yes. Should you? That’s a different story.
DIY might be great for painting a room or building a deck, but storm-damaged roofs are a whole different ballgame. Hiring a professional roofing contractor means you’ll get expert eyes on the damage, the right materials, and the peace of mind that your roof is safe and sound.
And here’s the thing: not all roofing contractors are created equal. Before you hire someone, make sure you research their qualifications, check reviews, and verify their license and insurance. A reputable roofer will offer transparency, provide a written estimate, and explain your options clearly.
Ready to Get Your Roof Back in Shape?
If you’re facing a storm-damaged roof and are unsure what to do next, RoofCrafters is here to help! We’ve been serving homeowners in the Southeast for over three decades, helping them recover from the unexpected and protect their biggest investment: their home.
If you’re interested in learning more, check out our guide on How to Find the Right Roofing Contractor or continue exploring our Roofing Learning Center for expert resources on roof repair, maintenance, and storm recovery.
When you’re ready, be sure to hit that “Schedule an Inspection” button below, and one of our experts will walk you through the process. Whether you need help assessing storm damage or just want an honest roof repair estimate, we’ve got your back.
