(Newswire.net — April 17, 2023) —
Recently, there has been a surge in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, including roofing. While many homeowners take pride in completing home improvement projects on their own, some jobs should be left to professionals.
Gage Wilkinson, the owner of Better Built Contractors, a roofing contractor in Denham Springs, LA, has seen a rise in DIY roofing injuries and urges homeowners to prioritize safety.
The Dangers of DIY Roofing
Roofing is not an easy job, and it’s something that should be taken seriously. A roof is one of the most critical components of your home, and it’s essential to make sure that it’s installed properly. Unfortunately, many homeowners attempt to tackle roofing projects on their own without realizing the potential dangers that come with them.
According to Wilkinson, some of the most common DIY roofing mistakes include improper installation of flashing, failure to use the right materials, and lack of knowledge of proper safety measures.
“One of the biggest mistakes we see is homeowners not wearing the appropriate safety gear,” he said. “Falls are the most common injury we see, and they can be easily prevented by using a harness and taking the proper precautions.”
The risks of DIY roofing are not limited to falls alone. The following are other dangers associated with DIY roofing:
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Electrocution: If your roof comes into contact with electrical wires, you could be electrocuted. Professional roofing contractors are trained to identify potential hazards and take steps to mitigate them.
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Fire: If you’re unfamiliar with roofing materials, you could accidentally start a fire while installing your roof. Roofing materials are often flammable and can easily ignite if not handled properly.
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Structural damage: If you install your roof incorrectly, you could cause structural damage to your home. This could result in costly repairs down the line.
Wilkinson shared a few stories of recent injuries he’s seen both in Denham Springs and throughout the area.
“We had a homeowner who fell off his roof while trying to replace a few shingles,” he said. “He ended up with a broken arm and several other injuries. Another homeowner tried to install a skylight on his own and ended up causing a leak in his roof that caused thousands of dollars in damage. These are just a few examples of the dangers of DIY roofing.”
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Roofing Contractor
While DIY roofing seems like a good way to save money, it can cost you more in the long run. By hiring a professional roofing contractor, you can ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Here are some of the benefits of hiring a professional:
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Experience: Professional roofing contractors have years of experience and training. They have the knowledge and skills to handle any roofing project, big or small.
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Safety: Professional roofing contractors are trained to identify potential hazards and take steps to mitigate them. They have the appropriate safety gear and equipment to prevent accidents and injuries.
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Quality workmanship: Professional roofing contractors take pride in their work and strive to provide quality workmanship. They use high-quality materials and pay attention to every detail to ensure that your roof is installed correctly and will last for years to come.
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Warranty: Professional roofing contractors offer warranties on their work. This means that if anything goes wrong with your roof after it’s been installed, they will come back and fix it for you at no additional cost.
DIY Roofing Tips
For those who still want to tackle roofing projects on their own, Wilkinson suggests doing proper research and utilizing resources such as Better Built Contractor’s article on common DIY roofing mistakes.
“Our goal is to educate homeowners on the potential dangers of DIY roofing and provide them with the knowledge they need to do it right,” he said. Here are some additional tips for homeowners who are considering a DIY roofing project:
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Start small: If you’re new to DIY roofing, start with a small project, such as replacing a few shingles. This will allow you to learn the basics before taking on a larger project.
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Get the right tools and materials: Ensure you have all the tools and materials you need before starting your project. This will help prevent delays and ensure that your project goes smoothly.
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Follow instructions carefully: If you’re using a DIY roofing kit, make sure you read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly. This will help ensure that your roof is installed correctly and safely.
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Use proper safety gear: Always wear the appropriate safety gear, including a harness, gloves, and a hard hat. This will help prevent accidents and injuries.
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Know when to call in the professionals: If you encounter any issues or problems during your project, don’t hesitate to call a professional roofing contractor. It’s better to be safe than sorry; a professional can help ensure that your roof is installed correctly and safely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rise in DIY roofing injuries is a cause for concern. While DIY projects can be a great way to save money and learn new skills, prioritizing safety is crucial, especially when working on your roof. Hiring a professional roofing contractor is the best way to ensure your roof is installed correctly and safely.
For those who still want to tackle roofing projects on their own, it’s important to do proper research, use the right tools and materials, and prioritize safety at all times. By taking these steps, homeowners can successfully complete DIY roofing projects while minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.
If you’re interested in learning more ways to ensure your DIY roofing project is safe, read this blog post on Better Built Contractors’ website.