When that worn-out roof starts looking rough, it’s tempting to break out the ladder and try tackling repairs yourself. But before you let your inner DIY warrior loose, consider this: roofing work is considered one of the most dangerous jobs, with about 50 roofers dying each year due to roofing-related accidents.
Attempting to roof like the pros may seem like a money-saving plan, but it often ends in disaster for amateurs. Meanwhile, hiring professional roofers is like getting insurance: it may hurt your wallet a bit upfront, but it saves you from financial catastrophe and headaches. Keep reading to learn why you should always call the experts regarding your roof.
- Avoid potential asbestos exposure.
Those old shingles would likely contain asbestos fibres if your home had been built before the 1980s. Breathing in these toxic fibres can cause lung diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer down the road. However, professionals handling asbestos roof repair take precautions to contain and dispose of the hazardous material safely.
Meanwhile, some DIY warriors won’t have proper respirators, protective equipment, or even a slight experience to deal with asbestos safely. Doing it yourself can expose your lungs and your family to this invisible carcinogen. So, it’s better to trust the asbestos pros to remove and replace your roof correctly.
- Stay safe from fall hazards.
According to a 2022 report, falling from elevation is the primary cause of death in the roofing industry, with 34% of fatalities recorded in 2020. This underscores the importance of prioritising safety when undertaking any roofing project.
Understandably, homeowners aren’t adequately equipped or trained to navigate a roof safely. However, for professional roofers, safety is part of the job. Reputable companies provide their crews with extensive fall prevention training and the latest safety gear, like harnesses, guardrails, nets, and personal fall arrest systems. Some even have full-time safety managers monitoring work sites.
When you hand over your roofing project to the experts, you can stay stress-free, knowing safety is baked into the whole approach. It also gives you confidence the job will be done right without sacrificing the well-being of anyone working in your home.
- Ensure proper installation
Getting it right matters when it comes to the roof over your head. The roof decking, underlayments, flashings, valleys, vents, and shingles must all seamlessly integrate to form a watertight barrier. Even the most minor installation error or missed step can compromise the performance of the entire roof. With the necessary expertise, DIY enthusiasts may be able to install each roofing component correctly and ensure they are integrated smoothly.
Hiring licensed, insured pros who install roofs day in and day out is the only way you can feel confident the job will be done right. Will you pay more upfront for that expertise? Sure, but it’s infinitely better than trying to cut corners and ending up with problems and repairs down the road that could cost exponentially more.
- Avoid the risk of working under hazardous weather.
Working on a roof during rain, snow, or strong winds is a recipe for disaster. While lightning strikes are less common in the UK, they can still be deadly, especially when working at height on a roof. Data from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) reveals 18 deaths from lightning strikes in the UK between 2011 and 2020. These deaths include people attempting outdoor DIY.
Other risks associated with roofing in bad weather include the following:
- Slippery surfaces: Rain, snow, and ice can turn a roof into a treacherous ice rink. Wet or icy surfaces significantly reduce traction and make it easier to lose your footing and fall.
- Reduced visibility: Heavy rain, fog, or snow can drastically reduce visibility, making it difficult to see potential hazards like uneven surfaces, loose tiles, or drop-off points. This can lead to missteps and falls.
- Strong winds: High winds can create a powerful destabilising force, especially at height. Wind gusts can make it challenging to maintain balance and could even blow tools or debris off the roof, creating additional hazards.
- Avoid using roof power tools that pose hazards.
If not handled correctly, power tools can cause serious injuries. Hiring a qualified roofer ensures they have the training, safety gear, and experience to handle these hazards, keeping you and your roof safe. While DIY projects can be quite tempting, some jobs, like roof repairs, pose serious safety risks.
As a DIYer, you may need to gain the expertise or proper knowledge to use power tools correctly or mitigate the risks. On the other hand, professional roofing contractors have had extensive training on power tool safety and provide their crews with protective eyewear, head shields, and cut-resistant gloves. They also ensure equipment is inspected regularly for issues and provide GFCI protection against electrocution.
When powerful cutting and grinding tools are overhead, it pays to rely on expert roofers who prioritise safety.
- Have access to speciality products.
As a homeowner, you’re only limited to whatever roofing materials are available at the local hardware store. However, those basic options may not meet your unique home and climate needs.
Beyond asphalt shingles, there are many roofing materials, from natural slate and metal to synthetic polymers and composites. Each material has its own specific installation and maintenance requirements. As a pro, roofing contractors have connections to wholesale distributors and manufacturers of these speciality products. They can source and install the exact type of high-end roof your home needs at trade prices one couldn’t get as a retail customer.
Takeaway
The bottom line is, don’t take chances with your roof. Hire professional roofers and breathe easier knowing your roofing project is handled safely and correctly. Their experience and expertise in all aspects of roofing – from specialised materials to safety protocols – are invaluable. So, trust the experts and ensure your roof is in the best possible hands.
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