We understand the urge to save money, but the roof is not the place for a quick weekend fix. While a professional repair may seem like an expense, an incorrect DIY job almost always costs you more in the long run. Here are the top 7 mistakes we see Maryland homeowners make when trying to fix their own roofs.
1. Neglecting Safety (The Most Critical Error)
Roofing is one of the most dangerous jobs. Homeowners often skip vital safety equipment like harnesses, proper non-slip footwear, and securely anchored ladders. A fall is not a repair—it’s a costly tragedy.
2. Using the Wrong Sealant
Homeowners often slap roofing cement, caulk, or tar over a problem area. This material is not a permanent solution, can quickly degrade under UV rays, and often traps water instead of diverting it, making the underlying problem worse. The correct fix usually involves lifting, replacing, and correctly layering shingles and flashing.
3. Improper Nailing Technique
Incorrectly securing shingles is a primary cause of future leaks. Nailing too high, too low, or driving the nail too deep (called “over-driving”) can cause the shingle to blow off in the next windstorm or allow water to seep through the nail hole.
4. Ignoring the Starter Strip
The starter strip is the first, crucial layer of shingle that seals the vulnerable lower edge of the roof. DIY repairers often skip replacing this layer, which is essential to prevent wind uplift and water infiltration at the eave.
5. Walking on the Roof Incorrectly
Unless you’re a trained roofer, walking on a hot asphalt roof can cause significant damage. Shingles are brittle when cold and soft when hot. Foot traffic can knock off protective granules, scuff the surface, and immediately reduce the shingle’s lifespan.
6. Repairing Flashing with Caulk or Glue
Flashing is designed to shed water, not stop it with glue. The job of a flashing repair is to replace rusted or damaged metal, or to tuck new metal underneath existing shingles and sealants in a way that water naturally flows over it. A bead of caulk on the surface is a temporary mask that will fail quickly.
7. Voids the Warranty
Attempting significant repairs yourself can easily void the manufacturer’s warranty on the entire roof. If you later file a claim and an adjuster finds evidence of improper, non-professional repair work, the claim may be denied, forcing you to pay for a full replacement. Always call a professional for anything beyond gutter cleaning.
Your Safest Investment is a Professional Repair
When you weigh the slight, short-term savings of a DIY fix against the risk of voiding your manufacturer’s warranty, facing dangerous falls, and incurring water damage from an incorrect repair, the choice is clear. Your roof is your home’s most vital line of defense, and its complex systems are best handled by certified, experienced professionals who guarantee their workmanship. Don’t let a simple mistake turn into a full roof replacement; if you suspect damage, step away from the ladder and call Colonial Roofing instead. We’re here to protect your home and your peace of mind.
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