If you are a homeowner, you need to think about many things. Your property likely needs regular landscaping. Heating and cooling systems should be maintained. And you have to keep your roof in pristine condition.
This means having your roof inspected every so often to ensure your home is protected. It may be tempting to save money and get up on your roof yourself. However, DIY roof inspections can be dangerous, and the risks usually outweigh the minimal benefits.
Getting your roof inspected by a professional is an investment in your home that will save you time and money and keep you away from harm.
Here are six reasons you should not get up on that roof.
1. High Risk of Injury
Falls from roofs account for a significant number of ER visits every year. Therefore, the biggest risk of a DIY roof inspection is falling and injuring yourself.
Weather conditions often change at the drop of a dime. Strong winds, rain, ice, and snow can make a roof incredibly slippery. Getting on a roof without safety gear can lead to a slip and fall. This can result in serious injury or even death.
Professional roofing contractors have the experience and tools to inspect a roof without risk of harm.
2. Structural Instability
If you have an old roof, there may be unseen damage, causing the roof to be structurally unstable. If you step onto a weak or damaged area, that section could collapse, creating a dangerous situation.
A professional roof inspector is specifically trained to identify and avoid unstable sections. They have the right tools to assess damage without putting excess weight on the roof.
3. Lack of Expertise
Roof inspections also require more than just a quick once-over. If you want to do a DIY inspection, you must know what to look for. You need to check for water damage, rot, mold, and poor installation.
You will not know what to look for if you are not a professional. This means you will likely miss warning signs, which will cost you a lot of money in repairs later.
Keep in mind that the climate can be extreme both ways. It can get really hot and cold, so your roof is constantly exposed to severe weather and temperatures. This can cause issues with your roof that only a professional can spot and fix.
4. Voiding Warranty
If you have an active roof warranty, you could void it accidentally by inspecting your roof. If you void the warranty, you will be left unprotected if your roof fails.
It is important to check the terms of your warranty. It will likely state that only a professional should inspect your roof. By hiring a professional contractor, you comply with your warranty terms and make a valuable investment in your home.
5. You Could Disturb a Nest
You may not want to think about it, but getting up on your roof could also disturb a nest. Bees, wasps, and insects often build nests in chimneys or nearby trees. If you disturb these nests, chances are you will get stung.
This is a bad situation to create, especially if you are allergic to bee or wasp stings. The bees or wasps could also enter your home, putting your family at risk. Avoiding this type of harm is another reason to leave a roof inspection to the professionals.
6. Liability Concerns
If you climb onto your roof and do not have the training to inspect it, you become liable for your injuries if you fall. Likely, your insurance provider will not pay your medical expenses. And, if you further damage your roof during the fall, you will also not be able to claim for repairs.
Professional roof inspectors are insured and bonded. If an accident happens while they inspect your roof, they are liable for damages and injuries. So, if you hire a professional, you protect yourself and your family from unnecessary expenses.
Professional Roof Inspection Is the Better Choice
When you hire a professional roof inspector, you get someone trained to use safety gear and safety techniques. A professional inspector knows what tools to use and what issues to look for in your roof.
The inspector will also give you the information you need to keep your roof in excellent condition. You may get a recommendation for repairs or a complete replacement.
Investing in a professional roof inspection is the smartest decision you can make. It will help you protect your home, family, and pocket.