It can be tempting to repair seemingly minor roof damage, like a missing shingle, on your own. Although the repair may initially look simple, there are many things that can go wrong. Hiring a roofing contractor for even minor fixes, instead of doing it yourself, is a good idea.

1. Material Matching

Roof shingle designs and colors are frequently discontinued, which can make it difficult for the homeowner to find a good match if only a few shingles need to be replaced. Professionals often have leads on leftover materials from past roofing jobs, as well as access to a greater range of current shingle styles, so it is much easier for them to match your old shingles for repairs.

2. Supply Savings

It will be much more expensive to purchase a couple of shingles versus buying enough for a whole roof due to bulk pricing. Your roofer will combine the material order for your roof with those of larger jobs, thus ensuring that the best price is paid. Pros also typically have access to contractor pricing discounts. The savings on supplies alone may offset the increased cost of labor.

3. Diagnostic Services

Damages can be much more extensive than they first appear to the novice. Hidden leaks and damage to the roof sheathing are easy issues to overlook when you are focused only on the highly visible torn shingle, for example. A roofer will do a full diagnostic check on your roof before beginning repairs. This way you can be sure that all of the damage is fixed, not just what you can see.

4. Repair Quality

An amateur repair can sometimes stand out due to small mistakes, such as not properly aligning the replacement shingles. The repair may also not last as long, since a homeowner is less likely to know the best techniques for completing a repair. Professionals not only perform higher quality repairs, but they also typically warranty their work in the event that the repair does fail at some point in the future.

5. Better Safety

The roof is a steep and dangerous place, and a slip can lead to a major injury or even death. The pros have the right safety equipment, from shoes to safety harnesses, to ensure that the job can be completed without any risk to life and limb. For the sake of your own safety, roof repairs should be left to a roofing contractor.

Contact a roofing contractor in your area if you need a roof repair.