Professional Vs. DIY Roofing Projects

June 27, 2023

Maintaining and repairing your roof is an essential part of homeownership. While some roofing tasks can be safely handled by confident homeowners, others require the expertise and experience of professional roofers.

Knowing which projects you can tackle on your own and which ones are best left to the professionals is crucial for the safety of your home and yourself. Below are some common DIY roofing projects, as well as projects that should be handled by professionals.

Roofing Projects a Homeowner Can Handle

There are some projects that you, the homeowner, can handle on your own including:

Cleaning Gutters

One of the simplest DIY roofing tasks is cleaning gutters. Regular maintenance in this area prevents water damage and helps keep your roof in good condition. However, it is essential to use proper safety equipment and follow safety guidelines when working on ladders or rooftops.

Gutters can be cleaned with a leaf blower, or you can remove leaves and other debris by hand. Inspect the gutters as you clean them to look for any damage that may need to be repaired.

Cleaning Roof

Cleaning a roof involves removing loose debris, such as leaves, branches, or twigs. You can use a soft-bristled broom or a roof rake to gently sweep the surface. Pay attention to valleys, gutters, and areas around chimneys or skylights, as they tend to accumulate more debris.

If you notice signs of mold or mildew on your roof, it's important to address them promptly. Use a roof cleaner specifically formulated for removing mold and mildew. Apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer's instructions and allow it to sit for the recommended time. Use a soft brush or low-pressure washer to scrub the affected areas gently, then rinse thoroughly with water.

Projects Best Left to Professionals

Some roofing projects—due to their complexity, safety risks, and potential for further damage—should only be handled by professionals. These include:

Full Roof Replacements

Installing a new roof requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and experience to ensure proper installation and warranty coverage. Installing a new roof involves ripping off the old roof, cleaning the gutters, installing the roof, and then cleaning up. The roofing contractor will also do an inspection when the work is finished.

Complex Repairs Around Chimneys, Skylights, or Valleys

If there is any damage around a chimney, skylight, or in the valley of the roof, this will require a professional. Professionals will use their expertise and precise techniques to prevent leaks, as well as ensure proper integration with the existing roofing system.

Applying Roof Sealant

Applying a roof sealant or coating can help prolong the lifespan of your roof and protect it from the elements. This task typically involves cleaning the roof surface, repairing any existing damage, and applying the sealant or coating. This should be left up to professionals to handle, as it is important it is done correctly.

Installing Roof Ventilation

Improving roof ventilation can enhance energy efficiency and prevent moisture buildup in your attic. While installing basic roof vents can be a DIY project, more complex ventilation systems, such as ridge vents or solar-powered vents, require professional expertise for proper installation and integration with the existing roofing system.

Installing Roof Insulation

Adding or upgrading roof insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. It is important to understand the insulation requirements and follow local building codes. Because of this, installing roofing insulation is best left to a roofing contractor.

If you are having problems with your roof or want a professional to inspect it, contact DeShazo and Son Roofing, Inc., today for more information and to schedule a consultation.

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DeShazo and Son Roofing Community Service for the VFW

June 4, 2025

DeShazo and Son Roofing was founded in 1962 by Joe Motley DeShazo Sr.; a World War II navy veteran. We understand the importance of the men and women that sacrifice for their country and ensure the freedoms we enjoy every day. This past year we were granted the opportunity to partner with QXO (formally Beacon Supply) and the Beacon of Hope Program to give back to this community. The VFW Post 622 in Petersburg, VA is a non- profit organization dedicated to connecting, servicing and advocating for combat veterans that have been involved in overseas conflicts. Over the years their roof had fallen into disrepair. They needed assistance in replacing it to give our veterans a safe place to congregate. When they were one of the five organizations selected in the entire country for the beacon of hope program, John Gibson reached out to see if we were interested. Our senior estimator, Matthew Corker, didn’t hesitate and got to work planning out the project. This project was approximately 3,000 square feet of flat roofing. We tore off the pre-existing EPDM roofing system down to the deck. We then replaced it with a fully adhered TPO system. At the completion of the project, we were honored to receive a plaque from the post members thanking us for the services to their building. We are grateful to be in a position where we can give back to the community. The members of the VFW have given so much to all of us, and we are humbled to help them in their time of need. We look forward to more opportunities to give back to our community in the future and to continue working with the Beacon of Hope program.