Do It Yourself or Hire a Roofing Contractor

From 1991 to 1999 television series Home Improvement ruled the airwaves with its leading man Tim “The Toolman” Taylor, host of the home-improvement show “Tool Time,” who definitely is not as handy at home as he is on screen. Fortunately for Tim (Tim Allen) his side kick Al Borland (Richard Karn) actually knew what he was doing over the 203 episodes. The question then is when it comes to home improvements, are you a ‘Tim’ or an ‘Al’ or more simply, should you do-it-yourself (DIY) or hire a pro for home improvements?

When it comes to siding, roofing, eavestroughing, soffit and fascia installations there are lots of reasons to work with a professional organization like Century Roofing Limited to help you to fill all those needs. Based in Calgary with completed projects throughout Central and Southern Alberta and Eastern British Columbia, we ensure that you get a strong, durable roof with the job right the first time. Since 1981 we’ve done all that and more so it’s easy to see why we’re the preferred roofing contractor of so many insurance companies.

That said, while we do this every day, the DIY handyperson doesn’t so you need to ask yourself these four simple questions and, if you can’t answer yes to them, then you probably should consider hiring a professional. Remember, while DIY’s cost savings may seem enticing, if your skills aren’t up to snuff, the result won’t impress would-be buyers when it comes time to sell meaning a lower valuation of your home. Likewise, unsound or improperly done work could be dangerous and costly to correct.

The first question involves materials - do you know what’s needed for the project? For any project to be successful you need to get a sense of what will be involved, what you’ll need, and what it’ll cost.

Next - do you have the knowledge and tools you need? Knowing when a job is beyond your abilities is critical for your safety and others. Purchasing specialty tools for a once every 20 years project doesn’t make much sense either. This is where a skills and tools inventory comes in handy and if either are lacking, this might suggest it’s time to call in a professional.

Question three is one of the least considered in DIY projects - do you have the time and stamina? There’s your day job, routine activities, and special events that don’t take time off for the duration of the project as well as getting older and the “I’m not going to do that anymore” reality of life. Renovations and DIY projects can be physically challenging in addition to your everyday activities so you need to ask yourself “Do I have enough gas in the tank” to see the project through to completion – on time and on budget.

Finally, there are legal issues like - do you feel like dealing with any needed permits or licenses? Knowing the laws in your community, what you can and can’t do, and what things need inspections means checking with your local building or planning department, and complying with codes, permits, and inspection rules. Hiring an experienced and qualified contractor gives homeowners’ peace of mind and confidence the job was done right and complies with the law.

Calgary Roofing Contractors
At Century Roofing Limited, we handle virtually everything having to do with roofing. If you have questions about your homes or business exterior contact us at 403-235-5457 today to plan your next project and get a free estimate.