Q: I’m planning to do my own roofing job. Is it possible to do one side of the roof at a time, finish one part and then go to the next part? This way I can work on it over time. The house is a gable ranch style. I have done a lot of DIY work, and I don’t really want to shell out thousands for a contractor.
A: Yes, an experienced DIYer can re-shingle a simple one-story roof, but roofing is among the most physically demanding and dangerous home-improvement projects. Most homeowners should carefully weigh the risks, complexity, and time commitment before deciding to tackle a roof replacement themselves.
It is possible to do the re-shingle job in sections. You can save a lot of money doing the job yourself, but it’s easy to make some mistakes that will come back to haunt you. The most typical homeowner mistake is incorrect installation of flashings. Be sure to properly flash your valleys, install step flashing at siding-to-roof seams, drip edge around the gutters and counter-flashing around your chimney. It would also be advisable to install a cricket at the chimney. Use the right type of tar paper and lap it properly. Read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to lay the shingles properly. Work in sections, shingle up the ridges and finish when you tear off the adjoining section. Be prepared to fix damaged sheathing, and keep a big tarp handy.
