Most homeowners have a running list of repair and improvement projects. A savvy homeowner may feel comfortable taking on some of these tasks themselves. A homeowner who lacks tools, time, or DIY experience may have a professional handyman on call to tackle general home repair and improvement projects. A handyman is someone who qualified, experienced, and has the tools to handle a wide variety of “odd jobs” like installing or repairing shelving, cabinets, fixtures, and faucets, cleaning gutters and windows, and painting or caulking inside or out. For more complex tasks, licenced specialists like plumbers, electricians, and professional roofers are needed.
Your roofing and siding are your home’s first line of defense against water, air, and pests. Age, severe weather, or accidents like tree falls and ice build-up can damage your home’s roof or siding and cause leaks. A leaking roof can lead to mold or rot inside your home, impacting air quality, insulation, or even affecting your home’s HVAC and electrical systems. Roofing and siding damage must be dealt with quickly to protect your investment in your home.
So how do you know when you or a handyman can repair a damaged roof or siding, and when you need a specialist?
A handyman will typically charge by the hour, and you will need to supply the materials needed for their work. If you have just a few missing or damaged shingles or a few cracks in your siding, a handyman can likely replace or repair these issues before they escalate. But if you suspect more serious issues, it’s best to call a professional.
A roofing or siding professional will have the expertise and specialized tools to diagnose and repair problems beneath the surface, like damage or decay that has affected the underlayment, sheathing, flashing, or structure. A contractor will typically provide a free estimate for their work. They will visit your home and inspect the damage, possibly removing a few shingles or part of your siding to check the condition of the materials underneath and assess the tools and materials they’ll need for the job.
Professional grade tools and supplies to get the job done right
A professional contractor will purchase any supplies and materials that are needed. Many roofing materials are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, which will only be valid if they are properly installed by a licensed professional. A contractor will also have access to professional grade tools that a homeowner or handyman may not.
Because contractors perform the same work for many hours a day, every day, it is important for them to have efficient and ergonomic tools like the Original Shingle Eater, which is designed by contractors, for contractors. A roofing contractor will remove damaged roofing materials with a specialized tool like the Shingle Eater, which allows them to strip multiple layers of asphalt shingles and pull roofing nails in one pass. The Shingle Eater Junior lets them strip roofing in tight areas around dormers and eaves, and they will also use it to cleanly pry away flashing and gutters without damaging the shingles or siding. A roofing, siding, or flooring contractor may also use Shingle Eater’s Demo Eater for heavy duty work, prying up roof decking, sheathing, or even hardwood flooring with ease.
Protect your investment over time
Your roof is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your home. A properly installed roof will last 20–25 years, protecting your home from the elements and maximizing its value and curb appeal. If it’s time for a new roof or a significant repair, a professional roofing contractor will be equipped with the specialized tools, expertise, and materials to ensure that your roof protects your home- your most financially significant asset.
