TRUE Costs for DIY Roofing in 2023

How much does it cost to reshingle your own roof?

If you’re considering reroofing your home yourself, it’s essential to understand the costs involved. While DIY roofing may seem like an economical option, it’s important to consider the potential risks and expenses involved.

Here are some things to consider:

• Time to replace the roof yourself vs 1 day with a crew, ie what’s your time worth
• Risk Potential Injuries & lost work / vacation time
• Cost of Materials
• You warranty your own work

According to some our roofing material supplier, a 2,200 to 3,400 square foot roof with asphalt shingles could cost between $4,000 and $7,000 if you install it yourself. It’s worth noting that the cost of removing the old roof is a significant expense. When you hire a roofing company, the removal of the old roof costs around $1 to $5 per square foot. Most of the time, a roofing contractor will factor roof removal into the total cost of the roofing project. However, if you find rotted roof decking, you may need to also replace the supports, and this may run up to $10,000.

In comparison, a professional roofing company will charge around $10,000 or $12,000 for architectural asphalt shingles, underlayment and flashing material. Roofing materials can cost from $100 per square to $1,000 per square. Most roofs around 2,200 square feet (two stories) need 24 squares. A “square” is 100 square feet.

Do you really need permits to replace a roof?

In some cases, you might not need to obtain building permits from your local city or town to reroof your home. However, it’s essential to check with your local authorities to determine if permits are required. It’s important to be aware of the permits required and to obtain them to avoid potential legal issues. Building without a permit is a building code violation, and fines for building without a permit can cost you around $100 per day. If they go unpaid, a lien can be placed on your home by the city.

Note: In North Carolina, replacing an existing residential roof normally does not need a permit.

What’s Your Time Worth – How long does it take to reroof a house by yourself? 

The time it takes to reroof a house by yourself can vary significantly depending on the size of the roof, the condition of the existing roof, and the number of people working on the project, and your strength and agility.

If you’re planning to reroof your home alone, it could take several days or even weeks to complete the job. On the other hand, if you have a team of six or more people, the project could be completed in a day or two. And you know how often storms pop up and rain in North Carolina.
Working alone can be challenging, especially when it comes to lifting and installing heavy roofing materials. It’s essential to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and wear appropriate safety gear such as non-slip shoes, gloves, and a harness when working on the roof.
However, working with a team can help distribute the workload and make the job more manageable. It’s also safer to work in groups, as it’s easier to spot potential hazards and prevent accidents from happening.

Ultimately, the decision to reroof your home by yourself or with a team depends on your level of expertise, the size of the job, and your budget. While DIY roofing could save you money, it’s crucial to consider the potential risks and expenses involved and weigh them against the benefits of hiring a professional roofing company.

Injuries and Lost Work Time

Undertaking DIY roofing can lead to serious injuries, which can be both debilitating and costly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 150,000 Americans require medical treatment as a result of roofing accidents every year. Common injuries from falling off a roof include broken bones and fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord and back injuries, and puncture wounds. These injuries can be severe and may result in long-term disability or even death. According to American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons 97% were people at their own houses. Do you want to risk being a statistic to save a few thousand dollars?

Apart from the physical and emotional toll of such accidents, there are also financial implications. The average total cost of a fall from a roof was $62,521, which includes medical bills and lost work time. The direct costs, which include medical bills and rehabilitation, amount to an average of $36,776. This highlights the importance of following proper safety procedures when working on roofs, testing out the structure before bearing weight on it, and seeking the assistance of trained professionals for roofing projects. Our team is trained in these procedures and we are insured for the risk. Do you know how to recongnize a soft spot on a roof?

Not sure reroofing your home is the right choice?

TruBlue Roofing and Remodeling takes meticulous care in obtaining the right materials and team to reroof your home. We go above and beyond to make sure all city or town building codes are adhered to and that the job is to code, everytime. That means we save you the hassle of going back and forth to city offices and filling out complex paperwork, dealing with insurance companies, or risking injury. We handle it all for you! Call us today in Raleigh at (919) 589-7290 or in Wilmington at (910) 319-7249 or fill out the form below for a free no obligation roof inspection and quote.

For more tips about DIY roof replacement, check out our blog article “Should you reshingle your own roof?”