DIY Roofing Projects vs Hiring a Professional: Pros and Cons
June 12, 2024
When it comes to roofing projects, homeowners must decide whether to tackle the job themselves or hire a professional roofing contractor. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider carefully. Whether you're a homeowner in Ohio or Florida, understanding the factors involved in this decision can make a significant difference in the outcome of your roofing project.
DIY Roofing Projects
The idea of undertaking DIY roofing projects can seem quite appealing to those who are hands-on and enjoy the thrill of personal accomplishment. However, you must weigh the pros and cons before embarking on this journey.
Pros
One of the main reasons homeowners decide to handle roofing projects themselves is to save on labor costs. Without the need to pay for a professional contractor, you may be able to significantly cut down the total expense.
Completing a DIY roofing project can also provide an immense sense of satisfaction. This hands-on approach is a chance to learn new skills and feel proud of your effort and investment in your home.
Cons
Roofing projects come with inherent safety risks. Working at heights, handling heavy materials, and navigating potentially tricky roof slopes can lead to accidents if not done correctly. Missteps can result in serious injury or even fatality.
As a substantial project, roofing requires significant time commitment and physical effort. Depending on the size and complexity of the roof, it could take weeks or even longer to complete, especially for those less experienced. This time might be better utilized if focused on other personal or professional commitments.
Professional Roofing Services
While some homeowners enjoy the challenge of a DIY project, others choose to hire professional roofing services. This choice also comes with its unique set of benefits and downsides.
Pros
Years of experience and skills are the top advantages of hiring professional roofing services. These companies train their employees to handle various roofing challenges, ensuring they install or repair your roof correctly. You can trust their expertise to avoid common mistakes that novices might make.
Another benefit of hiring a professional is the quality of materials and workmanship. Professionals have access to high-quality materials at wholesale prices. Furthermore, they are masters of their craft, which means the quality of work will be superior to what an amateur can produce, thereby increasing the lifespan of your roof.
Cons
One of the most common drawbacks of hiring a professional roofer is the higher cost. Though you indeed pay for their expertise and high-quality materials, these services can be pricey compared to doing it yourself.
A second downside is the dependency on contractor availability. Good roofing contractors are often booked months in advance, especially during peak construction seasons. As a result, you may have to wait longer than you'd like to start your roofing project.
Considerations for DIY Projects
Before embarking on a DIY roofing project, several factors need to be taken into account. Firstly, roofing needs specific materials and tools, some of which could be expensive or challenging to obtain. It's crucial to factor in these costs and ensure you have all the necessary tools before starting your project, as failing to do so may lead to compromised quality or safety risks.
Another key consideration is adherence to local permits and regulations. Building codes vary by location, and ensuring your project complies can be a complex task. Neglecting to comply could result in fines or legal issues and may even affect your home's insurance or resale value.
Considerations for Hiring a Professional
When opting for professional help, careful research and selection of contractors are imperative. Checking online reviews, asking for references, and requesting quotes from multiple companies can aid in finding a reliable and reasonably priced service.
You should also consider contract and warranty features. Read all conditions and understand what a company covers in the warranty before signing a contract. This can prevent potential disputes or disappointments down the line.
Comparison and Decision-Making
Assessing the scope of your roofing project is vital in this decision-making process. Minor repairs or replacements might be manageable for a handy homeowner, but larger projects may require the skill and experience of a professional roofer.
Evaluating your personal skill level and comfort factor is also key. If you're not confident in your abilities or comfortable working at heights, hiring a professional may be the safer and more sensible choice.
Making an Informed Roofing Decision
Whether you undertake a DIY project or hire a professional, understanding the pros and cons of each option can save you time, money, and potential stress. Consider all factors, from cost and time commitments to expertise and available resources.
In the end, the best decision is an informed one. Whether you opt for a DIY project or professional service, the important thing is that your roofing project is completed safely and effectively, ultimately enhancing the value and longevity of your home.
If you live in Florida, you already know that hurricane season isn’t a maybe—it’s a matter of when. While we love the sunshine, ocean breezes, and afternoon thunderstorms, that warm tropical air can flip from peaceful to powerful real quick. Every year, as the forecasts roll in and storm names start popping up, homeowners across the state scramble to “get ready.” But even with the best intentions, it's easy to overlook a few crucial things that could make a world of difference. So let’s talk about the top six mistakes Florida homeowners make when preparing for a hurricane—and more importantly, how to avoid them with confidence. 1. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Prepare We’ve all been there. One minute you're watching the weather casually, and the next you're in a mile-long line at the hardware store, fighting over the last pack of batteries. Spoiler alert: Hurricane prep doesn’t work well when it’s rushed. What to do instead: Treat hurricane prep like spring cleaning—it’s just part of your routine. Stock up early on water, flashlights, batteries, canned food, and yes—don’t forget the wine (because let’s be honest, you’ll want it). Also, get those inspection appointments on the books before everyone else does. Roofers, inspectors, and tree trimmers get backed up fast once a storm is named. 2. Ignoring the Roof Because It “Looks Fine” If it’s not leaking, it’s fine… right? Not quite. Your roof is the only thing standing between your home and Mother Nature’s worst mood swings. And unfortunately, some of the most dangerous damage is the kind you can’t see from the ground. What to do instead: Call in a local pro ( like us 😉) for a free roof inspection. Even minor damage—like a lifted shingle or loose flashing—can turn into major leaks once 100 mph winds start ripping through. Preventive care now saves you money, stress, and that awful feeling of dripping water in your living room later. 3. Overlooking the Small Stuff: Soffits, Gutters, and Vents You boarded your windows, stocked your pantry, and reinforced the garage door—but did you check your soffits? Or clean out your gutters? Or make sure your attic vents are properly sealed? What to do instead: These little details can be your weakest link during a storm. Loose soffits or clogged gutters can lead to wind uplift or water backing into your home. A quick exterior inspection can make all the difference. Better yet—have a pro do it so nothing gets missed. 4. Relying Too Much on Insurance Without Proof Here’s a tough truth: insurance companies don’t always make it easy. Especially when you can’t prove the damage happened after the storm, and not before. What to do instead: Take 15 minutes and do a walkaround video of your home before hurricane season. Capture the roof, windows, soffits, gutters—everything. Even better? Schedule a professional inspection and get documentation. Having photos, reports, and dated notes makes filing a claim way easier if you ever need to. 5. Skipping Professional Help Until It’s Too Late We get it—you’re busy, and it’s tempting to just “eyeball” your roof or rely on the neighbor who used to be a contractor 10 years ago. But DIY doesn’t always cut it when hurricanes are involved. What to do instead: Call in a professional and let us do the heavy lifting. We’ll check your roof, your soffits, your gutters, and everything in between. No stress, no obligation—just peace of mind. Final Thought: Be Proactive, Not Panicked At the end of the day, preparing for a hurricane shouldn’t feel like chaos. With a little planning—and a trusted local team by your side—you can protect your home, your family, and your sanity. Don't let these common mistakes catch you off guard. The earlier you prep, the better you sleep when that cone of uncertainty heads your way. Ready to get your home hurricane-ready? Allstate Exteriors is here to help—whether it’s a free roof inspection, storm prep guidance, or just an honest second opinion. We’re local, we’re experienced, and we genuinely care about helping Florida homeowners stay safe. Schedule your free inspection today
What Happens If You Say ‘Let Me Think About It’—and Wait 2 Years (The honest truth your future self will thank you for) We’ve all done it. You get a quote, take a deep breath, and say: “Let me think about it.” Totally fair. Replacing your roof or siding isn’t something you impulse buy like a new throw pillow. It’s your home. Your safe place. And making a big decision—especially one involving shingles, soffits, or surprise price tags—deserves a little time. But here’s the thing: When “Let me think about it” turns into two winters, three storms, and a whole lot of putting it off… what started as a simple project can slowly evolve into something a lot more complicated (and expensive). Let’s walk through what actually happens when you wait a little too long. 1. Your Roof (or Gutters or Siding) Keeps Aging… Even If You’re Not Ready Water doesn’t wait. Neither does mold. And that tiny leak you meant to “keep an eye on” while you thought things over? It might now be rotting the decking under your shingles or creeping into your attic insulation without making a sound. We’ve had customers come back to us after 18–24 months and say: “I wish I hadn’t waited… it was fine before. Now I need wood replaced too.” Delays lead to damage. And damage = more materials, more labor, more time. 2. The Price You Remember? It’s Probably Not the Price Today. Two years ago, your quote might’ve been $12K. Now? That same project—if the scope hasn’t grown—might be closer to $14K or more. Why? Because roofing materials, fuel, underlayments, labor rates, and even supply chain disruptions all shift season by season. That original quote wasn’t just for fun—it was based on real numbers at that moment in time. We do our best to keep things fair and transparent. But unfortunately, waiting almost always costs more in the long run. 3. Insurance Coverage May Not Work in Your Favor Later A lot of homeowners assume their insurance will save the day no matter what. But insurance companies are sneaky smart—and they look at how long you’ve let something sit. If that leak from 2023 turned into ceiling stains in 2025, your claim might be denied because the problem is now considered “gradual wear and tear” rather than sudden storm damage. That means you're paying for it out of pocket. No one wants that surprise. (Especially not when it’s followed by mold remediation bills.) 4. Curb Appeal Starts to Crumble (Even If You Don’t See It Yet) We all stop noticing the slow stuff: the lifted shingles, the warping siding, the gutters barely hanging on by a bracket. But guess who does notice? 👀 Your neighbors. 👀 Every guest pulling into your driveway. 👀 Potential buyers if you list your home. A lot of customers say: “I didn’t realize how bad it looked until we fixed it—and now I’m obsessed with the new roof !” There’s nothing like a fresh install to breathe new life into your home’s curb appeal. 5. You’re Not Alone (And You Don’t Have to Have All the Answers Yet) We’re not here to rush you. You deserve to feel confident and informed before jumping into a project. But if it’s been a year or two since your estimate, we encourage you to reach back out—not because we’re chasing a sale, but because you deserve to know where things stand today. We can: Rewalk your property to see if anything’s changed Update your pricing based on current costs Talk through financing or phased options Help you feel in control again Because your roof doesn’t need to be a stressor. It can be one of the smartest, most empowering decisions you make for your home and your peace of mind. 💬 Final Thoughts from Team Allstate You don’t have to feel bad for waiting. Life gets busy. Projects get pushed. But if your “think about it” moment is turning into year two (or more), let’s reconnect and revisit your options—before Mother Nature sends a not-so-gentle reminder through your ceiling. Click here for a free estimate!
Why Orlando Homeowners Trust Allstate Exteriors Professional. Local. Dependable. When you live in Orlando , your home is constantly exposed to a mix of blazing sun, heavy rains, and the occasional tropical storm. It’s not just about making your house look great—it’s about protecting what matters most. That’s where we come in. At Allstate Exteriors, we help Orlando homeowners take care of their homes with high-quality roofing, siding, and gutter solutions built to handle Florida’s climate. We’re a family-owned company with deep roots, high standards, and a strong belief in doing things the right way—every time. Here’s why so many of your neighbors choose to work with us (and why we’d love the chance to work with you, too). We Understand What Florida Homes Really Need Let’s be honest—Florida is beautiful, but the weather can be brutal on your home. The materials you choose (and the team who installs them) matter. At Allstate Exteriors, we know what works here and what doesn’t. We help homeowners choose products that: Stand up to strong winds and heavy rain Resist UV damage from constant sunshine Hold their color and curb appeal longer Keep your home cooler and more energy-efficient Because we’re local, we don’t just install and walk away—we’re here long after the project is done. You’ll Always Be Treated Like a Neighbor (Because You Are) As a family-owned company, we take pride in treating our customers the way we’d want to be treated—honestly, respectfully, and with clear communication every step of the way. From your very first call to the final walkthrough, we focus on: Quick, courteous responses to your questions Clear timelines and expectations Respect for your time, your home, and your family Professional crews who leave the job site clean and safe No pressure. No surprises. Just good people doing great work. Trusted Credentials. Proven Results. We’re proud to be an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, a status held by only a small percentage of roofing companies nationwide. That means: We meet rigorous training and installation standards We can offer exclusive extended warranties on materials and labor You get peace of mind that the job will be done right the first time We don’t cut corners, and we don’t believe in “good enough.” Our goal is excellence—from start to finish. What Our Customers Are Saying We’re grateful that so many Orlando homeowners take the time to leave us kind words after a job well done. Here’s just a few things our customers have said: “Knowledgeable team, very professional, they’ll work hard to find any storm damage if it’s there, they help you pick the right colors, and get you financed. Highly recommend !” “Very professional presentation with all relevant facts, answered all my questions. Showed important steps in roofing process, felt well informed at end.” “Allstate Exteriors is an outstanding roofing company. They are an Owens Corning platinum preferred contractor. I will be referring them to my neighbors.” Reviews like these mean the world to us—and we work hard every day to earn them. A Little Extra Heart in Everything We Do Yes, we take our work seriously—but we also love what we do. And that shows in the little things: a thoughtful thank-you card after a project, a post-install check-in call, or a helpful update text to keep you in the loop. And if you happen to meet our company mascot, Joe Bob Cat, along the way… well, let’s just say he’s got a real talent for making job sites a little more fun. 🐾 Schedule A Free, No-Pressure Estimate Let’s protect your home the right way—with care, craftsmanship, and a company you can count on.
Why We Ask to Meet With All Homeowners at the Estimate It’s not just a formality—it’s how we make sure you feel confident every step of the way. Let’s be honest—your home is probably the biggest investment you’ll ever make. And when it comes to protecting it with a new roof, updated siding, or new gutters, you deserve more than a quick visit or a guess-timate thrown together over the phone. That’s why, at Allstate Exteriors, we kindly ask that all homeowners (or decision-makers) be present during the estimate appointment. We promise—it’s not to make your life harder. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Here’s why face-to-face time matters so much (and how it actually protects your time, your money, and your peace of mind). Clear Communication = Better Decisions We’ve seen it happen: one person attends the estimate, takes a few notes, and then tries to relay everything to their spouse or co-owner later… only to end up with more questions than answers. And who could blame them? When both (or all) homeowners are there from the start, you hear the same information, at the same time, with the same level of detail—straight from our expert team. No guessing. No secondhand explanations. No mixed messages. We Want to Hear What Matters Most to You Every home—and every homeowner—is different. Some are focused on curb appeal. Others want the longest-lasting product. Some are working within a tight budget. Others are planning to sell soon and want the best return on investment. When we get to meet with both decision-makers, we’re better able to listen, understand your priorities, and make personalized recommendations that check all the right boxes. It’s a chance for us to be honest, helpful, and human—and that’s how we build trust. Avoiding the “I’ll Have to Ask My Spouse” Loop We totally get it—life is busy. But when only one person is present, it often leads to a lot of back-and-forth: “Let me double-check with my spouse.” “Can you send this over in an email for them?” “We’ll need to set up another appointment to review everything together.” And just like that, the process that could’ve taken one simple meeting now takes three. We want to respect your time and keep things simple—meeting with everyone involved upfront is the best way to do that. We Can Show, Not Just Tell When you’re physically at the home during the appointment, we can point things out in real time—damaged shingles, poor ventilation, rotted soffits, or storm damage you didn’t even know was there. We can lay out sample materials, explain the differences, and walk you through the options that fit your goals. Having all homeowners present means you all get to see the “why” behind our recommendations—not just the price tag. You Deserve to Feel Confident—Together This isn’t just another transaction for us. It’s a relationship. And we believe every homeowner deserves to feel educated, empowered, and at ease about the decisions being made for their home. So when we ask to meet with all homeowners at the estimate, it’s not a “requirement.” It’s a reflection of how seriously we take our responsibility to serve you well. Ready to schedule your free estimate? Book Now or call us anytime—we’re here to help.
Roofing Myths That Are Quietly Costing You Money (And What You Should Know Before It Gets Expensive) Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. 🏠 Over the years, we’ve heard all kinds of myths that homeowners believe about their roofs—some of them sound harmless, but they could be silently draining your wallet and putting your home at risk. At Allstate Exteriors, we believe in honest, straightforward advice that helps you protect your home and your peace of mind. So, let’s bust a few of the most common roofing myths—once and for all. Myth # 1 : “If it’s not leaking, it must be fine.” This one gets people into trouble all the time. Just because you don’t see a leak today doesn’t mean your roof isn’t in trouble. Tiny cracks, lifted shingles, or failing flashing can allow water to sneak in—and by the time you notice a brown spot on the ceiling, there could already be mold, wood rot, or structural damage. 💡 The Truth: Early warning signs often go unnoticed from the ground. Regular inspections help you catch issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Myth #2: “I’ll just keep patching it.” It’s tempting to throw on a quick fix when something goes wrong. But if you find yourself calling for repairs every season… those patch jobs might be adding up to more than the cost of a full replacement. And worse? You’re still left with an old roof that isn’t protecting your home the way it should. 💡 The Truth: Sometimes a new roof is the smarter, longer-lasting investment—especially if you want better energy efficiency, curb appeal, and resale value. Myth #3: “All shingles are basically the same.” Nope. Not even close. Cheap shingles may look okay at first, but they don’t hold up to storms, heat, or high winds like quality products do. That can lead to faster wear, more frequent repairs , and lower energy efficiency for your home. 💡 The Truth: Premium shingles—like Owens Corning Duration® with SureNail® Technology—are engineered to stand up to real-world weather (not just look good in photos). We only install shingles we’d trust on our own homes. Myth #4: “My warranty will cover anything that goes wrong.” We hate to break it to you, but not always. A lot of warranties come with fine print. If your roof wasn’t installed properly—or doesn’t meet the manufacturer’s ventilation and pitch specs—you could unknowingly void your coverage. 💡 The Truth: A great warranty starts with proper installation. That’s why it’s important to work with a certified contractor (like us 😉) who understands the specs inside and out. Myth #5: “I can probably DIY the repair and save some money.” Unless you’ve got pro-level experience, specialized tools, and a strong sense of balance... we strongly advise against it. Roofing is dangerous work, and even small installation errors can lead to big problems later on. Plus, one wrong step can cause serious injury—or damage your roof even more. 💡 The Truth: Hiring a pro may cost a little more upfront, but it can save you thousands in future repairs—and a whole lot of stress. Myth #6: “That stain, sag, or moss? It’s just cosmetic.” We get it—it’s easy to brush off little things as "no big deal.” But when it comes to your roof, those small signs could be red flags. A sagging spot might mean waterlogged decking. Moss might be trapping moisture. And discoloration could be a hint that your shingles are wearing out. 💡 The Truth: What looks minor now can turn into a major headache later. A quick checkup from our team could save you time, money, and future frustration. Don’t Let These Roofing Myths Drain Your Wallet At the end of the day, your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Letting myths steer your decisions could leave you with expensive repairs, premature replacements, or a false sense of security. At Allstate Exteriors, we believe in educating our customers—not upselling them. Whether you’re dealing with a leak, unsure about your roof’s age, or just want a second opinion, we’re here to help. Family-owned. Platinum Preferred Contractor. 1000s of 5-star reviews. Schedule Your Free Estimate Now!
Let’s be real: hiring a roofer in Florida can feel a little overwhelming. Between hurricane season, constant humidity, salty air, and unpredictable storms—your roof does a lot of heavy lifting. And when it’s time for repairs or a full replacement, you need someone who won’t just show up—but will actually do the job right. Unfortunately, not every roofer out there has your best interest in mind. Florida sees its fair share of fast-talking “contractors” who chase storms, cut corners, and leave homeowners high and dry. At Allstate Exteriors, we’re proud to be a licensed, local, and family-owned company—and we believe every homeowner should feel confident in who they hire. So here’s your friendly, no-fluff guide to vetting a Florida roofer without getting burned. 1. Start With the Basics: License, Insurance, and Location If a contractor isn’t licensed and insured in the state of Florida, stop right there. Roofing in the Sunshine State isn’t like roofing in Ohio—there are building codes, wind zone requirements, and coastal challenges that only true local pros understand. Ask for: A valid Florida roofing license Proof of general liability & workers’ comp insurance A physical business location (not just a truck and a phone number) Tip: You can double-check a roofer’s license status at myfloridalicense.com. It only takes a minute—and could save you months of regret. 2. Local Experience Matters (Not Just “Years in Business”) Sure, someone might say they’ve been roofing for 20+ years—but how long have they been doing it in Florida’s climate? Big difference. A true Florida roofer knows: How salt air can corrode fasteners and flashing Why proper attic ventilation is non-negotiable in this heat Which materials hold up best during storm season 📸 Look for actual job photos, not just stock images. Ask about nearby projects. And don’t be afraid to request references from real Florida homeowners. 3. Understand Their Warranties (and Get It in Writing) If a contractor says “we guarantee our work,” ask them to show you the paperwork. ✅ Do they back both the materials and labor? ✅ Is it a 1-year quick fix or a long-term protection plan? ✅ What happens if something goes wrong down the road? Better yet, choose a roofer with manufacturer certifications (like Owens Corning Platinum Preferred status) that offer extended, transferable warranties. That’s peace of mind you can put on paper. 4. Check the Reviews—but Read Between the Lines Google and Facebook are great places to start, but don’t just look at the star rating. Read what people actually say. Do they mention: Good communication? Punctual crews who clean up after themselves? The company standing behind its work, even months later? Look for consistency in feedback—and how the company responds to any concerns. A roofer that listens, learns, and follows through? That’s the one. 5. Notice How They Talk to You This one’s huge. A solid contractor won’t rush you, confuse you with jargon, or pressure you into signing something "today only." They’ll take time to walk you through materials, pricing, and process—without the games. 🚫 Red flags: Vague answers or pushback when you ask questions High-pressure sales tactics “We’ll get started once you pay in full…” ✅ Green flags: Clear timelines Transparent estimates Friendly, patient conversations 6. Be Smart About Payments A small deposit is totally normal—especially when special materials are being ordered. But a contractor asking for full payment upfront? That’s a no-go. Best practices: Use a check or credit card (not cash) Don’t pay in full until the job is complete and you’re satisfied Make sure your payment schedule is outlined in writing If they avoid written contracts or try to “keep it simple” by skipping paperwork—run the other way. 7. Choose a Roofer Who Treats Your Home Like Their Own At the end of the day, your roof is protecting everything you love. Don’t trust just anyone to care for it. At Allstate Exteriors, we: Are fully licensed & insured in Florida Use local crews, never mystery subcontractors Show up on time, clean up after ourselves, and communicate every step of the way Treat your home with the same care we’d treat our own We believe in doing the right thing—even when no one’s looking. Ready for a second opinion or just getting started? We offer free, no-pressure estimates—with flexible scheduling and real people who care. Whether you're in Cape Coral, Orlando, or anywhere in between, we’re here to help. Call us today or schedule online