Roofs and Soffit

never need to deal with…. since, IN YOUR MIND, you have already resigned to turn that over to the professionals…For bigger jobs this can certainly be appealing and perhaps the right decision. A good roofing service will have conscientious help, good and safe equipment, do good work quickly and charge fairly… and stand behind their work.

On the other hand, fly by night crews are abundant, especially following hail and storm damage….  buyer beware!

Roof related projects are certainly doable. There’s a wide range of needs from small to extensive but generally there is a bit more physical work involved, plus you are off the ground. One story  is not too big of a deal, 2 stories plus gets more involved.

Framing was really my first roof-work exposure and often on two story houses in the winter months. Again, those were days long before the wide range of lifts available today. A lot of work and you had better not be afraid of heights. Nailing plywood was 8 penny CC sinkers by hammer. One swing per nail with nails every 8 inches & you get a lot of practice! — by the way – frosty roofs are a no-no!!!!

My first shingling encounter was for a brother who had a duplex. I was clueless and proceeded alone by following the instructions on the shingle wrapper.

I got the job done before realizing those little paper-like strips on the back of each shingle did not have to be removed! 29 square… (87 bundles, & in case you’ve never lifted one — they are HEAVY!!), one bundle at a time up the ladder, 4 individual shingle nails per shingle, by hammer…… That’ll never happen again!

Things have improved in terms of equipment. (The shingles are just as heavy!)

If you choose to tackle roof projects, I encourage an assistant to steady the ladder and just to minimize any up and down for tools etc.…. A Safety rope across the roof if the slope is steeper is a good idea.

Have good ladders, ladder jacks, platforms, etc.! Renting a lift can be a really good investment if you have appropriate access!

This goes for any soffit work you may take on as well

Roof projects can pay big dividends by simply using good judgment and choosing to not push your limits. Know when to get some help.

I’ll had a load of hot summertime shingles coming to our 2-story house! My expected help did not show up. I chose to proceed and by the time we were done, I was as close to a heart attack as I’ve ever been.

So, whether it’s snow in the winter, a leak in spring, or summer shingling……

Take Your Time and Be Safe!!!!!