Can You Install Felt Shingles Yourself or Should You Hire a Professional?

Felt shingles are a popular choice for many homeowners when it comes to roofing. They are affordable, lightweight and suitable for sheds, garages and even some home roofs. But the big question many people ask is whether they can install felt shingles on their own or if it's better to hire a professional roofer. This article explores both options, covering important details to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.

Choosing to do the work yourself can save money and give you a sense of achievement. However, roofing involves more than simply laying down materials. It also includes careful planning, safety precautions and proper tools. On the other hand, hiring a professional can cost more, but it usually means the job will be done right the first time with fewer risks involved.

Before you decide, it's important to understand what each option involves. In the following sections, we will look at the main things to consider before starting a DIY project, what a professional can offer, the risks of doing it wrong and how to choose the best path for your project.

What to Know Before Attempting a DIY Felt Shingle Installation

Installing felt shingles yourself might seem like a good way to save money. But before you climb up that ladder, there are some important points to think about. Preparation, safety and knowing your limits all play a part in how well the job will go.

Understand the Job’s Full Scope

It’s easy to underestimate how much work is involved in installing felt shingles. First, you’ll need to remove the old roof covering if there is one. Then, you’ll need to make sure the roof boards underneath are dry and in good condition. Measuring, cutting and fitting each shingle takes time and care, especially to avoid leaks or uneven layers.

You also have to factor in the weather. Roofing should never be done in wet or windy conditions. This might delay your progress or even put you in danger if you're not careful. Planning ahead and giving yourself plenty of time is very important.

Safety Must Come First

Roofing is one of the more dangerous DIY jobs. Even working on a shed or garage carries a risk of falling. You’ll need a sturdy ladder, proper shoes and maybe even safety harnesses depending on the height. Never try to rush or skip safety steps just to finish faster.

It’s also important to keep others, especially children and pets, away from the work area while you're roofing. Dropped tools or shingles could cause injury. Always make safety your top concern.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

You’ll need more than just felt shingles. Basic tools include a hammer or roofing nails, a utility knife, roofing adhesive, measuring tape and a straight edge. You may also need underlay felt and timber battens depending on your roof design. Make sure you buy quality materials to help the roof last longer.

Before you start, check that you have everything you need. Running out of materials or using the wrong type of adhesive could leave parts of your roof exposed to the weather.

Check for Building Rules

Most small roofing jobs on sheds or garages do not need approval. But if you're working on your home roof or a larger structure, it’s best to check with your local council. In some areas, rules about materials or height may apply. You might also need to follow specific rules if your house is in a protected area or is listed.

Doing the work without checking these rules can lead to fines or having to remove the work later. Always check first to avoid costly mistakes.

How a Professional Roofer Can Add Value

Hiring a professional roofer has many benefits. They bring skill, experience and tools that the average person may not have. A trained roofer can finish the job faster and with better results, reducing the chance of future problems.

Professionals know how to spot and fix hidden issues such as damaged roof boards or poor ventilation. These are things you might miss during a DIY job. Catching them early can stop bigger repairs later on.

Most roofers also offer guarantees on their work. This means if something goes wrong after the job is done, they’ll come back and fix it. That kind of peace of mind is often worth the extra cost. In some cases, a professional job can even increase your home’s value by improving its appearance and reducing future maintenance needs.

Finally, professional roofers have insurance, which means you’re protected if anything goes wrong during the job. If a tile falls and breaks a window or someone gets hurt, you won’t be held responsible. That alone can save a lot of stress and money.

Risks of a Poor DIY Installation and What It Could Cost You

While doing the work yourself can save money upfront, a bad installation can lead to big problems later. The most common issue is leaks. If felt shingles are not laid out correctly or not nailed properly, water can seep through and damage the wood underneath. This can cause rot, mould and even structural issues over time.

Leaks might not show straight away. You may only notice when paint peels, damp patches appear or your heating bills go up due to poor insulation. Fixing these problems can cost far more than the amount saved by doing it yourself.

There’s also a risk of voiding any existing insurance or home cover. If a claim shows the damage was due to poor workmanship, your insurer may refuse to pay. This could leave you to cover the full cost of repairs.

Finally, poor roofing can affect the look and value of your home. A roof that doesn’t line up properly, has uneven shingles or is visibly sagging can put off potential buyers if you plan to sell in the future.

How to Decide What’s Best for Your Budget and Project

Before starting your project, it’s good to weigh up all the options. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your choice will depend on your budget, the size of your project and how confident you are with tools and heights.

Think About the Size and Use of the Roof

If you’re working on a small shed or garden building, DIY might make sense. These roofs are usually lower and easier to access, and mistakes will be less costly. For larger buildings like a house or garage, a professional is often the safer and smarter choice.

Also, consider how often the roof will be seen or used. A storage shed at the back of your garden might not need perfect lines. But a roof on your home or a garden office will be more visible and may need to look tidy and neat.

Compare Costs and Long-Term Value

DIY may cost less at the start, especially if you already have some tools. But add up the full cost including materials, time and safety gear. Compare that to quotes from local roofers. A professional job might be more expensive now but could last longer and save money in the long run.

Remember to check what each roofer includes in their quote. Some may cover repairs or offer a guarantee, which adds value to the service.

Know Your Own Limits

Being honest about your skills and time is key. If you’re not comfortable working at height or unsure how to install the shingles properly, it’s best to leave it to the experts. There’s no shame in getting help, especially when safety is involved.

Even if you don’t do the whole job yourself, you might still be able to save money by helping with some parts, like removing old shingles or clearing rubbish. Ask your roofer if this is possible.