Indiana homeowners are no strangers to unpredictable weather. From spring hailstorms in Whitestown to winter ice buildup in Lebanon, our roofs take a beating year-round. So it’s no surprise that when shingles go missing or a leak appears, many homeowners consider handling the repair themselves.
At Kavlan Contracting, we respect the DIY spirit. Fixing things around the house is rewarding, and there are certain roofing-related tasks that a confident homeowner can take on. But there’s a line—crossing it can risk injury, void warranties, or create bigger (and costlier) problems down the road.
This guide will help you understand what roof-related tasks are safe for homeowners to tackle and which ones are better left to professionals—especially in a region like central Indiana, where weather, roof pitch, and home age all factor into safety and success.
When DIY Can Make Sense
There are a few roof maintenance and minor repair jobs that a safety-conscious homeowner can reasonably attempt, assuming they have a stable ladder, proper footwear, and aren’t dealing with steep slopes or multi-story homes. Here are the most common DIY-appropriate tasks we see among homeowners in Brownsburg, Zionsville, and surrounding towns.
Gutter Cleaning and Downspout Checks
Clogged gutters are one of the most common causes of roof leaks around the eaves and fascia. When water can’t flow properly, it backs up under the shingles and seeps into the decking. Cleaning out your gutters a few times a year—especially after the leaves drop in the fall—is an important part of roof maintenance.
You don’t need roofing expertise to clear out leaves and debris or flush out a clogged downspout with a garden hose. Just make sure to work with a partner and use a sturdy ladder on level ground. If your gutters are more than one story up, it’s best to call in help.
Visual Roof Inspections (From the Ground or Attic)
You don’t need to climb on your roof to spot obvious signs of trouble. Walk around your home and use binoculars to check for missing or curling shingles, algae streaks, or rusted flashing. Inside your attic, look for signs of daylight coming through the roof decking or evidence of water staining along rafters or insulation.
Catching a problem early often means the difference between a simple repair and major structural damage. That’s especially important in areas like Lebanon and Whitestown, where older homes may have been through multiple storms and roofing cycles.
Replacing a Single Shingle (With Caution)
If you find a single missing or damaged shingle near the edge of your roof, and the pitch is shallow enough to walk safely, you may be able to replace it. Asphalt shingles can be pried up and replaced if you have a matching replacement and know how to properly nail and seal it.
However, be warned: shingles can be brittle in cold weather, and walking on a roof without proper safety gear is dangerous. If you’re unsure at all, call in a professional. One wrong step can lead to an injury—or damage your roof even more.
Where DIY Can Go Wrong
While some minor roof upkeep is within reach, too many homeowners bite off more than they can chew. At Kavlan Contracting, we’ve been called to fix well-intentioned DIY jobs gone sideways—torn-up underlayment, improperly installed shingles, caulk used in the wrong places, and even new leaks that didn’t exist before.
Here are some of the most common examples of repairs homeowners should avoid tackling themselves.
Leak Repairs Around Flashing or Roof Penetrations
If your roof is leaking around a chimney, skylight, vent pipe, or wall intersection, flashing is likely the culprit. These areas require precise materials, layering, and sealing techniques. Applying roofing cement or caulk over a leak might stop water for a day or two, but it rarely solves the root problem.
We’ve seen plenty of homes in Zionsville and Brownsburg where DIY flashing “patches” led to hidden rot or attic mold. Flashing repair is not something to learn on the fly. It’s one of the most technical parts of roofing and should always be handled by a qualified contractor.
Full or Partial Roof Replacement
It might be tempting to think you can tear off a few rows of shingles and re-nail them yourself, especially if you've done other handyman work. But roof replacement is about more than just putting down new shingles. There are ventilation considerations, code requirements, proper nailing patterns, and water barrier systems to install. Without the right tools and experience, even the most enthusiastic DIYer will likely miss something important.
We’ve replaced roofs in Lebanon and Whitestown where a homeowner or unlicensed handyman tried to re-roof just a small section and ended up compromising the entire system. If your roof has widespread damage or is more than 15 years old, it’s time to bring in a pro.
Climbing on a Steep or Multi-Story Roof
Safety should always be your first concern. Climbing onto a steep or wet roof without a harness, fall protection, and the right shoes is extremely risky. The risk is even higher on older homes around Lebanon or Zionsville, where roof slopes may be sharper or less stable.
Professional roofers are trained and insured to work at height. No minor repair is worth the cost of a hospital visit—or worse.
Using the Wrong Materials
Hardware stores carry roofing sealants, shingles, and underlayment, but buying the right materials isn’t as simple as it sounds. Using mismatched shingles can void your warranty. Choosing a caulk that doesn’t flex with temperature changes can actually make a leak worse.
At Kavlan Contracting, we’ve fixed “repairs” where the homeowner used metal flashing tape meant for HVAC systems instead of proper step flashing. Roofing requires specific materials that are designed to work together as part of a system. Anything less creates a weak point in your home’s defense.
DIY vs. Professional: Know Where to Draw the Line
There’s a difference between being resourceful and taking on work that should be left to trained professionals. In central Indiana, our homes face seasonal extremes—humid summers, freeze-thaw cycles, hail, and high winds. Your roof isn’t just a cosmetic feature. It’s your first line of defense, and its performance depends on how well every component is installed and maintained.
If you’re a homeowner in Brownsburg, Zionsville, Lebanon, or Whitestown, and you notice signs of roof damage, here’s a simple rule of thumb: if the repair involves anything more than a visual check or a basic cleanup, call a roofing expert. An experienced contractor can assess the full scope of the issue, recommend long-lasting solutions, and complete the work safely and to code.
How Kavlan Contracting Helps Homeowners Make Smart Roofing Decisions
We don’t just fix roofs—we help homeowners protect their property and avoid bigger issues down the road. When you call Kavlan Contracting for a roof inspection or repair, here’s what you can expect:
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A thorough inspection of the entire roofing system, including decking, shingles, flashing, and ventilation.
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Clear, honest recommendations. We’ll let you know if a minor repair is all that’s needed—or if a more comprehensive solution will save you money in the long run.
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No high-pressure sales. Just straight answers and workmanship you can trust.
We’ve worked on homes across Lebanon, Zionsville, Whitestown, and Brownsburg. Whether it’s storm damage, roof aging, or poor workmanship from a previous contractor, we’ve seen it all—and we know how to fix it the right way.
Final Thoughts
There’s no shame in wanting to handle simple home repairs yourself. But when it comes to your roof, a cautious approach is the smart choice. Minor upkeep like gutter cleaning and visual inspections are safe, helpful DIY tasks. But once you move into repairs that involve climbing, sealing, or removing materials, the risks increase quickly.
If you think your roof might need attention, trust the professionals at Kavlan Contracting to give you honest answers and reliable service. Your roof protects your home, your family, and your future. Let’s make sure it’s done right.
Need a second opinion on a DIY repair? Or just want a professional inspection to be sure? Contact Kavlan Contracting today. We’re proud to serve homeowners throughout central Indiana—and we’re just a phone call away.
