When it comes to protecting your home in Asheville, NC, few components matter as much as your roof. And if you own a steep roof, the risks—and the stakes—are even higher. Homeowners are often tempted to hire a “cheap roofer” to save money, but when steep slope roofing is involved, cutting corners can cost you far more in the long run.
In this article, we’ll break down the real costs, risks, and safety issues associated with hiring unqualified or low-cost roofers in Asheville. Using government data, industry statistics, and real homeowner experiences, we’ll show you why investing in a reputable roofing company like Litespeed Construction is the smart—and safe—choice.
Key Takeaways
💡Cheap roofers often lack training, insurance, and safety protocols.
💡Government data from OSHA shows roofing is one of the most hazardous jobs in America.
💡Hiring a reputable roofing company ensures compliance with safety standards.
💡Hiring a cheap roofer can lead to costly repairs, liability issues, and insurance claim denials.
Understanding the Risks of a Steep Roof
A steep roof—defined by OSHA as a roof with a slope greater than 4:12—presents unique challenges compared to low-slope roofing. These challenges include:
- Increased fall hazards: Roofers are far more likely to suffer serious injury on a steep slope.
- Specialized equipment needs: Harnesses, roof jacks, scaffolding, and toe boards are required by OSHA for safety.
- Higher material installation difficulty: Shingles, metal panels, or tiles must be installed with precision to prevent slippage and water intrusion.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls accounted for 378 out of 986 total construction deaths in 2021, making up 38% of all construction fatalities (OSHA.gov). Roofing consistently ranks as one of the top 10 most dangerous professions in the United States.
When hiring a cheap roofer who may not follow OSHA guidelines, homeowners unknowingly expose themselves to liability if an accident occurs on their property.
Why Homeowners Hire Cheap Roofers in Asheville
Asheville is a growing city with a diverse housing market, and homeowners often seek the most affordable roofing option. Common reasons people consider cheap roofers include:
- Lower upfront cost compared to licensed, insured contractors.
- Lack of knowledge about the risks of steep roof work.
- Misleading advertising from unlicensed contractors promising “fast and cheap repairs.”
- Urgency after storm damage, when homeowners feel pressured to act quickly.
However, the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors warns that unlicensed roofers cannot legally perform work over $40,000 in value, and working with unlicensed contractors may leave homeowners without legal recourse (NC.gov).
The Real Cost of Hiring a Cheap Roofer
While the low bid may seem attractive, the long-term financial risks are significant:
| Category | Cheap Roofer Risk | Litespeed Construction Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | May skip OSHA-required fall protection on steep roofs | Certified crews follow strict OSHA compliance |
| Insurance | Many lack liability or workers’ comp insurance | Full coverage protects homeowners from liability |
| Materials | Cheaper, lower-grade shingles or underlayment | Premium materials with manufacturer warranties |
| Durability | Roof may fail within 5–7 years | Roof designed to last 20–30+ years |
| Warranty | Often nonexistent or verbal promises only | Written warranties backed by manufacturer |
| Cost | Low upfront, high repair costs later | Fair pricing with long-term savings |
A study from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) found that poorly installed roofing is one of the leading causes of premature housing system failures, often requiring replacement well before its expected lifespan.
Safety Standards: Why They Matter on a Steep Roof
The OSHA Fall Protection Standard (29 CFR 1926.501) requires that workers on steep roofs must be protected by:
- Guardrail systems
- Safety net systems
- Personal fall arrest systems (PFAS)
Cheap roofers often skip these steps to cut costs, which puts both workers and homeowners at risk. If an accident happens, homeowners can face lawsuits—even if they didn’t know the roofer was unlicensed.
Hiring a trusted company like Litespeed Construction ensures that every steep roof project is handled with industry-standard safety precautions.
Litespeed Construction: A Trusted Roofing Partner in Asheville
Litespeed Construction has built a reputation in Asheville for:
- Expertise in steep roof projects (shingles, metal, and specialty materials).
- Licensed and insured teams who comply with all state and federal regulations.
- Decades of combined experience in roofing throughout Western North Carolina.
- Transparent pricing and detailed contracts—no hidden costs.
- Excellent customer reviews and referrals from satisfied homeowners.
Unlike “cheap roofers,” Litespeed offers homeowners peace of mind, safety, and long-term value.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Cheap Roofer for a Steep Roof
Pros
- Lower upfront cost
- Faster turnaround (sometimes)
- Easy to find
Cons
- Higher risk of injury and liability
- Poor workmanship and premature roof failure
- No warranty or weak warranty protections
- Can void homeowners insurance claims
- May use unskilled labor and cheap materials
FAQs about Steep Roofs
OSHA defines a steep roof as any roof with a slope greater than 4:12 (4 inches of rise for every 12 inches of run).
Yes. Steep slope roofing requires more safety equipment and specialized installation
Yes. If the roofer is uninsured or unlicensed, the homeowner can face lawsuits and medical costs.
On average, $8,000–$18,000 depending on size, pitch, and materials used (data: HUD & local averages).
With proper installation, asphalt shingles can last 20–30 years, and metal roofs 40–70 years.
Yes, but improper installation or unlicensed work can void claims.
They cut corners by skipping insurance, safety, and using cheaper materials.
Harnesses, anchors, ropes, roof jacks, and OSHA-compliant fall protection.
Yes. The City of Asheville requires building permits for roof replacements.
Look for licensing, insurance, OSHA compliance, references, and strong reviews—like those of Litespeed Construction.
Don’t Gamble with a Cheap Roofer on Your Steep Roof
When it comes to a steep roof, the risks of hiring a cheap roofer in Asheville far outweigh the savings. Government data confirms that roofing is one of the most dangerous trades in America, and unlicensed or uninsured contractors put your home, finances, and family at risk. By cutting corners on safety, materials, and workmanship, a “low-cost” roofer can turn into a high-cost disaster.
Instead, choose Litespeed Construction—a trusted Asheville roofing company that combines expertise, safety, and long-lasting results. Our licensed, insured professionals specialize in steep roof installations and repairs, ensuring your home is protected for decades, not just a few seasons.
👉 Don’t wait until a cheap repair costs you thousands more. Call Litespeed Construction today for a free roof inspection in Asheville and get the peace of mind you deserve.
