Make Sure to Do These First Before Replacing Your Roof

As a homeowner, it can be daunting to plan out a proper roof replacement. There are a lot of factors to consider, such as choosing the right material and whether your budget can cover all the expenses. But to ensure your project gets completed successfully, you need to work with the right roof repair and replacement contractor who can guide you throughout the whole process. And whether you’re planning to renovate your roof or have it fully replaced, you can’t just start the project after the contract has been signed. 

What You Should Expect

There are several things you need to prepare before construction begins, such as ensuring that the noise is kept to a minimum. All that banging, sawing, and hammering can disrupt your daily routine, especially if you’re working at home. It helps to plan and consider staying at a different place at least during the day to avoid the noise from distracting you. 

Staying at a motel or a family friend’s home isn’t necessary depending on the type of roofing project you have, as you can expect most projects to last for only a few days. But whether or not you’re able to tolerate the noise and commotion, make sure to inform your neighbors about your upcoming roofing project. Telling them in advance will make them more understanding of why they’re hearing the noise within their neighborhood. You’ll also avoid being confronted by angry neighbors about the noise from your project!

While you can’t avoid the noise that comes with the construction, you can still prepare your home for other factors that will happen during your project. Top roof repair and replacement specialist Shine Construction Inc. has put together a list of what you should prepare and expect before construction begins:

Dust and Debris

In most roofing projects, dust and debris will come from removing the old materials. It’s usually part of the package to have trucks come to your home and catch the debris as close to the roofline as possible to minimize the chance of them falling into the yard. However, you still need to take precautions because there will always be some that can fall through the ventilation system or other ceiling openings underneath your roof. If your family member has allergies or asthma, make sure that they either stay away from the site during construction. They can also wear masks to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

Children

During your roof replacement project, your home turns into a temporary construction site. If you have children, the equipment and commotion during the renovation process can stimulate their curiosity. For instance, if you have a cover over your pool to prevent dust and debris from falling into it, it can still be a hazard to children running around and playing in your yard. Make it a priority to safeguard your child’s safety and closely supervise them so that they won’t come near the site while they’re working. Also, be on the lookout for possible hazards as well such as nails, screws, flashing and other work-related materials and equipment. 

Pets

Your pets may either get excited about the commotion and presence of unfamiliar people who are working on your roofing project or find it unpleasant and disruptive because of the noise. If you think that your pet can become anxious and have difficulty adjusting during the roofing process, it may be wise to have them stay in another home they’re familiar with. They can stay with a friend or neighbor in their place until the project’s completion.

Landscaping, Vehicles and Outdoor Furniture

You can expect your roof replacement to affect your landscaping, so take steps to protect them from dust and debris during the renovation process. Of course, most professional contractors will be aware of this as well and will cover your plants, spas, hot tubs and swimming pools with a tarp before they start replacing your roof. They’ll also put in other measures to protect your garden and outdoor water features and prevent damage throughout the renovation process.

Even with your outdoor furniture, water features and landscaping fully protected from the roofing construction, you can still expect small amounts of debris like sawdust to make their way through. This is more likely to happen during windy days, so make sure to turn off your pumps during the renovation process. You should also park your vehicles, trailers or boats away from your home (i.e. on the street or the other side of the road) to prevent scratches and dents from falling debris.

The lawn near and around your roof can also get affected by workers constantly walking back and forth. To preserve your lawn, we suggest turning off your sprinklers about a day before the workers come to your home and start the roofing installation. It also helps to mow the lawn before it starts so that the workers can clean up the materials and debris more quickly after your roof has been installed. If you have any nearby trees with overhanging branches, have them pruned so that they won’t obstruct the construction and keep your new roof intact. 

Home Access

Your attic, garage and driveway will be occupied by your hired roofing contractor throughout the renovation process, so be sure to give them full access to these areas. One side of your driveway should be cleared as well to make room for the collection of your roofing materials. Leave your gates unlocked and give full access to your yard so that they can properly clean up after its completion.

Electrical Wiring and Outlets

Your hired contractor will use several power tools and air compressors during the roofing construction process. They’ll be using your electrical outlets, so make sure that they’re easily accessible. They’ll most likely use the garage circuits as well, so make sure to add precautions to prevent overloading with sustained electrical devices. This is important especially if your garage shares the same circuit with other areas within your home to avoid unwanted damage to your appliances and other electrical equipment.

When planning a replacement project, it helps to work with an experienced and reputable roofing contractor that you can rely on. Call Shine Construction Inc. today at (508) 278-3300 or through our convenient contact form online!