Families typically don’t look forward to having a new roof installed. While they will appreciate having a roof that looks and functions like new, the sounds that come with this project and the other interruptions to daily life can be distracting. Furthermore, the family must prepare the home for a roof replacement to ensure problems don’t arise. What steps should be taken before this process begins?
Remove Wall Decor
Remove all wall decorations before the team arrives to begin installing a new roof. Vibrations may cause the decorations to fall as the roof is being replaced. If time is limited, focus on removing wall decorations on the top floors of the home.
Move Vehicles Away From the Home
Move all vehicles away from the home to give the roofers plenty of space to work. They need their vehicles near the house to unload items and dispose of debris. The closer they are to the home, the less time they will need to unload their tools, shingles, and other items. In addition, moving the car away from the home reduces the risk of accidental scratches and damage.
Make Arrangements for Pets and Children
Pets and young children may not appreciate strangers walking around the property, and the noise the strangers make can also disturb them. Try to make arrangements for them to visit a friend or family member. If this isn’t possible, consider having items that will make noise to distract them from the sounds being made by the roofing team.
Move Items Off Porches and Patios
Store patio furniture and other outdoor items during the roof replacement project. Items that should be moved include kids’ toys, planters, grills, and lawn ornaments, which may be damaged as the roofers do their work. If there is no place to store these items, move them away from the home to a different part of the yard.
Fragile Items in the Attic
A family may have fragile items stored in the attic. As the roofers walk on the roof, hit it with a hammer, and use other tools, debris and dust might fall into this part of the home. Cover all personal belongings and add an additional layer of protection for fragile items in the attic. Doing so will help keep them from harm while allowing the roofers to do their job.
Prune Trees
Tree branches hanging over the home can interfere with the roofers’ work. Prune these branches before they arrive so they can finish their work quickly and easily. Also, cut the grass before they arrive so they can remove any debris and nails once the project is complete.
Remove Antennas and Other Items on the Roof
Many homes have satellite dishes and antennas on the roof. Contact the provider to have these items removed before the roof replacement project begins. While the roofer can do this for a homeowner, it will add time to the project. Make their life easier by having this work carried out before they arrive.
Locate Exterior Power Outlets
The roofers will need power outlets for their tools. Today, many homes have exterior power outlets, so they should be located for the roofers before they arrive. If possible, gather extension cords for their use.
Alert the Neighbors
Let the neighbors know the roof will be replaced. They will know what is happening when they hear noises from the house. They may also choose to rearrange their schedules if noises coming from the roof replacement project will interfere with their work or disturb their children or pets.
These tips will allow any homeowner to complete a safe and smooth roof replacement project. The roofer may offer other suggestions and tips. Fortunately, the inconveniences are temporary, and the home will soon have a new roof that makes it more secure and improves its curb appeal, making the project worth it in the end.