Getting a new roof does not have to feel stressful and overwhelming, especially once you familiarize yourself with the process and prepare ahead of time. Whether you are in the market for a residential or commercial roofing project, there are a few ways to prepare to minimize potential issues or additional expenses from arising and occurring.
Do Your Homework
Conduct adequate and thorough research on various roof types as well as roofing costs for your roof needs based on your location and available providers and/or contractors near you. Familiarize yourself with different roofing types and styles while also comparing roof choices and solutions that your neighbors have in place. When you know the basics of roofing, it is much easier to move forward with a large roofing project which oftentimes requires a major investment.
Clear Vehicles and Driveways
At least one week prior to your roofing installation, begin clearing your home’s driveway and any walkways that the contractors may need access to once they arrive on site to begin the installation or any type of roofing work. Remove any vehicles from your home’s driveway and clear the driveway from toys and other belongings, especially if you have an attached garage. Roofing contractors typically require the use of a home’s driveway and other outdoor walkways to help transport materials and equipment and as a place for trash and demolition material.
Clean and Clear Your Home’s Garden
Do you have a garden in your yard or even surrounding the perimeter of your home? It is important to take the necessary steps to protect and preserve your garden prior to the arrival of roofing contractors. Oftentimes during an install, repair, or replacement, shingles and granules fall directly from the roofing area, making their way into gardens and surrounding lawn areas. Remove garden statues, décor, and cover any and all plants during the time they are working on your roof.
Mark Special Trees or Plants
If you have a special plant, flower, or tree in your yard that is close to your home and may be at risk of damage during a roof job, be sure to mark the plants or trees individually and to inform your contractors ahead of time. Inform the roofing company ahead of time of any specially marked trees, plants, or belongings in the yard to help your chosen contractors to avoid causing preventable damages or losses while they are working on the job.
Clear Your Attic
Whenever you are having a new roof installed, it is imperative to clean and clear your attic as much as possible. Remove belongings, furniture, collectibles, and personal items from your attic space when you are working with roofing contractors, especially for a brand new roof installation.
Protect Your Garage
If you have an attached garage, you will also need to protect your furniture and personal belongings inside of the garage itself as your roof is being replaced. Simply covering your garage equipment, vehicles, tools, and other belongings is typically sufficient. Most often, dirt, debris, and granules are most likely to fall during a roofing installation, which can damage or make an even bigger mess to clean once the job is complete.
Pets
If possible, keep all pets indoors and prevent them from using your yard or surrounding perimeter during the roof installation. Some roof installs may require only a day, while others may require upwards of a week. Be sure to plan ahead of time to protect and prepare your furry friends.
Planning for a new roof is not overly complicated and can be done with a bit of shuffling items and belongings around in addition to ongoing communication with your contractors. By taking the time to research roofing contractors, roofing types, and clearing your home ahead of time, you can feel confident and prepared to take on and tackle any roofing project, no matter how large or small.
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