Image from Zohair Mirza on Unsplash
While each weather season is meant to be enjoyed, sometimes the weather may be extreme, wreaking havoc on the roof. While roofs can withstand wear and tear over the years, they get overwhelmed over time calling for a replacement. When that time comes, here is how to prepare for a roof replacement.
Relocate Your Vehicles
Your vehicles will have to find another home in the meantime to allow your roofing contractor to use that prime parking space as storage. Contractors need somewhere easily accessible to load those shingles and other tools as well as debris. Materials can accidentally fall off the roof, damaging your vehicle, so it’s best to park them at a safe distance until all the roof replacement work is done.
Remove Wall Decorations
Hammering on the roof may cause vibrations in the house, affecting wall hangings. If you have hanging items on walls, especially on upper floors, consider removing them in advance to hinder them from falling and getting damaged. The wall hangings may include framed photos, mirrors, paintings, and other similar objects.
Take Your Kids and Pets to Safety
While kids may be excited to watch how the replacement is being done from a safe distance, the work zone can pose danger to your pets and children. Items can fall from the roof and accidentally hurt them. The hammering noises may also disturb sleep habits and increase anxiety. You can take your children and pets to a friend or family member to keep them safe while the roof is replaced.
Secure Belongings in the Attic
During a new roof installation, small debris and dust fall in attic spaces. You can keep your personal items secure and clean by covering them with drop cloths or old sheets. If it is possible, consider relocating fragile and valuable items to a safer place to avoid damage. Prepare to do a light vacuuming of the attic area when the installation is complete.
Cut the Grass and Prune the Trees
Ensure you trim all the tree branches near the roof beforehand to give your roofing contractor unobstructed access to the roof. Be sure to cut the grass, as it will make it easy to clear all the nails, debris, and dust after replacing the roof.
Clear Toys and Patio Furniture
Roofing professionals need to move freely to access the room from any corner of the house. You wouldn’t want to see them tripping on your children’s toys while carrying roofing materials or wasting time shifting your patio furniture. Debris and shingles can also fall on your outdoor furniture and toys damaging them. Move them to the storage room or under a shed and use a cloth to cover them.
Inspect Your House for Existing Damage
You can take a tour around your home the day before the roof installation to inspect and take pictures of current damages like damaged light fixtures, and torn window screens. Generally, take pictures of the entire property as it will act as proof if you notice new damage after your roof has been replaced. While a reputable roofing professional will do all it takes to protect your home from damage, mistakes happen and you might want them to own up to it.
Proper preparation before you install a new roof will help preserve your valuables, protect your children and pets, create a clear working environment, and minimize damage and accidents. It is the first step to having a successful reroofing project.
