A modern roofing system is more effective in protecting your home from the elements. Asphalt shingles today can last up to twice as long as old shingles, even much longer if you regularly maintain them.
It’s an exciting time to finally prepare for a roof replacement. However, there are steps you should take to ensure you’re fully ready for this extensive project:
1. Get an Estimate
Some home improvement websites have a roofing estimate calculator that you can use to get an idea of how much you’ll be spending, including estimates for installment plans. Use these calculators to your advantage. However, it’s always best to call a few reputable roofers to ask for a free estimate.
2. Choose a Roofer
Even if you have some experience with tools and have replaced a few missing shingles, that does not qualify you to do a complete roofing replacement. You need a licensed and manufacturer-certified professional. Your best option is to hire a local roofing contractor with a good reputation. Ask your roofer for an estimate.
3. Prepare Your Yard
Roofers will be walking all over your yard while they install your new roof. Debris and nails will also land in your yard during the work. Your roofer will lay down some tarps to protect your yard and also park a dumpster to keep the area clean. Make sure there is space for their truck and the dumpster. Move your vehicles a safe distance down the street instead of keeping it in your garage.
Remove your kids’ bicycles and toys from the yard. Keep your gardening tools and garden hose in the shed. Move your patio furniture. Ask your roofer to put some protection over your plants and trees, especially the expensive and fragile ones. Move any potted plants away from the work area.
The rule of thumb is, whatever isn’t needed for the project shouldn’t be lying around your yard.
4. Inform Your Neighbors
Your neighbors will appreciate the time you take to tell them about your roofing project even before the truck arrives. They might need to cover plants or move a few things to protect them from any stray debris. They’re likely to be more cooperative even if the work is noisy and messy.
5. Clear Your Attic
Whatever is in your attic is vulnerable to getting wet in case it rains before your new roof is ready. Dirt and debris can also land on it. Remove everything in your attic. Dispose of whatever you don’t need anymore, and move the rest to a safe place.
6. Protect Your Fragile Belongings
Remove any wall decor as vibrations can knock them off their hangers. If you have wall-mounted TVs, remove those as well. Fragile items like china should be kept in a secure area. Lock away anything valuable to avoid misplacing them.
7. Prepare Your Kids and Your Pets
Young children can get frightened and upset when the work begins. Have them stay at a loved one’s house if they’re comfortable there. If you’re staying at your loved one’s home, too, or moving to a hotel for the meantime, give your roofers your phone number so they can call you if required.
Pets are usually sensitive to noises like hammering. Move them to a room that’s farthest from whatever your roofers are working on at the moment. Give them some comforting toys. Take them for walks to give them additional comfort and support. If you can, take them to your loved one’s home as well.
If your kids are old enough to stay with you at your home while the roof is being replaced, warn them about playing in the yard. Debris and stray nails make your yard unsafe so discourage them from going outdoors.
For more advice on what you should do in preparation for a new roof installation, talk to your roofing contractor. Work with Goodrich Roofing. We are certified by some of the industry’s top roofing manufacturers, and we care about our customers’ comfort and safety. Call us today at (505) 219-4450, or fill out this form to get your free quote. We work with homeowners in New Mexico.