Getting a brand new roof can be an exciting experience for the whole family. However, it can also be stressful. Whenever you’re having any kind of work done on your home, there are ways to prepare so that the process goes as smoothly as possible. When it comes to your roof replacement, here’s how you can prepare.

Outside

The roofers will be working on the exterior of your home, so of course there are ways you’ll want to prep your driveway and yard.

Yard

You’ll want to mow your lawn before the roofers arrive. Oftentimes, there will be nails and other debris from your roof replacement. It is easier to clean up this debris from shorter grass.

Protect Plants

If you have special plants, shrubs, or trees located near your home, you’ll want to make sure they’re protected. This could mean marking them with construction tape or even covering them with a tarp.

Move Grills/ Patio Furniture

The immediate area around your home should be cleared of anything that could get in the roofers’ way or become damaged during the roof replacement. Make sure there is at least 15 feet of clearance between your home and any grills, patio furniture, or even children’s toys.

Cars

The roofers will need full access to your driveway, not only for their vehicles but also any equipment and materials as well. It’s a good idea to move your own vehicles the night before. Consider parking them a safe distance away on the street or even ask a neighbor if you can park in their driveway.

Exterior Plugs

Your roofing professionals will be using powered equipment. Make sure your exterior plugs are working prior to their arrival. If you do not have any exterior plugs, then there is the possibility that extension cords will need to be run through a window or door. Be aware of the tripping hazard this will pose.

Tell Neighbors

While you’re outside preparing your home for your new roof installation, it’s a good idea to warn your neighbors. The process of having a roof replaced can be loud and disruptive, especially if you live somewhere where your neighbors are very close. There is also the possibility of roofing debris falling into their yard, and if they are warned about this beforehand, they’ll likely be less perturbed if it does happen.

Inside

Although you may think that all the prep for your roof replacement is going to happen outside, you are still having work done to your home. This means that there are preparations you’ll want to do inside as well.

Walls

The vibrations of hammers and machinery can travel down through the walls of your home. For this reason, you’ll want to remove anything from the walls that has a chance of falling and breaking. This can mean anything from mirrors and paintings to wreathes and loose shelves. You may also want to remove any fragile knickknacks from shelves or cabinets, especially on the floor of your home that is closest to the roof.

Attic

We tend to store a lot of things in our attics. With the roofing professionals walking and hammering away on your roof, this could cause dust or debris to become dislodged in your attic. To keep your personal belongings as clean as possible, cover them with a sheet or drop cloth. After the roof replacement is complete, you may need to do some light vacuuming in areas.

Pets/Kids

Having your roof replaced is a noisy ordeal. If you have pets or small children in the house, the presence of roofers could be distressing. Oftentimes, a roof replacement takes a day or two, depending on the size of your roof and the roofing material being used. Those two days can feel even longer if constant hammering is keeping your children from napping or making your dog bark. This could be a good time for a visit to grandma and grandpa’s.

Your Roof Replacement

If you think it’s time for your roof to be replaced, you can request a quote from Southern Roofing Co. today!