Thinking about getting a new roof? Whether you’re replacing an old one or installing a roof on a brand-new build, the process involves more than just picking the right materials. To make sure the installation goes smoothly, and without unnecessary stress, a bit of prep around your home can make a big difference.
1. Clear the Area Around Your Home
Austin roof installation isn’t a small job; there’ll be a crew moving around your home and quite a bit of material to deal with. Think about what’s currently around your house—patio furniture, grills, potted plants, and even those garden ornaments you love. These items need to be moved to a safe distance from your home, ideally away from where the crew will be working and where materials could fall.
If you have any vehicles in the driveway, make a plan to park them elsewhere during the installation. Not only will this protect your cars from falling debris, but it also gives the workers clear access to the roof. This can speed up the project, as they won’t need to worry about damaging your belongings.
2. Protect Items Inside Your Home
Surprisingly, a roof installation can affect the inside of your house too. The vibrations from heavy machinery and footsteps on the roof can cause dust and debris to fall and may even rattle items on walls or shelves. Take a few moments to remove or secure fragile items, especially those close to the roofline.
Think about wall-mounted pictures, mirrors, and any light fixtures that might be prone to shifting or falling. While damage is unlikely, a bit of caution never hurts. You can also cover furniture and other valuables with sheets to make cleanup easier, especially in attics or upper floors directly below the roof.
3. Consider Your Children and Pets
Roof installations aren’t exactly quiet. Between the sounds of tearing off old materials, hammering, and machinery, things can get pretty loud. If you have young children or pets, this can be a challenging experience. Noise-sensitive pets might get scared, while young children could be curious about the activity outside.
To keep everyone safe and calm, consider making arrangements for kids and pets during work hours. Whether that means a day at a family member’s house, a visit to a doggy daycare, or just setting up a cozy area in a quieter room, it’s worth thinking about. It’s also good to remind older kids that the worksite is off-limits to avoid any accidents.
4. Communicate With Your Neighbours
Roof installations are often a multi-day project, and let’s face it—they’re hard to miss. Between the sounds and occasional disruptions, your neighbors will notice when work begins. As a courtesy, give them a heads-up about the timing and duration of the project. A simple conversation can go a long way in keeping your neighborhood on good terms.
Let them know about potential noise, any changes in parking, and even debris that might find its way into their yard. While your roofers will do their best to keep everything contained, open communication can prevent any tension down the road.
5. Make Sure the Attic is Ready
Many people forget about the attic when preparing for a roof installation. However, since it’s directly beneath the roof, this area will be impacted the most. Roofing work can stir up dust and dirt, and in some cases, small bits of material may fall through any existing cracks or gaps.
If you use your attic for storage, consider covering your belongings with plastic sheets or moving sensitive items to a safer place temporarily. A quick pre-installation sweep can also ensure there’s nothing valuable left unprotected.
6. Trim Trees and Cut the Grass
If you have trees with overhanging branches near your roof, now’s the time to trim them back. This will make it easier for the crew to work without obstacles and can prevent branches from damaging your new roof. Overgrown branches could also drop debris onto your new shingles after the work is done, so it’s best to deal with them in advance.
Additionally, cutting the grass before work begins might seem unrelated, but it helps make cleanup much easier. Short grass makes it easier to spot and pick up small debris like nails or shingles that might fall during the installation. Roofers typically do a thorough cleanup, but this simple step can ensure nothing gets missed.
7. Check Access Points for the Roofing Crew
A roof installation requires a lot of back-and-forth from the roofing crew, often with equipment and materials in tow. Clear pathways around your home to give them easy access to the roof. This could involve removing any items that block doors, gates, or other access points.
If you have fencing around your yard, consider whether you’ll need to leave it open or make special arrangements for the crew. Some roofing companies will go over these logistics with you, but having a plan ready can streamline their work and reduce potential disruptions.
8. Prepare for Cleanup
Once the roofing crew finishes, there will still be a bit of cleanup to do. Roofers generally try to leave the area spotless, but some debris might linger. Plan a quick post-installation inspection around your home, especially if you have small children or pets who might come across stray nails or pieces of material.
A magnetic sweeper can be helpful for picking up nails or screws that might have fallen in your yard. You can also check gutters and downspouts to ensure no roofing material got lodged during the installation.
Enjoying Your New Roof
With the right preparation, getting a new roof can be an exciting (and smooth) experience. Taking these steps not only protects your property but also makes the job easier for the roofing crew. Once the installation is complete, you’ll have the peace of mind that your home is secure and looking great. Now, you can sit back and enjoy the benefits of your new roof, knowing your home is ready to handle whatever the weather brings!
