If you are getting a reroof on your home or property, you are going to need a checklist of some of the items that need to be taken care of. You may think there’s nothing for you to do since you hired a professional roofing contractor — but as a homeowner, there are some action items you need to take before and after the roof installation is completed.
Roof installation sounds a big project and it is, that is why it is very important to be prepared and have answers to all your questions before you sign a contract with any roofing company. So, let’s jump into our homeowner’s checklist for roof installation.
Item #1: Hire a roofing contractor
First and foremost, you have to get the most difficult step done, which is to hire a reliable roofing contractor. You can find a roofing contractor through your contacts or a web search. Make sure to check certifications and reviews before hiring anyone. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t do roof installation on your own (unless you’re a licensed roofing technician) since it bears risks, and requires special skills and equipment.
Item #2: Indoor preparations
Although a roof replacement takes place outside of your property, there are still some preparations you need to make for your belongings inside the house. Roof installment creates vibrations and might cause things to fall or even create leaks on the ceiling. Roof installation can also create a lot of dust. So, here are some tips on prepping the indoors of your home before the roof installation project begins:
- Empty any shelves and kitchen cabinets, and collect loose items such as paintings, photos, decoration, etc.
- Cover your furniture, as well as anything in your garage and attic.
- If you have an open beam ceiling, then remove rugs.
In summary, cover and collect everything that can get dirty or fall from a shelf or wall.
Item #3 Outdoor preparations
Roof installation is a messy process, so your yard needs some preparation too. Roofing contractors highly recommend covering up your pool if you have one, otherwise it will need a thorough cleaning later.
If you have special plants outside, then relocate them or cover them up to prevent potential damage.
Don’t park your vehicles on your driveway or in the garage. It is safer to move vehicles on the street so that nothing accidentally falls on it while the technicians are at work. Additionally, roofing contractors often need the empty driveway space for their equipment and materials.
Item #4 Safety
And last but not least, take the appropriate safety measures recommended by your roofing contractor. Whether it’s a residential or commercial property, there should be no one inside during the roof installation. Move your family, employees and pets away until the installation is over.
If you have solar panels, satellites or anything else attached to your old roof, you need to coordinate their removal before the roof installation begins. Make sure they’re safely detached and ready to be used again.
And one last tip, if you are still planning to enter your property while the roof is being installed, make sure that the access path is safe and you’re advised to wear a construction helmet.
Check out our “What to Expect During Your Roof Installation” guide here.
