A roof replacement is a major construction project that takes place directly above your home. It can be expensive, depending on Roofing contractor and materials chosen.
A middle-of-the-road option is reroofing, which adds another layer of shingles over the existing ones. It is less expensive than a full roof replacement, but it has its drawbacks too.
The roofing material you choose is more than just a cosmetic element. It will determine how well your home is protected from the elements and contribute to its overall style. Whether your roof is an original piece for new construction or you’re replacing it on your existing home, there are many choices to consider. Choosing the right materials that fit your needs and budget will ensure that your roof will perform as expected for years to come.
The cost of the materials is a major consideration for many homeowners and will play a large role in their selection process. Asphalt shingles are one of the most common and affordable options for residential roofs and come in a variety of colors and styles. They also have a long life expectancy. Other popular options include ceramic tiles and clay tile roofing, which offer a more traditional look. These types of roofing are durable and energy-efficient, but they are typically more expensive than asphalt shingles.
Another factor to consider is the climate where your house is located. Some materials do better in certain regions, such as ceramic tiles for cold-weather homes and slate tile for varying climates. In addition, some roofs have different pitches and require specialized roofing materials. For example, a low-pitch roof may require a specialized material to help water drain properly.
A qualified contractor can help you decide which materials to use based on the architectural style of your home. This will help you find a style that complements the rest of your house and fits with the neighborhood. For a more eclectic look, you can also go with a faux roofing option that mimics more traditional materials at a fraction of the price.
A final consideration to keep in mind is the weight of the roofing materials and how they will impact the structure of your house. Heavy roofs, such as slate or tile, can add a lot of weight to the house. This will affect the structure and may even require a stronger foundation to support the weight.
Prepare your attic.
The attic is a popular place to store personal items and boxes of sentimental value, but it’s important to clear it out before the roofers arrive. They’ll be walking in and out of it during the reroofing process, and dust and debris will likely fall on your belongings. Cover them with drop cloths or old sheets to protect them.
It’s also a good idea to remove wall hangings, especially if they’re heavy or made of glass, such as mirrors and knick-knack shelves. Vibrations from hammering will shake the walls, and items could be knocked loose.
In addition, make sure that your gutters are clean and free of debris. Your roofers will need to access the gutters and downspouts to check and repair them, and you don’t want them getting clogged with dirt and leaves while they’re working on your new roof.
If you have trees near your house, trim them to keep them from encroaching on the roof. If the branches are too close, they can rub against the shingles, and the vibrations from the hammering may cause them to crack or shatter. Also move outdoor furniture, ceramic landscaping features, and anything else that might be damaged by falling debris during the roofing process.
A good time to get a new roof is in the spring or fall. These seasons typically have milder weather and less moisture, which helps the shingles seal more effectively. It’s also a good time to replace your roof because the contractors aren’t as busy and will be able to get to work sooner. If you’re ready to have your roof replaced, contact a local roofing contractor and schedule an appointment. They’ll give you a quote and help you prepare your home for the project. They’ll also take care of any necessary cleanup once it’s complete.
Keep your pets indoors.
During roofing, loud noises and vibrations from the construction may disturb pets and small children. These situations can be dangerous for them, so it’s best if they find somewhere else to stay during the roofing process if possible. If not, they should be kept indoors, where they will be safe from loud noises and strangers. It would also be a good idea to prepare extra comforts for them, such as treats, toys, and plenty of hiding places. Taking them on long walks and providing them with plenty of exercise can also help soothe their nerves. This is especially helpful for dogs, but it can work for other breeds as well.
This will also help to keep them calm and distracted from the loud noises and disruption of their regular routine.
Prepare your home.
A roof replacement is a noisy process, and constant hammering can disrupt your home’s interior. If you have small children or pets, consider finding temporary accommodations for them during the roofing project. For your own safety and that of your belongings, you should also avoid being home while the roofers work. Your kids and pets can become distressed by the noise and can get hurt by stray nails or debris that falls during the roofing process.
If you can, remove any outdoor toys or furniture from the yard. This will allow the roofers to easily access your home’s roof. It’s also a good idea to clear away anything that protrudes from your lawn, such as sprinkler heads and yard lights. This will help minimize tripping hazards for the roofers.
You should also take down wall decorations such as mirrors, paintings, knick-knack shelves, and collectible china plates. The vibrations caused by hammering on the roof can knock these items loose and damage them. It’s best to move them before the roofers arrive.
Similarly, you should cover any personal belongings in your attic with sheets or tarps to protect them from dust and debris. You should also take down any furniture that’s located near the ceiling to make it easier for the roofers to reach their work zones.
Finally, you should trim any tree branches that extend beyond the roof or work area of your house. This will facilitate cleanup and ensure that the trees are protected from falling debris during the roofing process.
If you have a garage that’s attached to your house, it’s a good idea to move your car somewhere else the night before the roofers start working. This will prevent your car from getting covered in dust, dirt, and nail fragments. You should also remove patio furniture, grills, lawn ornaments, and other items from the garage. If you don’t have the space to move these items, put them in your shed or garage and cover them with a tarp. You should also park your car across the street or in a neighbor’s driveway to prevent it from being damaged by trucks and equipment that may be brought to your house for the roof replacement.
