roofing

Things You Should Do Before Getting a New Roof

The roof is one of the most important components of your home as it protects the structures against harsh weather conditions and elements. With proper care, your roofing system would last longer, but a time will eventually come when it will need to be replaced. When this need arises, careful planning and preparations are a must to make the most of your investment. 

Today, we talk about the essential things to do before getting a new roof. 

Hire an Experienced Contractor

No matter what home improvement project you are planning, hiring an experienced professional is vital. Consider a contractor who specializes in the kind of roof that you have on your home. As much as possible, go for local companies for easier scheduling and communication. Local roofers have also likely worked with someone you know, so you get to see the quality of their projects in person. 

Another thing you can do is to look up local roofers online. You will then get a list of roofing companies in your area. Experts suggest obtaining at least three estimates from three different contractors to help you find the right one for your project. Do not forget to do your research, read reviews, check portfolios and ask for references. 

Notify Your Neighbors

Roof replacement can be messy and noisy, making it essential to let your neighbors know about your project ahead of time. A heads-up will allow them to prepare and will not be surprised when the actual construction starts. If there is only a little distance between your homes, tell them about the possibility of your roofer hanging a tarp for added protection. 

Take Care of Valuables in Your Attic

Do you use your attic as storage? Are there valuable items stored in this part of your home? You may want to move them or cover them with plastic or tarp to avoid damage. During a roof or fascia replacement, shingles, nails and other refuse materials may fall into the attic. They can also land into your insulation or your belongings. 

Don’t Forget About Items on Your Roof

Is there a satellite dish on your roof? If you have one, be sure to call your satellite provider before getting a new roof. The installers will typically place the satellite on your siding so you can continue watching your favorite shows. Let your contractors know if you are no longer using the satellite so they can remove and dispose of it. 

Prepare Your Lawn

Debris, such as nails and shingles, may fall onto your outdoor spaces during the construction. After your roof or fascia replacement project, your contractor will walk around your property to locate and pick up fallen nails. This task will be easier for your roofers if you mow the lawn before the project starts. 

Protect Your Garden

Your contractor will place tarps around your home’s perimeter, covering flowers planted along the edges. It will keep your greeneries protected from debris, but flowers may get damaged. Consider planting annuals until the following year. You may also want to schedule your project during the fall. 

Invest in High-Quality Underlayment

Multiple components compose your roofing system. Keep in mind that, while it is water-shedding, it is not completely waterproof. The materials below are just as important as the shingles on the surface. Make sure to invest in superior quality synthetic underlayment to prolong the lifespan of your roof. 

Ask Your Roofer Questions

Whether you are planning a roof or soffits replacement, doing research on the materials that will be used for your project is essential. Shingles come in various colors, sizes, brands and quality. Before choosing a roofing material, ask your contractor what kind of warranty is available for the product. Warranty is a key factor to consider when selecting materials for your home. It protects you from faulty products and poor installation. 

Another thing to ask your roofer is if there is someone you can contact in case you have concerns during the project. You should have someone you can reach if you have any questions or need updates. You must also know how the billing process works as it is a common cause of confusion or misunderstanding during home improvement projects. 

Beware of Carbon Monoxide Leaks

Detecting carbon monoxide leaks is not easy because it is not visible, and you cannot smell it. While your roofer will take necessary precautions during the project, there is still the possibility of exhaust vents shifting or dislodging. When this happens, a carbon monoxide leak can occur. Before the roof replacement starts, check if your carbon monoxide detector is working as this will let you know about the presence of the harmful gas. 

Keep Children Away From the Site

Do you have kids at home? Make sure to let them know about the dangers of playing around the construction site. They should be away from the site at all times. Materials like metal flashing, ladders and nails are all hazards to children. Ensure their safety by supervising children at all times during your roof replacement.

Consider Relocating Your Pets

Noise and the presence of strangers can startle your pets, making your project an unpleasant experience for them. If you have anxious pets, it is best to have them stay with family, friends or the vet during the project. 

Protect Your Home’s Interior

Removing the old roofing materials and installing the new ones can generate lots of vibrations in your home. Expect that there will be hammering and sawing during the process. Before the project, remove loose or fragile items from walls and shelves to prevent breakage. If you can, it is also a good idea to take down items mounted on your ceilings, such as chandeliers and ceiling fans. 

Make sure to choose a reliable contractor for your project like AQ Roofing LLC. Give us a call at (501) 951-1683, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate. We look forward to working with you on your upcoming project.

Marcos Quijano

Recent Posts

Interviewing Roofer References: Important Questions to Ask

When hiring a "roofing contractor near me" for a residential or commercial project, it is…

1 year ago

What You Need to Know About Roofs and Tax Deductions

Tax deductions can take some pressure off when repairing or replacing your roof. It can…

1 year ago

5 Reasons Roofs Fail

Whether you are building a new roof or replacing an old one, making sure it…

1 year ago

Improving Home Energy Efficiency: How Your Roof Can Help

When it comes to home energy efficiency, your roof is an integral factor. In this…

1 year ago

When Does a Roof Need Repairs?

A roof provides protection for a home, but it is not impervious to damage. Knowing…

1 year ago

How to Deal With Shingle Blow-offs

Shingle blow-offs occur when high winds or other extreme weather conditions cause your roofing shingles…

1 year ago