Is it time to replace your roof? Whether you have already decided to go ahead with a roof replacement or are still considering it, there are a few things you can do to prepare for it. A roof replacement is a major upgrade on your home that requires a lot of work and time. Take the right steps to ensure things go off without a hitch. Here are some tips to prepare for this replacement.

Clear Your Exterior

While contractors will be working on your roof, that's not the only part of the house you need to worry about. The roofing crew will need enough safe space around the home to comfortably work. They'll have a work truck, ladder, and tools and need to comfortably go up and down from the roof. Plus, they need a safe enough radius in case something falls from the roof. That way, items like patio furniture, plants, or ornaments won't get broken. Take the same precaution with your car. If you normally keep your car on the street or in the driveway, you should park your car in a garage for the time being.

Take Down Wall Hangings

A roof replacement has a major impact on your home. In addition to causing a lot of noise, it may also cause the walls to shake. If you have any fragile wall hangings or valuable paintings on your walls, you may want to play it safe and take them down.

Protect Things in the Attic

Do you have an attic where you have many things stored? Your attic is the space that's closest to your roof, so do as much as possible to protect anything you plan to keep in there during the roof replacement process. You can cover all those items with a tarp or plastic to protect them from falling debris. If you have space in the main house, you may also want to bring certain items down from the attic until the roofers have completed their job.

Alert the Neighbors

A roof replacement is a major construction project. Therefore, it can cause a lot of noise, not only for the people in your home but the people who live around it. You can be a good neighbor and alert your neighbors about the work ahead of time. If you have an online neighborhood chat group, you can always post when construction on your roof will happen. You can also be extra nice by giving your next-door neighbors a gift of flowers or treats to make up for the excessive noise.

Move Kids and Pets

Do you have pets or little children in the home? If so, you may want to find a place to move them while the workers are there. Is your home big enough to have a designated room or area they can be in for a while? If your animals or kids are particularly anxious, it may be best to send them to stay with another family member or a friend until the roofing replacement finishes. Not having kids or pets around is good for the roofers and the little ones. That way, the roofers won't have to deal with curious pets and kids getting in their way. Plus, the kids and pets are less likely to be anxious because of strangers making a lot of noise around them.

Ask Questions

Before you sign the final contract, ask as many questions as possible of your potential roofer. You want to ensure to have the right materials for your roof replacement. After all, asphalt shingles can last 20 years, while metal and slate can last for 50 to 70 years, according to Bob Vila. The recommendations from your roofer consider your needs, home type, and climate. Ask the contractor about the project scope, so you have an idea of how long it’ll take. Of course, you should get proof of certification and insurance and ask them for referrals to contact.

According to Home365, roof replacements can yield 85% of the investment back to the customer once they resell. A roof replacement is a worthy project to prepare for. When you’re ready to give your home a new roof, contact our team at Rich Roofing & Exteriors. We've been in the business for many years, and you can rely on us for a strong, sturdy roof.