There are several steps to a roof replacement to ensure the process goes as seamlessly as possible. Knowing what’s involved right from when you first call for a consultation is important so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly. It also allows you and the roofing company to be on the same page regarding everything from the budget to the anticipated results.
The Roof Replacement Consultation
A roof replacement consultation is a crucial part of the process. We’ll discuss what roofing materials are ideal for your home, your budget, what the project consists of, and how long everything will take. Book the consultation as far in advance as possible so that there are ample opportunities to schedule a time and date for the roof replacement that works best for your schedule.
Types of Roofing Materials and Their Longevity
We specialize in shingle roofing, specifically asphalt, slate, and hand-split shake. All are durable and can hold up to the elements as long as they’re well-maintained, depending on local weather conditions. However, between the three, slate shingles have the longest lifespan, potentially lasting 100+ years. Asphalt shingles typically have a lifespan of approximately 20 years and hand-split shake last about 30 years. The cost coincides with longevity. Asphalt is the most budget-friendly, followed by hand-split shake and then slate.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Roof Replacement
Many homeowners who don’t have proper training attempt to do roof repairs or a replacement by themselves as a way to save money, but we recommend against it. It’s a huge safety risk that could lead to a serious injury or worse. Attempting the project will also likely worsen the issue, which can increase the complexity of the problem and its corresponding repair or replacement costs.
Our roofers are experts in removing the old material, inspections, making any necessary repairs, applying the new material, and all the other roof replacement steps. We know how to work efficiently, effectively, and safely to get the old roof off and the new one put on as quickly as possible, especially if there’s inclement weather in the forecast.
What Usually Happens During a Roof Replacement
Once the initial consultation and inspection occur, there are several standard steps that typically happen once the official roof replacement begins. We strip everything down to the roof decking, which is the structural base of your roof. Our team performs a full inspection and makes any necessary repairs. We also inspect other components, such as the drip edge and flashing, and replace them if required.
Next comes the underlayment, which gets sandwiched between the roof decking and the roofing material. Last is applying the roofing material. We continuously inspect the work along the way to make sure everything is done correctly and in accordance with safety guidelines.
Roofers Clean Up After They’re Done
Cleaning up the debris is part of the roof replacement process. It’s important that we not leave our clients with any mess they’ll have to clean up themselves. We collect all the debris gathered on tarps and check for any wayward debris, such as nails or old shingles. However, it’s important to note that we may occasionally miss small pieces. Homeowners should be aware and cautious while walking around their property after the roof replacement, just in case, especially if they let kids or pets out to play.
What Homeowners Should Look Out for After a Roof Replacement
We take significant steps throughout the roofing process to make sure everything is done perfectly. However, it’s always a good idea to inspect the interior of your home during and after a storm following a roof replacement. This will ensure there are no leaks and that your roof is structurally sound. Look for any potential signs of water, such as wet spots in the ceiling or on the walls. If you notice anything that doesn’t seem right, it’s important to contact us immediately. Take pictures, if possible, so that you can forward them to us.
Common Questions Homeowners Have About Roof Replacement
Can Residents Remain in the Home?
Residents can remain in the home during a roof replacement, but temporarily relocating is often better. The process can be incredibly loud, and vibrations will surely happen, which can be particularly disturbing for those who work remotely. It can also be problematic if you have pets, such as dogs, who get scared easily or need to go outside to use the bathroom. A roof replacement could take as little as a day, but it may also take a few days up to a week, depending on the project’s complexity. The weather will also impact how long the process will take.
We can give you an idea during the consultation of approximately how long the process will take, but it’s better for you to overestimate rather than underestimate. For instance, if you anticipate the project will take three days, plan for it to take five, just in case.
Do Roofers Put Protection Down on the Property?
Roofers do put protection down on the property, but it’s also important for you to take steps to safeguard your belongings before the roofers arrive. This ensures that nothing was missed, as you’re the one who knows your property best.
Start inside by covering any items that may get dusty in your attic from dirt and debris falling during the roofing process. You also want to take any breakables off your walls to prevent them from getting broken due to wall vibrations.
There are many areas outdoors that you’ll want to protect with items like buckets or tarps to signify where roofers should be especially careful. For instance, cover your sprinkler heads with buckets so that roofers won’t accidentally step on them. Use additional buckets to cover plants and flowers you can’t move, but relocate planters to a safer space where they won’t get dirty or damaged. Cover shrubs and outdoor grills/kitchens with tarps.
Make sure your pool is also covered so that no roofing materials fall in it. If you have any other water features or small pools, drain the water and temporarily relocate them if possible. Move as many other items away from your home as possible, including hoses and outdoor furniture.
Do Homeowners Need to Move Their Vehicles?
Moving your vehicles is one of the most important things you should do to prepare for a roof replacement. Falling debris will happen, and you don’t want your vehicles right in the middle of the work zone. It’s also important that we have space to park our own work vehicles so that we can easily access the materials we need to help speed up the process.
Many homeowners think of only moving cars, trucks, or SUVs, but we recommend moving every type of vehicle near your home. For example, you’ll also want to relocate motorcycles, boats, ATVs, and bicycles. This helps prevent them from getting damaged and creates a clear work area for the roofers.
Start preparing today for your roof replacement. Fraser Roofing, LLC in Georgia and South Carolina can help you with every step, from the inspection to roof replacements and repairs. Count on us for transparent communication and honesty to ensure you always know what’s happening throughout the process. Give us a call today for standard appointments and emergency repairs.
