Getting a new roof is an exciting experience for many people. The kids and pets will be there watching the roofers tearing, ripping, hauling and nailing – and this is where they have the urge to move as close as possible so they can see it even better. This is very dangerous. Once the contractors get there, the house becomes a work zone, and just like any other work zones, there are some hazards.
Ultimate Roofing ensures the process of replacing the roof is seamless and stress-free. There are some safety precautions and preparations you should be making.
Below are some tips you can use to make the process a smooth as possible. Our main goal is having you and your family safe when the work begins.
1. Thinking about the kids and pets
There will be loud noises coming from the work site, and this can result in increased anxiety or disturbance of sleep habits. While it can be exciting to watch this from afar, the work zones are very risky for the children and pets.
You should have a talk with your kids so they can know the areas of the home that are off-limits during the project. Young children and pets are not able to understand these risks, and that is why you should consider visiting your family of friends when the project is going on.
2. Relocating your vehicles
You will need to leave your prime parking space during the project. The contractors are going to need easy access to their trucks and tools during the project. They will also need space for loading debris and shingles. Until the work is done, you should try keeping your car at a safe distance.
It is also a good idea to close your garage door to keep out debris and dust.
3. Removing wall decorations
There will be a lot of vibration from the machinery and hammers, and this might travel to your home. This is common when existing decks are needed.
Have a walk through the room below the roof. Check for pictures or any other items hanging from the walls or ceiling. If there are decorations not secured with screws, consider removing them as a precaution.
You might also have to remove decorative light fixtures such as chandeliers, just to be on the safe side.
4. Covering belongings in the attic
During the project, roofers will be walking on the roof and pounding it. Small debris and dust are going to fall in attic spaces as a result. Covering your personal items using drop cloths or old sheets is a good idea. Once the project has been done, vacuum the areas that were affected.
5. Moving grills and patio furniture away from the work site
A garage or shade is the best place of storing outside items such as patio furniture, lawn ornaments, grills, and potted plants when the roof installation is being done.
If there is no garage on-site, then consider putting them together in an area of the yard that is a safe distance from the work site.
You should remember that most contractors might not help in moving items outside or inside your home.
6. Pruning trees and cutting grass before the work starts
Before the contractor can start working, tree branches hanging lower or near the roof needs to be cut or trimmed. The contractor should use drop cloths so that it protects plants and grass around the work area, but you have to cut the grass a day or two before the project starts.
Having short grass is important because debris will not hide in the lawn, and cleaning up will be a little easier and thorough.
7. Identifying several accessible power outlets
The roofing team will be using power outlets when working. The best option is an exterior outlet, but if you don’t have it, a garage outlet is the second option. If there is no outlet in your garage, then extension cords will be used, and they are going to run through the door or window to get power outside. You should choose an outlet in an area that doesn’t get much foot traffic because extension cords can trip people.
8. Removing antennas or satellite dishes
If there are antennas or satellite dishes on or near the roof, you need to remove them. Give your satellite or cable provider a call before the project so they can make arrangements before the work starts. If it is an old unit you are no longer using, the contractor will remove and dispose the unit.
9. Talking to your neighbors
You should let the neighbors know there is work being done on your house. You should also give them an estimate of how long it is going to take. They are going to be thankful because it gives them the chance of adjusting their schedules and situation so they can be comfortable during the project.
10. Being aware of the surroundings during the project
There will be unexpected obstacles during construction. The construction equipment and extension cords that are usually not there can create some opportunities for you to hurt yourself. This is why it is important to be alert during the project so you can avoid getting hurt.
It is very important to be in constant communication with the roofer during the roof installation project. You should ask them whether there are any suggestions they have to make the project smoother for both your family and the roofing crew.
Keep in mind the inconvenience caused by the project is temporary. You will be able to have the roof you have been waiting for.
Do you need new roofing?
If you are looking for a new roof for your home, you should work with roofers you can trust so that you will have some peace of mind during the process. Contact Ultimate Roofing or visit our website so you will be able to get a free in-home consultation where any concerns or questions will be addressed.
