Upcoming roofing project? Read this homeowners checklist to learn what steps to take to make sure the interior and exterior of your home are protected during the project, plus topics to discuss with your contractor before and after to make sure the project goes off without a hitch. This minor participation by you will make the process easier for everyone.
Schedule Tasks in Advance
After you choose a roofing contractor, determine if work permits are required for your roofing project. Then, clarify if you or the contractor will obtain them. Put the permit process in motion right away so that there are no delays in your project timing.
It’s also important to schedule the removal and replacement of items such as satellite dishes and solar panels in advance so the service providers can coordinate these tasks around the timing of your roof project.
Connect With Your Contractor
At some point prior to work starting, your roofing contractor will need to know job site details. Be prepared to:
- Walk the perimeter of the house and point out areas for roofers to protect or avoid.
- Point out electrical outlets roofers can use for their power tools. If there are no available outdoor outlets, arrange for roofers to access power via an extension cord.
- Discuss what date the materials and dumpster (if required) will be dropped off and where they should be placed.
- Verify how additions to your rooftop—such as satellite dishes and solar panels—need to be managed and time frames for having them removed.
- Once materials have been delivered, verify that you received the correct shingle colours, brand, quality, etc.
Contractor Checklist
The roofers also perform prep work to make sure that your job goes well. connect with your contractor to make sure that they have confirmation of time and date for your job, know where to place tarps to protect your driveway and landscaping. Make sure that they protect your a/c unit as well as decks and patios areas.
Your Homeowners Exterior Checklist
Roofing involves a roofing crew, roofing materials, roof debris, and—very often—an onsite dumpster. It’s messy work, but the more you cover, clean, and protect, the more seamless the outcome will be. Follow this homeowners checklist for your exterior. Protect outdoor lighting, water features, yard art, birdhouses, etc. from falling roof debris that could damage delicate items.
- Move patio furniture, barbecue grills, and children’s toys away from the roof perimeter.
- Takedown flags, wind chimes, and other exterior home decorations.
- Mow the lawn. This increases the visibility of roofing debris that falls in your yard and makes for a more thorough cleanup from roofers.
- Mark sprinkler heads with orange tape or flags so that roofers don’t trip over them or damage your sprinkler system. Visibility benefits everyone!
- Take photos of your driveway and exterior in case of damage by roofing work or the dumpster.
- Cover flower beds and landscaping to keep roofing debris out and move potted plants. Mark especially delicate or expensive landscaping and notify roofers to take extra care around these areas.
- Move cars, bikes, etc. from inside the garage if the dumpster or roofing materials will block access to items you’ll need.
- Walk the perimeter of your home with your contractor. Make them aware of any exterior areas that may be more delicate than others.
For Your Homeowners Interior Checklist
While your roofers are working hard, walls vibrate and loud noises occur. Preventative measures keep everyone comfortable:
- Temporarily move and/or cover valuable items stored in the attic.
- Put a drop cloth on the attic floor for quick dust clean up. You can expect dust and debris to shake down onto the attic floor.
- Remove or secure TVs, mirrors, china cabinets, artwork, and other valuables attached to walls.
- Plan ahead for loud noises:
- If you work from home, consider alternative arrangements.
- Prepare to soothe pets and make daycare arrangements if your pet is sensitive to noises.
- Prepare kids for disruptive and loud noises—it might be a good time for the kids to visit friends or family.
- If staying offsite, be sure you remain in easy contact with the roofer in case of questions.
- Cover and protect valuables (cars, storage, etc.) in the garage. The lack of insulation in most garages increases the amount of dust and debris that falls in the garage during the roofing project.
After the Project
Once the roofing project is complete and contractor cleanup has occurred, make sure you’re satisfied with the job and that you have all the necessary paperwork for your warranty. By completing a final inspection with your contractor and ensuring your warranty is in place will help you enjoy your investment for years to come:
We hope that you’ve enjoyed this article. For more interesting reads on this topic – follow this link.
Written By: Jane Laker
Photo Credit: Veronika Kovecses
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