Typical shingled roofs can last for 20 years or more, but when the time to replace the roof comes, it’s important to get the work done as soon as possible. Knowing what to expect during the process can help.
It’s a big job, but it gets done quickly. During the roof replacement, you can expect a few days of mild disruption to your daily routine. Your contractor should prepare you for this event by giving you a timeline, laying out the details of the project in the contract, and by telling you what you can do to prepare for the upgrade. Your roofing general contractor should also tell you what to expect before and after roof replacement.
Although it’s a labor-intensive process, replacing the roof on an average-sized, single-family home can be done in a day or two given the right circumstances. It may take a little longer for a large, complex project or if the weather doesn’t cooperate. In general, though, overlaying or completely replacing a roof on your Delaware home should not take more than a few days. It is not necessary that you be home during the project, but you certainly can be.
As a rule of thumb, the better the roofing company, the better your experience is going to be. It helps to know the best roofing companies in Delaware.
How to Prepare for a Roof Installation
Before committing to a roof installation, be sure you are not going to be the victim of a roofing scam. Find the right general roofing contractor! Here is what to expect when replacing a residential roof and what you can do to help the process go smoothly:
1. Prepare Your Lawn and Porch
While the project is underway, roofers are on your property and on your roof. Although they park a dumpster onsite for disposing of old materials, it’s typical for some debris, nails, and even old shingles to fall into your landscaping and outdoor space (but don’t worry, your roof building contractor will go through at the end to pick up any stray metals). Clear all toys, furniture, and equipment from your porch, yard, and garden. If you have plants that are especially fragile or require special care, let your roofing general contractor know so that they can lay down tarps over anything you want to protect.
2. Temporary Parking Changes
Since it may be difficult to access your garage or driveway during the project, please move your vehicles to the street or an alternative parking spot the night before the project begins. Plan to park them there when you return from work or running errands as well. If you can’t park in your street, you may need to make arrangements to park elsewhere. If you anticipate that your contractor will have difficulty parking on your property, tell them in advance.
3. Find Indoor Activities for Kids and Pets
Because your property is transformed into a job site, it’s best to keep your children and pets inside while the roofers are working. If you can, ask a friend or family member to keep your pets for the day, as the hammering and other noise may upset them. When children go outside to play in the evening, tell them to be cautious of debris and make sure they’re wearing sturdy, close-toed shoes.
4. Be a Good Neighbor
During your roof replacement, there is extra noise and disturbance. Out of respect for your neighbors, inform them ahead of time so they can plan accordingly. This is a great way to build goodwill among neighbors and show you recognize your roof replacement affects their life too.
5. Temporarily Remove Wall Hangings
Installing a brand-new roof causes the whole home to vibrate. To avoid problems, remove wall décor that is breakable or could be damaged, such as mirrors, pictures, loose shelving, and wreaths. You should also secure all windows. Ask your contractor if they anticipate any dust will affect your home’s interior, and if so, where.
6. Get Your Attic Ready
Your attic is likely to gather dust and debris during a roof replacement. If you have sentimental and fragile items stored in your attic, move them to a lower level during the project. Meanwhile, cover the furniture and other surfaces, including the floor, with tarps to make cleanup a breeze.
7. Do a Thorough Inspection
After the project is complete, your roofing team will let you inspect the new roof. You should take advantage of the opportunity while they’re still on site. Feel free to express any concerns or questions, as doing so now enables the team to address them right away.
8. Expect to Pay Out-of-Pocket
Most likely, your homeowner’s insurance policy only covers a roof replacement for your Delaware home if the damage was caused by a sudden accidental event or random act of nature. If you have to repair or replace a roof that’s gradually deteriorated because of neglect or normal wear-and-tear, prepare to pay out of pocket. In 2019, roof replacement costs in New Castle County ranged from about $6,184 to $7,948, which covers materials, labor, equipment, surface preparation, machinery, and cleanup.
Most roofing general contractor companies offer various financing plans to meet their customers’ budgeting needs, so be sure to ask your prospective companies if they offer financing. If possible, seek out an Owners Corning Preferred Roofing Contractor. The financial flexibility makes roofing replacement easy and manageable for many homeowners. Bromwell Construction is an Owners Corning Preferred Roofing contactor – ask us about it during your roofing consultation!
9. Seek Information About How to Maintain Your New Roof
New roofs don’t maintain themselves, so be prepared to engage in a little maintenance to keep your roof in good shape as it ages. One of the things that you’ll need to do regularly is to keep a clean roof. Your roof building contractor will likely supply you with some information about how often to clean your roof.
You don’t have to know how to clean a roof yourself, because you can hire a general roofing contractor to do it for you. If you’re happy with the work that your contractor does, talk to them about returning later in the year for a cleaning.
The Value of a Roof Replacement
Although there can be some small disruptions during a roof replacement, the benefits of a new roof are numerous and well-worth the mild inconvenience. Bromwell Construction will give you all the information you need to be well-prepared for the project and take precautions to protect your property and family while the work is underway.
Want an estimate for roofing services or roofing replacement? Call today. We service homeowners in Wilmington, North Wilmington, Greenville, Hockessin, Brandywine, Pike Creek, Newark, Bear, New Castle, Middletown, Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Bethany Beach, Ocean View, Smyrna, Dover, Landenburg, PA, Kennett Square, PA and Chadds Ford, PA. Want to know more about getting your roof replaced?
