Should I Stay Home During a Roof Replacement?

Now that you’ve decided to replace your roof, you’re probably wondering about the process. Maybe you’re asking yourself, “Should I go visit my parents? Should I stay at a hotel? Or should I stay home during a roof replacement?”

Most of the time when you’re doing home renovations, it’s advisable to steer clear while the work is being done. But what about the roof? Technically, work isn’t being done inside, so do you have to go?

The short answer is: only if you want to. There can be some upheaval—noise, lots of activity, and dangerous construction materials—during a residential roof replacement, but being prepared for all that it entails can make the process go smoothly.

Roof Replacement Process

The roof replacement process begins with an inspection and estimate and ends with the final installation of your new roof. What happens in between can depend on the roofing company and the roofing materials you’ve chosen. These factors may affect your decision to stay home during the process.

Erie Home typically completes a new roof installation in just one day, and our expertly trained team works with you to ensure your mind is at ease during the entire process.

A couple of things to consider before replacing your roof:

• Material – A total roof replacement, which includes removing the old roof and making any necessary repairs could make more noise, take longer, and create more activity around your home than if you opt for an overlay. An overlay involves placing new roofing over old roofing material, but it comes with a few downsides and is not typically recommended.
• Weather – Obviously, the weather needs to be nice for a roof replacement. Asphalt shingle roofs require warmer weather to properly seal, while metal roofs can be installed at any time of year, so long as there isn’t inclement weather during the installation.
  
  And a nice day may be a good time for you to take a day trip with your family while your home is being worked on. However, it’s not advisable to leave pets behind during the roof replacement process; the noise and unusual activity could cause anxious behavior.

Staying Home During a Roof Replacement

If you choose to stay home during a roof replacement, there are steps you can take to make it easier for everyone. Consider the following:

• Noise—If you think the extra noise will bother you or your family (pets included!), you can leave during the process. Alternatively, find the most soundproof room in the house and hunker down for a while.
• Access—It may seem obvious, but professional roofers will need access to your home, roof, and outdoor electrical outlets. You may need to be home to ensure they can get to the job. If you live in a gated community or require security code access to reach your home, then you may need to stick around to let the workers in.
• Credentials – You’re entrusting a roofing company to take care of your home by installing a new roof. The right roofing company will be licensed, insured, and bonded, which helps you rest easier knowing your home is in good hands.

Preparing for Roof Replacement

Whether you leave or stay home during a roof replacement, there are preparations to make inside and outside your house. Take care of the perimeter of your home to protect bushes, gardens, or permanent ornaments that could become damaged from falling roofing material. Remove lawn furniture and park your vehicles at a safe distance.

Also, don’t forget the inside of your home when you make your plans for roof replacement. Remove fragile items from walls or shelves in case of vibrations from the roof work. Secure the attic as well, if needed.

How Long Does Roof Replacement Take?

If it’s not the noise you’re wondering about, you might be wondering how long the process takes. Leaving your home during the roof replacement may be okay for one day, but what if it takes longer than that?

Though a roof replacement can take days to months to complete, it depends on the company you choose. Erie Home can complete most roof installations in one day, so it’s up to you if you stay during the process or take a day-cation and enjoy time away.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your roof can be daunting, but it shouldn’t cause you unnecessary stress or inconvenience. At Erie Home, our team of professional installers can get the job done quickly, safely, and with minimum fuss.

Contact us today at 1-800-998-8301 to learn more about the roof replacement process and to schedule a free evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How disruptive is replacing a roof?

Replacing a roof can cause some noise and extra activity. If you feel this may be disruptive to you and your family, make plans to stay away for the day.

Is getting a new roof messy?

Getting a new roof usually means removing the old one. The right roofing contractor will take precautions around your home to keep the mess to a minimum. You can help prepare your property to protect your belongings.

What is the best month to replace a roof?

If your house is getting a new asphalt shingle roof, the best time of year for the sealant to work is when the temperatures are around 70 degrees. However, if your house is being outfitted with metal shingles like those from Erie Home, they can be installed at any time of year.

What is the loudest part of roof replacement?

Roof replacement can get noisy from tearing off the old roof, which could involve scraping, to nailing down the new roof. Power tools or banging could get fairly loud if you’re right underneath the noise.

How long is a roof supposed to last?

The lifespan of a roof depends on the type of roofing, as well as other factors such as the climate and how well you keep up with maintenance. Depending on the type of asphalt shingles, an asphalt shingle roof can last anywhere from 10 to 40 years.

Traditional 3-tab asphalt shingles last for 10 to 20 years, and architectural shingles last from 20 to 30 years. Premium architectural shingles last the longest, from 25 to 40 years. However, metal roofs last even longer, up to 50 years.