A sturdy and reliable roof is critical for the safety and integrity of your home. It protects from the elements and contributes to overall energy efficiency. However, roofs do not last forever and may need replacement after years of enduring harsh weather conditions. Learn about signs that you need to replace your roof, how long the replacement takes, and if you should stay home during replacement.
Let’s find out more information about roof replacement and whether staying in the home through the process is a good idea.
Signs You May Need to Replace Your Roof
A roof can last for over 25 years, but sometimes there is damage due to mother nature and other issues that may occur. One of the signs that is common is frequent leaks and water damage. You may also find missing, cracked, or curling shingles or a sagging roof deck. Moss, mold, or fungi growth might be present and this could be an indicator of issues and worth checking out. Also, noticeable shingle granules in gutters may be a sign. Lastly, daylight is visible through the roofboards means there is light and moisture (and possibly pests) getting into the home.
How Long Does a Roof Replacement Take?
Typically, a roof replacement can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on factors such as the size of the roof, weather conditions, the complexity of the job, and the contractor’s schedule. A contractor may have several roofing jobs going on at one time so it will depend on how much crew is available and other factors as to the speed of completion. If it is after a weathermaker that caused the damage, it could be a few weeks to even a few months before the crew even starts the job.
Things to Take Care of Before the Roof Replacement Begins
Before the roof replacement begins, you want to take care of a few things around the home. This is because the sound is very loud and the house vibrates. Below are a few suggestions:
- Remove loose items from walls and shelves due to potential vibrations
- Clear the driveway and ensure easy access to the roof
- Protect your landscaping and garden areas
- Cover belongings in the attic
- Notify your neighbors about the upcoming work
Should I Stay Home During a Roof Replacement?
Staying home during the replacement can be beneficial as you can oversee the progress, but it’s not necessary. Contractors are capable of proceeding without the homeowner being present.
Why You Might Not Want to Stay Home During a Roof Replacement
Some homeowners like to be present during roof replacement, but there are some reasons why you might not want to be. One of those is noise. Roof replacement is a noisy process. Another reason is safety. For safety reasons, it’s better to keep a distance from the construction area. Lastly, discomfort. The presence of workers and equipment may cause inconvenience. These reasons are things to think about when deciding if you want to be at home or let the workers do their job and come back when they finish.
What Happens During the Roof Replacement Process?
There is a process of what happens during the roof replacement. Check out below the steps.
- Removal of old roofing materials
- Inspection and repair of the roof deck
- Installation of new underlayment and shingles
- Cleanup and disposal of debris
- Final inspection to ensure quality
Now that you know about the roofing process and why you might not want to stay home during the process, let’s learn more about roof maintenance.
One of those is painting roof tiles. You can do this to update the look of your home. Also, it will make the tiles look nice and shiny. However, it will also set you back about $2500 so it is something you want to think about.
Another is popcorn ceilings and asbestos. Many of the homes in the 1950s-1980s had popcorn ceilings and had asbestos. Not all popcorn ceilings did, but a majority did. If you have a house from this period, it is a good idea to have an inspection done. This is to ensure you are not creating health issues for your family.
Lastly, if you find moss on your roof, you will want to remove it. To do this, you will hose it off, use a cleaning solution, and add zinc strips. You will want to also find out what is causing the moss to grow.
When Do I Call a Professional?
You should call a professional roofer if you notice any signs of significant roof damage. Also, if your roof is beyond its expected lifespan. Lastly, call a professional after a severe weather event that could have damaged the roof. It may be a good idea to check out the roof, but for safety issues, you might not want to venture up there and contacting a professional is a good idea.
Conclusion
Roof replacement is a significant but essential investment in your home. Recognizing the signs that indicate the need for a new roof and understanding the process can help you prepare effectively. Always consult with a professional to ensure a safe and successful roof replacement. This is not a cheap project, so check with your insurance company, get estimates, and prepare for it to be possibly a long process. Once you decide to have your roof replaced, then it will be a great time to reach out to RedFish Inspections for a home inspection in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas.
