How to Prepare for a Roof Replacement: What Every Homeowner Should Know
So, you’ve done your homework—researching and interviewing local roofing contractors, checking references and reviews, and finally choosing the right pro for the job. You’ve scheduled the installation date. Now what?
Even though most roof replacements are completed in just a day or two, proper preparation is key to a safe and stress-free experience. Your roofing contractor will handle the heavy lifting, but there are a few important things you can do to prepare your home and family. Here’s your complete guide to getting ready.
Start with Your Local Roofing Contractor
Your contractor is the best source of guidance. Every home is different, and they’ll let you know what specific precautions to take based on your roof’s size, materials, and setup.
Before installation day, be sure to ask questions like:
How do you ensure crew safety during the job?
Is your team OSHA-certified?
Do you follow specific procedures to protect landscaping and property?
What safety measures should I be aware of as the homeowner?
Understanding what your contractor is responsible for helps you know where your job begins—and how to support a smooth project.
How to Prepare the Exterior of Your Home
Clear the Driveway
Move all vehicles out of the driveway and away from the house. Your contractor may need to park a dump trailer or place equipment nearby. This protects your cars and ensures the crew can work efficiently.
Trim Trees and Landscaping
Overgrown branches can interfere with your roofing crew and equipment. Trim back trees and shrubs close to your home. A freshly mowed lawn can also make it easier for the crew to find and clean up fallen nails or debris.
Protect Outdoor Items
Remove or cover patio furniture, potted plants, grills, toys, and other outdoor items. Most roofers will use tarps to protect landscaping, but taking extra steps helps safeguard your belongings.
Provide Electrical Access
Roofers often need to plug in power tools. Make sure outdoor outlets are available and functional. If none are available, plan to run an extension cord from inside the house.
Prepare the Interior of Your Home
Secure Wall Hangings and Valuables
Roofing can cause vibrations, especially on upper floors. Take down fragile wall hangings, secure loose shelves, and move valuable items away from affected areas.
Cover Attic Storage
Roofing work can stir up dust and debris in the attic. Cover stored items with plastic or tarps to keep them clean and protected—especially if you’re storing sentimental or valuable belongings.
What to Expect During the Roofing Installation
Prepare for Noise and Activity
Roofing is loud, and there will be constant movement. If you work from home, consider scheduling off-site meetings or working remotely for the day. Children and pets may be sensitive to noise—consider relocating them temporarily for comfort and safety.
Coordinate with the Crew Leader
Most roofing contractors assign a crew leader to oversee the job. They’re your go-to contact for questions, updates, or concerns. Let them know if you’ll be leaving the house during the project and confirm how to reach them.
After the Job: Final Walkthrough and Checklist
Before your contractor leaves, take time to walk through the completed project with them. Here’s what to check:
Roof Appearance & Work Quality
Inspect the overall look—check for loose shingles, sagging areas, exposed nails, or anything that looks out of place. Pay attention to roof valleys, flashing, and ridge caps.
Gutters and Drainage
Ensure all gutters and downspouts are reattached, clear of debris, and draining properly. Run a hose through them to confirm water flows away from your foundation.
Thorough Cleanup
A good contractor will leave your property spotless. Make sure all shingles, nails, packaging, and tools have been cleared. Ask if they’ve done a magnetic sweep of the yard to pick up stray nails—this is a must for safety.
Ventilation and Attic Work
If your roof replacement included ventilation upgrades (like an attic fan or ridge vent), test these systems to confirm they’re operating correctly.
Review the Warranty
Before the crew leaves, ask for documentation of your roof’s material warranty and workmanship guarantee. Make sure you understand what’s covered and how to make a claim if needed.
Why Choose Pro-Home Services for Your Roof Replacement?
At Pro-Home Services, we’ve spent over 20 years earning homeowners’ trust with top-quality roofing installations. We use only premium roofing materials and back our work with a separate workmanship warranty—so you’re covered on all fronts.
Our team is local, experienced, and committed to treating your home as if it were our own. From prep to final cleanup, we prioritize safety, professionalism, and your peace of mind.
📞 Ready to schedule your roof replacement or inspection? Call us at 630-790-0800 for a free estimate today!