A new roof installation is a major project, and any major home repair project can cause a bit of stress. Although most roofing materials only need to be replaced every 30 years or so, many people buying homes in the Sarasota area are finding themselves at that point.
If you are staring down a new roof installation, here are some tips from the experts to keep your cool and make the whole experience as stress-free as possible.
New Roof Installation? Try these Tips
The need for a new roof rarely sneaks up on someone. Unless there is a major storm which causes sudden catastrophic damage, you likely have had many indications that a roof replacement will be needed within the next several years. You may know this simply because of the age of the roof. The roof’s condition may have been revealed during a home inspection. Perhaps you have been doing minor roof repairs hoping to delay the inevitable.
If you have several months to prepare for your new roof installation, call your insurance company to determine how much (if any) of the roof replacement will be covered. If the roof is simply old, chances are excellent that you may be responsible for the entire cost of the roof project. Call a local roofing contractor and get a roofing estimate, and begin to set the money aside for the installation.
- Set Money Aside: As stated above, begin to prepare financially before the roof installation becomes an emergency.
- Hire the Right Company: You need to be sure to hire a licensed and insured, reputable local roofing company. Be sure to read more about hiring the right roofing contractor here.
- Understand the Project: Be sure that you read the contract carefully, understand the terms of the agreement, and ask as many questions as you need to. You will want to understand if there is a possibility of additional expense, project delays, or snags in the process.
- Schedule at a Good Time: No matter how professional the roofer, the job is likely to be noisy and dusty. Be sure that you are not scheduling your roof installation during a family visit, or if you are hoping to throw your child a birthday party.
- Give Some Slack: Remember that the roofing company is working per project, and they are not motivated to delay your project. However, a new roofing installation may run into delays, generally related to rainy weather. Allow for some leeway in your plans, just in case.
- Plan your Day: Once it is time for your roofing company to show up, plan your day accordingly. Expect the noise overhead – decide to work at a coffee shop, or take the kids to visit grandma. Getting frustrated because the baby can’t sleep is unnecessary stress, and making other plans is a smart way to approach the project.
- Move Cars and Other Property: It is likely that debris will fly and dirt and dust will settle below. Move your cars down the street (or into the garage) while the workmen are on your roof, and cover or protect other personal items such as patio furniture, plants and landscaping, or lawn décor.
- Have Contact Information: Be sure to have a phone number of someone you can call with any questions as the project is progressing. The men onsite may not have answers to your questions.
If you know that your roof is going to need replacement, a little planning goes a long way. Begin to save up, get estimates, and schedule an appointment with Avery Roof Services – and face your Sarasota roof replacement with confidence.