Replacing your roof is a major investment. It enhances your home’s safety, comfort, and overall appearance. However, as with any large project, it has potential challenges. Understanding the common issues during a roof replacement can help you plan, communicate clearly with your contractors, and achieve a smooth and successful project. This post highlights five typical obstacles you might face during a roof replacement and offers practical advice on handling them effectively.
Failing to Anticipate Bad Weather
During a roof replacement, your roof’s decking becomes exposed after the old materials are removed and before the underlayment is applied. If an unexpected rain shower occurs and your contractor isn’t ready, it could lead to serious water damage inside your home.
To prevent this, roofers should always have a tarp on hand to protect the roof in case of rain, regardless of the forecast. Ideally, contractors would also check the weather conditions on the day of the replacement to decide if it’s safe to expose the roof. While unexpected rain might slow the project slightly, a prepared and attentive roofing contractor will protect your home.
Property Damage
A reliable roofing contractor should take the necessary steps to safeguard the main parts of a roof throughout the replacement process, before, during, and after the work. However, accidents can still happen, and your home or surrounding areas might face unintended damage from falling debris.
This could include issues like accidentally running over sprinkler heads, harming the landscaping or shrubs near your home’s foundation, or having a light fixture broken by a loose shingle. If you’ve hired a trustworthy roofing contractor, they will typically handle the repairs or cover the costs to resolve the problem.
That said, be cautious. Some companies include clauses in the fine print of their estimates stating they won’t be responsible for property damage caused during the roof replacement. Always take the time to thoroughly read through a roofing estimate before agreeing to it.
Vehicles Being Obstructed During the Roof Replacement
On the day your roof is being replaced, move your vehicles out of the driveway or garage ahead of time. This prevents them from getting blocked in. If the vehicles stay put or the contractor forgets to mention it, work must pause to give you access.
The crew must clean the area, check the driveway for nails, and clear everything before resetting their equipment. Depending on your home’s size and the team, this process could take 20 minutes or longer. To avoid delays, move your vehicles the night before the replacement begins or have an alternative plan in case you need to leave.
Voided Warranties
A warranty holds no value if your roofer fails to adhere to the shingle manufacturer’s installation guidelines. Deviating from these approved methods can result in your warranty being voided. Here are examples of what might void your warranty:
- Starter shingles not being installed
- Using nails that don’t meet requirements
- Skipping the use of an ice and water shield
- Improper application of flashing or omitting it altogether
Oil Stains On Your Driveway
Plenty of equipment and heavy machinery will be on your property during your roof replacement. These should remain on paved areas to avoid any risk of damaging structures beneath the surface.
Vehicles or machinery might leave oil stains on your driveway or other paved spots. To prevent this, your roofing contractor should place protective materials under their vehicles or equipment to catch any dripping oil.
Endnote
By avoiding common pitfalls, you can ensure your roof replacement project is successful and beneficial, adding lasting value and durability to your home. Selecting a skilled and reliable roofing contractor is key to achieving a roof that is not only long-lasting but also enhances the overall appearance of your property.
