Owning a home often comes with a list of responsibilities, and home maintenance can often feel like a full-time job. One of the most significant and often costly projects you'll face as a homeowner is a roof replacement. Given that roofs endure harsh weather conditions and wear and tear over time, it’s no wonder they need replacing eventually!
Many seasoned homeowners have a few tricks up their sleeves for ensuring a smooth roofing project, but if this is your first roof replacement, you might be asking: Should I stay home during the roof replacement, or is it better to leave?
Well, dear reader, I’m glad you asked! Stick around while we break down the pros and cons of staying home during a roof replacement. Whether you decide to stay or temporarily relocate, we’ll provide tips to help minimize stress and ensure your roof replacement project goes smoothly. Let’s get started!
To Stay or Not to Stay: What’s the Best Move?
When it comes to staying home during a roof replacement, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on your personal preferences and situation. Some homeowners prefer to stick around to keep an eye on the work, while others can’t stand the noise and choose to get out of the house until the job is done. Either way, it’s essential to be prepared for what’s to come.
If you decide to stay, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Let’s go over some practical tips to help you through the process.
Prepare for the Noise
One of the most disruptive aspects of a roof replacement is the noise. The hammering, scraping, and general construction sounds can make it hard to focus on anything else. If you work from home or have young children or elderly family members, the constant noise can quickly become unbearable.
If you have a two-story home, the noise might be a bit more muted, but for those in single-story houses, it will feel like the hammering is happening right above your head... because it is. Don’t forget about your pets, either.
Many dogs and cats are sensitive to loud sounds, and the chaos might leave them stressed or anxious. To minimize the impact, consider finding a temporary home for your pets during the roofing project.
If you can handle the noise and are out of the house for work during the day, staying home may not be a problem. But if constant construction sounds are going to interfere with your daily life, it might be worth planning to be elsewhere.
Watch Out for Flying Debris
Roof replacements can be messy. As the old roof is torn off, debris like shingles, nails, and other materials will rain down. This creates potential hazards when entering or leaving your home. The workers up on the roof can’t always see what’s happening on the ground, so it’s up to you to stay safe.
Make sure to follow any designated walking paths, and avoid areas under gutters or roof edges where debris may be falling. It’s also crucial to warn any children in the household to avoid playing near the construction zone.
By staying in touch with your roofing contractor, you can arrange for pauses in the work when you need to come and go. Many contractors are more than willing to accommodate these requests, and if you’re comfortable with this level of communication, staying home during the project might not be too inconvenient.
Protect Your Landscaping and Outdoor Furniture
Your roof replacement might also affect your landscaping. Falling debris can damage flowerbeds, lawns, patio furniture, and even your swimming pool. If you’re proud of your yard, you’ll want to take steps to protect it.
One effective solution is to request that your contractor use an angled tarp to cover vulnerable areas like flowerbeds or pools. While many contractors take precautions to minimize damage, it’s always a good idea to clarify your expectations upfront. If you choose to stay home, you can keep an eye on the process and make sure everything is protected.
Parking Might Be an Issue
Roofing crews often park their vehicles in the driveway for easy access to tools and materials. This can create parking headaches if you have multiple cars or need to come and go throughout the day. Before work begins, discuss parking logistics with your contractor.
They may be able to park elsewhere, or you may need to move your vehicles to avoid being blocked in. This is another reason why clear communication with your roofing contractor is so important — a little coordination can go a long way in preventing unnecessary delays or frustrations.
Consider the Length of the Project
Another factor to consider is the length of time your roof replacement will take. For a standard residential shingle roof, the job may only take one to three days, assuming your home is of average size. However, more complex roofing systems, such as standing seam metal or Spanish tile, can take several weeks or even months to complete.
Before making any decisions about staying or leaving, ask your contractor for an estimated timeline. If the project will take more than a few days, it might be worth planning a temporary relocation to avoid the constant disruption.
The Benefits of Staying Home
If you’re someone who likes to be in the know and oversee home improvement projects, staying home might be the right choice for you. Being on-site means you can communicate directly with your contractor, stay updated on the progress, and address any issues that arise in real time.
You’ll also have the opportunity to inspect the work as it happens, giving you peace of mind that your investment is being well taken care of. For homeowners who are detail-oriented and want to make sure everything is going according to plan, staying home can be beneficial.
The Benefits of Leaving
On the other hand, if you’re sensitive to noise or simply don’t want to deal with the chaos of construction, leaving during the roof replacement is a valid option. Most roofing contractors are professional, experienced, and capable of completing the job without needing you to be on-site.
By leaving, you can avoid the inconvenience of the noise, mess, and constant interruptions. Once the project is complete, you’ll return to a brand-new roof without having to deal with the stress of living through the construction process.
Making the Right Decision for You
Ultimately, the choice to stay home or leave during a roof replacement is a personal one. There’s no right or wrong answer, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. If you decide to stay, prepare for the noise and take steps to protect your home and landscaping. If you choose to leave, make sure to establish clear communication with your contractor to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Before you make your decision, consult with your roofing contractor to get their opinion. They can provide valuable insight into what to expect during the process and help you make the best choice for your situation.
Next, check out our guide on "The 9-Step Process of Your Roof Replacement" to understand what each stage entails. You can also explore our other resources in the learning center below to ensure you’re fully prepared for your roofing project.
