Is your roof starting to leak? Maybe a tree crashed into it. The next storm could prove disastrous.
There are currently over 112,592 roofing contractors in the US. By calling for metal roof replacement, you can protect your home before the next storm. Otherwise, you could end up paying for home repairs.
Don't let a leak or flood add to your stress. Instead, make sure your home is ready for a new roof.
With this comprehensive checklist, you can make sure you have everything ready for your metal roof installation. Prepare yourself with these seven tips today!
1. Know the Signs It's Time
Metal roofing materials can cost between $8.00 and $15.00 per square foot. Before you hire a metal roofing company, make sure you need to. Learn the signs that it's time for metal roof replacement before getting estimates.
First, consider how old your roof is. When was the last time you called for metal roof installation? When was the last time someone made repairs?
When properly installed, a metal roof can last about 40 years. However, some roofs can fail due to installation hardware issues. You could spring a leak.
A properly installed roof is reinforced with an overlapping, interlocking pattern. Then, the panels are screwed into place. This method ensures there's a protective barrier between the elements and your home.
Proper installation will also keep moisture from getting into your home. Moisture can cause rot, mildew, and mold. If you notice these issues, call a metal roofing company right away.
External factors like extreme winds and storms can impact the longevity and durability of your roof. Hail and high-velocity debris can damage or dental the metal panels. A roofing company can inspect your roof to determine if it's safe.
Other signs of damage include:
Loose nails
Lifted fasteners
Leaks, gouges, punctures, or tears
Discoloration and rust
Corrosion
Improper flashing
Finish coming off the panels
If these issues sound familiar, call a metal roof replacement company right away.
2. Choose the Right Roofing Company
For proper help replacing a roof, make sure to choose an experienced, qualified company.
First, look for a roofer with plenty of experience. How long have they worked as a roofer? How long have they specialized in metal roofing?
If they don't have experience with metal roof sheets, scratch them off your list. Remember, you don't want to end up with an improperly installed roof.
You can confirm you've chosen the right business by asking for referrals and reviews.
Speak with someone who hired the roofing company for metal roof installation recently. What was their experience like? Did they hit any walls while working with the roofing company?
You can also find reviews on the company's Better Business Bureau and Google My Business listing.
What process does the roofing company use when installing metal roofs? What precautions will they take? Do they have worker's compensation for their team members?
You don't want the company to hold you accountable if there's an accident.
Don't choose a roofing company based solely on price. Instead, make sure they have the experience and expertise necessary for the job.
3. Ask How You Should Prepare
When replacing a roof, you'll need to prepare your home before the roofing team gets started. Ask your contractors if they have a checklist they want you to follow.
They can walk you through the process to make sure everything is ready when they arrive. Preparing your property beforehand will ensure a fast, stress-free process.
4. Protect Possessions
Take the time to remove any valuable possessions from your attic. You might want to have these possessions placed somewhere else until your new roof is installed. After all, you don't want anything to accidentally fall into your home.
Otherwise, grab plastic sheets and a tarp. Cover the rest of your possessions to ensure they're protected from dust and debris.
Covering your possessions ahead of time will make cleaning up easier later on.
Do you have any toys, grills, or nation furniture outside? Consider moving these items into a shed or the garage.
Do you have any fragile possessions or decorations inside? Tearing off an old roof and putting a new one in can cause vibrations to travel down the walls. Consider removing any decorations that you're hanging to ensure they don't fall.
5. Consider the Kids
Before installing your new metal roofing, have a plan for your family. The process is usually loud, which can cause stress for you, the kids, and your pets. You might want to schedule a day out for your family during the installation.
Otherwise, consider finding a stress-free place in your home where you can spend the day.
Talk to the neighbors as well. Let them know you have a roofing installation project scheduled for the year. They might want to spend the day out, too.
Letting your neighbors know about the roofing installation is a courtesy. Otherwise, you might disrupt their peaceful day.
6. Make Preparations Outside
Do you have any exterior outlets your metal roofing contractors can use? Look around your home and make sure you know where these are. If you don't have an exterior outlook, the contractors can run an extension cord through a window.
You might need to consider mowing and pruning your lawn the day before installation, too. Mowing the lawn will ensure fallen debris and nails have nowhere to hide.
If you have any big trees growing tear your roof, trim the branches beforehand. That way, your installation team has room to work.
7. Move Your Vehicles
The day of your installation, make sure your metal roofing contractors have somewhere to park. You might want to keep any vehicles off the driveway. That way, the contractors can easily access the tools and materials they need.
Your Metal Roof Replacement Checklist: How to Prepare Beforehand
Ready to get your metal roof replacement project started? Keep this comprehensive checklist handy! With these tips, you can prepare for a great day ahead.
Need to discuss your roofing project with a team of professionals? We're here to help.
Contact our metal roofing team today to discuss your next project.