Depending on your roofing material, the average roof is built to last about 25 years.
If your roof is approaching that age, and you’ve had your share of repairs and issues in the past, it may be time for a roof replacement.
If you have shingles that are buckling, curling or missing, or if your roof seems to be sagging, it’s probably time for a new roof.
If these types of roof issues go unattended, you may end up with major consequences to the structure of your home.
But a new roof is a big investment, and one that you should put careful thought into.
Today we will help walk you through how to find a company that’s right for the job, and give you the steps you need to prepare your home and yard for your new roof.
Find A Roofing Company That You Can Trust
Not all roofing companies are created equal.
Here at Hollister Roofing, Inc. we specialize in roof repair services, new roof replacement, attic insulation, and gutter installation.
Our hard work and dedication to roofing services has resulted in our business being voted the Best Roofing Contractor in San Benito County from 2009 – 2013.
We help our clients select the roofing material that are right for them, we ensure that each home has a sound gutter guard and venting system in place, and we are licensed, fully bonded, and insured.
We have great respect for your home, and we do our best to make sure our job site is cleaned thoroughly after each roof replacement.
Once you have settled on the roofing experts you intend to hire, there are a few things that you’ll want to do to make sure your home is prepared for the actual install.
Move Outdoor Items Away From The Work Zone
Vehicles, grills, patio furniture, and bikes, should all be moved to a safe location where loose nails, and falling shingles can’t cause any damage.
A good roofing company will be mindful of your home, and do their best to clean the job site thoroughly after completion, but you can help by making sure all of your belongings are moved to a better spot.
Take Down Breakable Objects And Wall Decor
Because of the excessive banging and pounding that’s required during a roof install, objects on your wall and shelves may fall and break.
Walk through your home and take down all wall hangings, and remove breakable china, glass, or other fragile items from shelves.
Cover Or Remove Belongings In Your Attic
When the roofers are pounding away, a lot of dirt and dust will shake loose in your attic.
If you use your attic for storage, this can create a big mess that’s a headache to clean.
We recommend our clients move valuables out of the attic, and at the very least, cover the belongings that remain with tarps or painters cloths for an easier cleanup.
Check For Outdoor Electrical Outlets
When your roofers arrive, they’ll need access to your outdoor outlets.
Taking the time to check for the location of your outlets, and to ensure they are working before the crew arrives is always appreciated.
Keep Children And Pets Indoors Or Off Of The Property
A new roof install can be exciting – but trust us when we say that hours of banging overhead will eventually drive you crazy.
Naps will be interrupted and pets may be stressed. If you can’t leave the house for the day, it’s imperative that you keep your family indoors and away from the dangers of the work zone.
But if possible, we recommend getting out for the day and saving yourself a migraine.
Perform An Annual Inspection
Inspecting and cleaning your new roof periodically is the best thing you can do to maintain it.
Here are the main things to look out for during your inspection according to Angie’s List,
“Check the attic or other interior ceiling for stains that can indicate water is seeping into your home.
Then examine the roof for missing, lifted or loose shingles and check the rest of the shingles for moss and mold, worn spots denoted by missing granules, cracks, peeling and curling.
Additionally, check for missing or loose flashing, nails and metal roof bolts. Replace and repair shingles or flashing and replace or tighten roof hardware as needed.
Peeling, curling and partially lifted shingles found in more than one area of the roof can indicate that the roof is at the end of its usability.
If you don’t have experience with roof replacement and you see this level of damage, hire a professional roofer to determine if the roof needs more than do-it-yourself maintenance.”
Your roofing professional can also help clean your roof, check your flashing and gutters, replace any missing shingles and make minor repairs before they get out of hand every year.