6 Tips For A Smooth New Roof Installation

Before beginning your roof installation, a professional roofing contractor will complete a thorough inspection of your home, including the interior, exterior and any attic or storage area. There are several reasons for these visual inspections. First, any good home contractor will make the safety of you and your family paramount. Second, contractors want to be aware of any other issues with your home that might affect a roofing system installation. Third, confirming your home is in good working order and everything is ready for the roof installation means you will be more satisfied and confident in your finished roofing project.

1.  Improper or Illegal Electrical Wiring
Sometimes, electrical wires not visible from living spaces or attic areas are only found after an old roof has been removed. A sub-par or new-to-roofing contractor may not notice this or bring it to your attention, deciding instead to work around it. The danger in this is that any roofing work that is done could penetrate the wire’s insulation, trigger a short circuit and possibly a fire. Illegal or damaged wiring presents a fire hazard, and an experienced, knowledgeable, professional roofing contractor will review any concerns with you so that you can choose a course of action that makes sense.

2.  Carbon Monoxide Cautions
If you do not already own a carbon monoxide detector, you should purchase one. If you already have one, be sure to check the batteries and ensure it is operational. A working carbon monoxide detector is a critical part of a safe roofing installation. During the installation process a professional crew will take every precaution available, but it is still possible for exhaust vents to shift or dislodge which could in turn cause a carbon monoxide leak. It is critical that the homeowner conduct a daily visual inspection of these vents as a safeguard.

3.  Circuit Breakers
A professional roofing crew uses power tools and air compressors during your roofing project. Thus, they need to have access to electrical outlets. Often the garage circuits are the ones your roofers will make use of, but it is still possible that areas within your home might be on the same circuit. To avoid spoiled food or damaged computer equipment, take precautions with any sustained electrical devices. Likewise, make sure your roofing contractor has reliable contact information so that you can be contacted if a circuit breaker is tripped or if there are any other issues that need to be discussed.

4.  Exterior Home Protection 
An experienced contractor can avoid any major damage and minimize any minor damage to the exterior of your home. A quality roofing contractor will take precautions like covering heating and cooling units, covering windows and designating a debris area to prevent damage to your yard. Likewise, a good installer will take steps to prevent gutter damage including using attachments to prevent their ladders from resting on your home’s gutters causing dents and scratches. An expert roofing installer knows how to avoid problems before they begin with best practices that most sub-standard contractors ignore.

5.  Landscaping & Watering Systems
A professional roofing crew will take care to avoid disturbing your landscaping. To protect your lawn from the damage of people walking back and forth, it is wise to avoid watering and turn off any sprinklers a day or so before the installation begins. If you mow your lawn close to the beginning of the installation, it will make it easier for your installers to clean up any debris or materials in the grass. Likewise, overgrown trees can cause premature wear and tear on your roof. They also make installation more difficult and dangerous. If your trees require pruning, it is wise to do so prior to your roofing system installation.

6.  Pools, Spas & Hot Tubs
Pools, spas and hot tubs can be damaged by roofing debris. To protect the look and functioning of your outdoor water features, a trusted roofing contractor will tarp your pool, spa or hot tub with poly propylene before the beginning of the installation. Even with this precaution, small amounts of debris like sawdust may make their way in during excessive winds, so you may want to turn off your pumps during your installation. Be mindful that a tarped water feature presents another child-hazard and monitor your children accordingly.

Windows on Washington is committed to providing their customers with a smooth and easy roof installation.  Please let us know if you have any questions about your installation or roofing project we are always willing to help.  We can be reached by email at info@windowsonwashignton.net, by phone at 703-378-1190 or simply by clicking the link below.