Keeping the roof over your head in good shape through the years takes effort. To perform as expected, all roofing systems require periodic maintenance and repair. Without the proper attention, roofs will succumb to wear and tear more quickly, requiring premature replacement.
Need to invest in roof repair or replacement? This is a big undertaking, but with the right preparation you can ensure a smooth and successful project. Here are seven tips to help you get ready:
1. Determine the Scope of the Project
First, start with a detailed project scope. A thorough plan allows you to understand all the moving parts of the installation or repair and helps the contractor write up an accurate estimate. Failure to include an item can potentially delay the project, or worse, adversely affect the system performance. Be sure to go over the crucial details with the contractor before kick-starting the project. These include the exact work to be performed, safety rules and standards to be followed on-site, and the warranty coverage. Depending on the complexity of the job, you should plan regular meetings with the contractor or project manager so you can address any hiccups along the way or change orders that might be needed.
2. Choose a Local Roofer
You need to exercise a keen sense of judgment when searching for a contractor that possesses all the necessary qualifications. It’s a good idea to limit your search to roofing companies from your local area. Local roofers have a better grasp of the challenges, specifically the weather elements and conditions, that your residential or commercial roof has to endure on a day-to-day basis. Also, local roofing contractors typically have in-depth knowledge of all the local building codes and regulations, along with any permits that need to be obtained before the work can begin. This will help the project run more smoothly.
Be sure to check the track record of the roofing contractor you are considering. Do a quick online search to check their BBB rating and read testimonials from past clients. Visit their website and see if there are photos of completed jobs similar to yours. Finally, during the initial appointment with the roofer, inquire about their business-related licenses, certifications, insurance policies and other pertinent credentials that will put your mind at ease.
3. Select the Right Roofing Material
What material should you choose for your roof replacement? Your choice of material will have a huge impact on the appearance, weather protection and energy efficiency of your new roof. When making your selection, consider your overall budget as well as your aesthetic preferences.
Asphalt shingle roofing is the most popular choice for North American homes, thanks to their affordability and excellent performance. When properly vented and maintained, an asphalt shingle roof can last about 15 to 30 years. If you want to make longer-term investment, natural slate, concrete tiles and metal roofing are excellent choices. All of these have superior durability and can last for 50 to 100 years, but they do cost more to install than asphalt shingles.
If your current roof is past its shelf life, it may be time to switch to a new material that is more technologically advanced and energy-efficient. If you want to upgrade your roofing but are unsure about which material best fits the needs of your home or business, consult an experienced roofing contractor to assist you in finding the right roof.
4. Anticipate the Weather
You can’t control the weather, but you can look at the forecast and schedule your project at a time when the weather should be amenable to roofing. A reliable contractor may rearrange start times and work days based on temperature conditions and extended forecasts. Failing to take the weather into account can lead to serious setbacks, unsafe work conditions or water-related damage to the structure of your roof. Fortunately, with a little planning and flexibility, you can smoothly manage anything Mother Nature tosses your way.
5. Prepare the Site
Whether you are a homeowner or a facility manager, strike up a conversation with the roofing contractor about the expectations you may have in terms of housekeeping. A clean and orderly site contributes to the safety of the work environment and helps you stay on top of your day-to-day functions. If you own a business that has to continue operating during the installation, you’ll need to take steps to ensure your employees, customers and other building occupants are safe and not too disturbed. Roofing is messy and noisy, so be sure to give any building occupants a heads up before the work begins.
You also need to know where dumpsters or container bins will be located and how waste and other debris will be disposed of during the installation. You should also inquire about the contractor’s plan to protect your gutters, lawn, patio furniture and other outdoor equipment or valuables. Lost fasteners and nails around the worksite can result in property damage or personal injury, especially near walkways or parking areas.
6. Prioritize Safety
A facility manager should consider jobsite safety a top priority. It is crucial that you see eye to eye with your contractor on safety regulations, including the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and state guidelines. Contractors are also required to implement a safety policy and provide safety equipment for the roofing crew. Cutting corners on safety procedures should never be permitted.
It is also important to understand your roofing contractor’s general liability insurance policy as it provides coverage for claims involving bodily injuries and property damage. After all, no property owner wants to be held accountable for any liability that the contractor is responsible for.
7. Perform a Final Walk-Through
After the roof repair or replacement is complete, it’s time for you to evaluate the quality of the job done. It is vital that you inspect the work with the contractor before signing off on the project and making the final payment. In most cases, there is a punch list, defined as the listing of items requiring immediate attention, that needs to be reviewed after the work is complete. Withholding a small percentage of the payment can help ensure that the tasks in the punch list will be accomplished.
Finally, make sure all refuse materials and debris are cleaned up, tools collected and dumpsters removed. If there are any outstanding issues, have them addressed immediately. Don’t forget to acquire the relevant documents from the roofing company. These include product information and material and labor warranties. Keep a record of all your roofing documents for future reference.
Call Us for All Your Professional Roofing Needs!
Whether you need roof replacement, emergency storm damage repair, or roof maintenance, our top-rated roofers at Sterling Exteriors can successfully deliver the excellent result you expect. Join our list of satisfied customers. You can fill out our convenient contact form or give us a call at (513) 322-4777 and we will schedule a time to meet with you for a free, no-obligation quote. We proudly serve residents and business owners in Cincinnati, Newtown and Loveland, OH.