Let’s face it — getting your roof replaced is not only an expensive process, it’s a time-consuming one, taking anywhere from 2 days to weeks.
As a homeowner, it’s common to wonder if you should stick around during a roof replacement or stay somewhere. It’s a reasonable concern since, after all, it’s not every day your roof is being taken off and rebuilt.
Whether you decide to stay or not, depends on several factors, and at A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing, we’ve seen it all. Some homeowners prefer to stay close during the process, while others can’t wait to find somewhere quieter. Today we talk about both sides so that you can decide for yourself.
What Happens During A Roof Replacement?
Before deciding whether to stay or leave, it’s helpful to know what actually happens during a roof replacement. Here’s the short version:
- Tearing Off the Old Roof: The crew removes the existing shingles, underlayment, and other roofing materials. This part can be loud and messy.
- Installing the New Roof: From underlayment to shingles, your new roof comes together. Expect hammering, drilling, and plenty of movement on top of the house.
- Equipment and Debris: Dumpsters, ladders, and tools will be on-site, and materials might need to be moved through parts of your yard.
It’s not a quiet, tidy process — but it’s efficient, especially when you hire a high-performing team of roofers like ours. On average, most residential roof replacements are completed within 2 to 4 days, depending on the size of the home and weather conditions.
Why Should You Stay At Home During A Roof Replacement?
Now, let’s look at the benefits that come with staying at home during a roof replacement. Here is what you get when you choose to stay at home:
Supervision and Complete Peace of Mind
Staying home allows you to oversee the project firsthand. You’ll have a front-row seat to the entire roofing process, allowing you to monitor every detail and address any questions or concerns directly with the crew. If you’re someone who thrives on being in the know, being physically present transforms uncertainty into confidence.
Accessibility
If you stay home during the roofing project you’ll be instantly available to provide critical access to key areas of your home — whether that’s the attic, power outlets, or specific storage spaces. Imagine the efficiency of answering a quick question in real-time, versus a game of phone tag that could slow down the entire operation.
More Flexibility
For those who can embrace a bit of background noise, being home during the roofing process becomes an unexpected opportunity for productivity. While skilled professionals transform your roof, you can simultaneously tackle indoor tasks with surprising ease. Catch up on organizing that stack of paperwork, complete some work tasks, or even enjoy a movie with noise-canceling headphones while your home receives its critical upgrade.
Potential Savings
Choosing to stay at home can lead to significant financial benefits, allowing you to sidestep various expenses that often accumulate during outings. For example, you can avoid the cost of hiring a pet sitter to care for your furry friends while you’re out, eliminating that added financial burden. Additionally, if you have children, you won’t need to arrange alternative childcare, which can be both expensive and logistically challenging.
Cons of Staying Home During A Roof Replacement
Though it’s your home and you are absolutely allowed to stay on your property, roofers generally don’t recommend staying inside during a roof replacement because of the following reasons:
Noise Levels
There’s no sugarcoating this: roof replacements are LOUD. The sound of hammering, drilling, and footsteps on the roof can be hard to ignore. Kids and pets can be sensitive to loud noises and the commotion might make them anxious or disrupt their routines.
So, if you work from home, have small children, or just value peace and quiet, the noise can be quite disruptive.
Safety Concerns
Safety is always a top priority, but roof replacements involve falling debris, ladders, and heavy equipment. Workers are trained to avoid accidents, but staying home means you’ll need to be extra cautious about where you walk and how you move around. Outdoor spaces like driveways and patios may be temporarily off-limits.
Dust and Vibration
A roof replacement also involves tearing off the old roofing materials. This process is the most dust-prone. The vibrations and debris can cause you discomfort even inside your house.
Stress and Discomfort
Let’s be honest, having a crew of workers on your property can be a bit stressful, even when they’re highly professional. Between the noise, restricted movement, and general disruption, you might find it more comfortable to leave until the job is done.
Use the opportunity to visit family, enjoy a day out, or book a relaxing stay somewhere else.
How To Prepare Your Home Before The Roof Replacement Project
Whether you decide to stay at your home or move out during a roof replacement, there are certain steps that you need to take. This is to ensure that while your roof is being prepared, other areas of your home stay safe.
Secure Fragile Items
Vibrations from roofing work can shake walls and shelves. Take down fragile items, like picture frames, mirrors, or decorative pieces, to prevent accidents. Store these items in a safe, enclosed space to reduce the risk of damage during the project.
Protect Furniture and Belongings
Cover furniture in attics or upper floors to protect it from dust. If workers need access to certain rooms, clear the area to make things easier. You might want to consider using plastic sheeting or old blankets to cover furniture for easy cleanup afterward.
Create a Safe Space for Pets and Kids
If you’re staying home, keep pets and children in a quiet, safe area away from the work zones. If noise is a concern, consider sending pets to a friend’s house or daycare.
Make sure to provide food, water, and entertainment to keep pets and children occupied during the day.
Plan Your Day
If you’re leaving, let the roofing crew know how to contact you in case of questions. Leave a phone number and communicate any special instructions beforehand. Ensure your phone is charged and within reach in case the crew needs quick access or clarification.
How Can We Help With Your Roof Replacement Project?
Replacing your roof is a huge investment, but the safety of your property depends on it. That’s why it’s important to hire professionals who are extremely experienced, like our time at A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing.
We have replaced many roofs in the Oklahoma region and use the best roofing materials. With us, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re working with a knowledge team. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to learn more about what we can do for you!
