You've decided it's finally time to replace your aging roof. A proper roofing install can protect your home and increase its value. According to Roofing Contractor Magazine, there are over five million new roofs installed annually. Where do you start to prepare for that big roofing install project? Read on for some of the most important steps.

1. Research Roofing Companies Thoroughly

With such an essential home project like a roofing install, you want to take time to research potential contractors. Ask friends and neighbors if they can recommend roofers who did quality work. Search online reviews for roofing companies in your area. Once you have a short list of three to five options, check important details like licensing, insurance, warranties offered, and how long they've been in business locally. Meet with contractors to get quotes and gauge who seems most professional and personable. A rushed or pushy roofer is not someone you want to take on your roofing install job.

2. Remove Any Obstructions on the Roof

Well before the scheduled roofing install date, go outside and take a careful look at your roof. Note things like trees hanging near the roof, power lines drooping low over the house, and branches touching the roof. Alert the roofer about anything that looks like it could get in the way or be a potential hazard during a roofing install. If possible and needed, trim back any tree limbs or other items extending onto or close to the roof surface. This clears the area for roofers to work freely and safely during your upcoming roofing install.

3. Protect Landscaping Around the House

Look closely at the areas around your home's exterior where roofers will set up ladders, use noisy equipment, and move materials back and forth during the roofing installation. Especially note prized landscaping pieces like decorative plants or bird baths that could easily get broken or damaged with the roofing activity. Temporarily transplant flowers, small plants, or artifacts to a safe spot away from the house. It is always easier to preemptively move them than to try to repair or replace broken landscaping after roofing work wraps up.

4. Safeguard Valuables Inside the Home

The roofing install process is noisy, vibrates the structure, and kicks up lots of dust and debris inside a home if you are not careful. Before the contractors start tearing off your old roof, take time to safeguard your most valued belongings inside the house. For example, wrap fine art pieces in moving blankets or bubble wrap and store them in a closet to protect them from dust. Take down hanging light fixtures prone to vibration damage and place them carefully in sturdy boxes. Backup files on computers in case of electrical surges when power tools get plugged in. Put away fragile decor items that could fall and shatter. A few hours spent on precautions now will pay off later when the roofing installation finishes smoothly without interior damage concerns.

5. Ensure Gutters and Flashing Are Checked

Clogged gutters prevent proper drainage during rainstorms, allowing water to seep into places it shouldn't go. Before your new roofing goes on, make sure your gutters are clear of any leaves and debris. You can also have professionals check the integrity of your gutters beforehand to see if those need replacement. If any previous flashing or seals appear worn or compromised, the roofers will pay special attention to those vulnerable spots when prepping for the roof installation. Preventing leaks starts with good prep work like an inspection from a professional. Prior to the installation process, you may find it valuable to hire a company that will provide a comprehensive roofing inspection so that they catch any potential issues in advance.

Preparing well for every step in a major roofing install project takes diligence and care, but pays off exponentially over your roof's lifespan. Your home deserves the time and attention invested to handle such an important upgrade seamlessly for maximum benefit. Follow tips like these for proactive preparation and enjoy peace of mind that your upcoming installation will check all the boxes, from safety processes to durability outcomes. If you're in need of a new roof, let R&R Roofing LLC help you. Call us now to discuss your new roof and how we can help.