How to Prepare Your Home for a Roof Replacement Project

Key Takeaways:

1. Clear the area - Move cars and patio furniture to protect them from falling debris.
2. Cover attic items - Dust and vibrations can shake things up inside your home.
3. Plan for noise - Consider keeping kids/pets away during the loudest work hours.
4. Ask about materials - Your roofer can explain the best options for your specific roof type.
5. Pick a trusted pro - A good contractor handles everything from tear-off to cleanup.
6. Simple prep = smoother project!

So, you’ve decided it’s time for a roof replacement. Maybe your roof shingles are curling, or there’s water damage that’s beyond repair. Whatever the reason, a new roof is a big deal—but the good news is, with a little planning, the whole process can go smoothly.

The key? Preparation. If you’re working with professional roofing contractors like Advanced Roofing Inc., they’ll handle the heavy lifting. But there are a few things you can do to make sure everything runs without a hitch. Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Roof Replacement Process

First, it helps to know what’s coming. A roof replacement project isn’t just about tearing off old shingles and slapping on new ones. There’s a lot that goes into it—inspecting the roof deck, checking for structural damage, and making sure everything meets local building codes.

Your roofing crew will start with a roof inspection to assess the condition of your current roof. They’ll look for weak spots, rot, or any hidden issues that could cause problems later. Once that’s done, they’ll give you a clear plan for the roof installation.

Pro Tip: Ask your roofing company if they offer a Construction Readiness Assessment. This helps spot potential issues before the construction phase begins.

Getting Your Home Ready

Now, let’s talk about what you need to do before the roofing project starts.

1. Clear the Area Around Your House

The roofing team will need space to work. That means moving cars, patio furniture, grills, and anything else that’s near the house. Falling debris, old nails, and roofing materials can land in these areas, so it’s best to keep them clear.

If you have delicate plants or landscaping near the house, consider covering them with tarps. Roofing professionals try to avoid causing potential damage, but it’s always better to be safe.

2. Protect Your Belongings Inside

A roof replacement can get loud and dusty. If you have items in your attic or top-floor rooms, it’s a good idea to cover them or move them to another part of the house. Vibrations from hammering can shake loose dust and even small debris.

Bonus Tip: Take down hanging pictures or fragile decor on walls near the roof. The pounding can sometimes cause things to fall.

3. Think About Your Pets and Family

Let’s be real—construction noise can be stressful for pets and kids. If possible, plan for them to be out of the house during the noisiest parts of the day. Even a short trip to the park can make the whole experience easier for them.

4. Prepare for Power and Access

Your roofing contractors might need to use extension cords or access outdoor power outlets. Make sure these are available and not blocked. If you have outdoor light fixtures near the roof, let the crew know so they can work around them safely.

Also, trim any overhanging tree branches. These can get in the way of the roofing crew and slow things down.

Choosing the Right Roofing Materials

This is where your roofing company will guide you, but it helps to know your options. The type of roof you have—whether it’s gable roofs, hip roofs, or flat roofs—will influence what materials work best.

• Asphalt shingles – Affordable and great for most residential roofs.
• Metal roofing – Durable and long-lasting, perfect for Illinois weather.
• Built-Up Roofing or Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply roofing membrane made from a blend of polypropylene a... Read More – Common for commercial roofs and flat roofs.

Your professional roofing services provider will help you pick the best material type for your home and budget.

What to Expect on the Big Day

When the roof replacement process begins, here’s what usually happens:

1. The old roof comes off – The crew will strip away old shingles and inspect the roof deck for damage.
2. Repairs (if needed) – If there’s rot or weak spots, they’ll fix them before moving forward.
3. New roof installation – The new roof surface goes on, whether it’s shingles, metal, or another material.
4. Cleanup – A good roofing company will leave your property as clean as they found it.

The whole process can take anywhere from a day to a week, depending on the size of your roof and weather conditions.

After the Roof Replacement

Once the job is done, do a quick walkaround with the project team to make sure everything looks good. Check for any leftover nails or debris in your yard.

Important: Schedule regular inspections to keep your new roof in top shape. Catching small issues early can prevent big problems later.

Why Choose Advanced Roofing Inc. for Your Roof Replacement Project

If you’re in Illinois and looking for reliable roofing contractors, we’ve got you covered. At Advanced Roofing Inc., we make sure every roof installation is done right—with quality materials, skilled crews, and clear communication from start to finish.

We handle everything from residential roofs to commercial buildings, so whether you’re a building owner or just need a quick fix, we’re here to help.

Ready to get started? Give us a call, and let’s make your roof replacement as smooth as possible.

There you go—a simple, no-stress guide to prepping for your roof replacement project. A little preparation goes a long way, and with the right roofing professionals, you’ll have a sturdy, worry-free roof over your head in no time.