If your roof has been in place for over twenty years, it may be time to replace it. While roofs are made to last, they typically don't last indefinitely. After all, the roof is the part of your house that bears the brunt of the sun, rain, and snow that affects your house on a regular basis. When you decide to replace your roof, here are the four steps you should take:
1. Clear the debris from your roof.
This step is optional, but it can make the roof replacement go by faster. If possible, climb a ladder and carefully remove leaves and other debris from the top of your roof. This will save your roofers the trouble of doing it so they can start replacing your roof more quickly.
2. Select a type of shingle.
When you replace your roof, you have the option of choosing the same type of shingle or a different type. There are many different options for you to choose from. You can find roofing shingles made from every material from copper to fiberglass. They come in a wide variety of colors, and you can select a color that complements or offsets your house nicely. Remember that different materials offer different levels of longevity. According to Modernize, metal shingles can last for up to 80 years, while natural wood shingles may only last for 25 years.
3. Contact your local roofing company.
Once you've decided on the type of shingle you want on your new roof, you're ready to call the roofing company. A roofing company will generally be able to replace your roof in a few days, although the actual time frame may vary depending on the size of your roof. If possible, try to schedule the roof replacement for a weekday, during a time when you will be at work. That will minimize the amount of noise you're exposed to as a result of the construction on your home.
4. Prepare the outside of your home.
Fortunately, you won't want to stay in a hotel while your roof is being replaced. The roofers will be able to do their job while you're in the house. However, you should remove anything sitting in your backyard or around the sides of your house, such as children's bicycles, toys, or lawn furniture. It's unlikely that anything will fall off the roof during the roof replacement, but you should keep the outside of the house clear just in case.