A few days before: the people
The neighbours. A roofing job brings noise and dust. Go see them a few days ahead and give them the announced dates. This visit is one of the steps of a roof replacement that falls to the owner, not the roofer.
When your building touches the one next door, or the lots are tight, we may need to cross the neighbouring yard, lean a ladder there or spread tarps there. Get the neighbour's agreement before the first day. Permission asked in advance is better than apologies.
Children. The area around a house under construction is not a playground. During working hours, they stay inside or go elsewhere.
Pets. A racket that lasts for hours makes many dogs and cats anxious. If yours worries easily, leave it with someone until the end. And until the nails have been picked up, do not let it go out alone in the yard.
The night before: cars and the dumpster
The dumpster and the delivery truck are placed as close to the walls as possible. Ask us exactly where the dumpster will be placed.
Clear the driveway and the garage of vehicles the night before. Once the dumpster is dropped off, no vehicle leaves the driveway.
Sometimes the dumpster or the truck has to extend onto the street or the sidewalk. Ask us then whether City authorization is needed, and whether you or we apply for it.
Inside: dust and vibration
During the tear-off, dust and small debris pass between the deck boards and fall below. In a finished attic where people normally walk around, spread a tarp or old sheets over what is stored there, and bring down anything fragile. If the space under the roof is only reachable through a hatch, do not go in. Tell us instead what is in there.
Every hammer blow travels through the whole house. On the top floor, two steps are enough.
- Take frames and mirrors off the walls.
- Clear shelves of anything that can break.
Outside: the base of the walls
Our tarps do not stop everything. Clear a few metres all around the house.
- Put away the garden furniture, the barbecue, bikes and toys.
- Move flower pots away, and show us the flower beds that matter to you.
- Mow the lawn before the job. A nail is easier to find in short grass.
A deck installed on the roof must be taken apart before the work begins. Know in advance who takes it down, and whether the price includes putting it back up.
Frequently asked questions
Is it up to me or the contractor to tell the neighbours?
It is up to you to tell the neighbours first. You know your neighbours. When the crew has to set foot on a neighbouring lot, the owner's agreement is obtained before the work begins.
My air conditioner is on the roof, or against the wall. What should I plan?
Bring it up at the quote visit. On the ground, a panel is enough to protect the unit. On the roof, it may need to be lifted or disconnected. This work is sometimes done by another specialist.
Can I still use the front door?
Yes, the front door stays usable, with care. Find out which side the debris falls on, and warn the crew before stepping outside.