Some people work as roofers for a summer or two. Others become lifelong devotees to the profession. Those who commit to roofing as a long-time profession really take the time to learn the details. Not only do they learn how to put roofs in place, but they also learn quite a lot about various roofing materials. This equips them to make good recommendations to homeowners who are looking for the right roof. We will also make some recommendations and tell you a bit more about roofers on this blog. While we are not roofers ourselves, we know a lot about the profession and are always happy to share.
A lot goes into getting a new roof. Most of the work is done by a roofing contractor so you don't have to worry about the process. The contractor will probably do a lot of things you aren't even aware of to get ready for your new roof installation. Here's a look at some of the things roofing contractors do when they plan to put on a new roof.
Prepare an Estimate of Costs
Preparing an estimate for your new roof takes a lot of work. The roofing contractor has to list all the materials that will be needed and calculate the cost of labor. The roofer will need to examine your roof, measure it, and make calculations. It might take a few days to get the actual bid for the work ready.
Work With the Codes Office
Your roofer will probably need a permit to start work on your new roof. The permit process could take days to weeks depending on how fast your codes office responds. Once work begins, the roofer will need to deal with the codes office when inspections are done. There might be an inspection as the roof is being applied and again once the new roof is in place.
Organize the Work
The roofing contractor has the roofing supplies delivered to your home before installation day arrives. They may need to rent a crane or skid steer to put the shingles on the roof. They'll also need to arrange for a dumpster to catch all the old roofing materials that are torn off. The roofing contractor may also supervise the work crew to make sure the work proceeds without any problems.
Roofing contractors have to juggle scheduling the work among multiple clients, making adjustments for bad weather, and responding to problems such as crew members calling in sick or getting injured on the job. Most of the work the contractor does is behind the scenes. The work crew may be the only ones you encounter as they tear off your old roof, put on your new roof, and clean up the work area.
Once the work is complete, the roofing contractor may go over the job to point out things you should know about your roof and to explain the warranties and maintenance tasks you need to do to keep your roof in good shape. Another important job a roofing contractor has is to answer any questions you have about the roofing materials and the installation process. If you've never had to put on a new roof before, you'll probably have a lot of questions you want answered for your peace of mind.