Preparing for Roof Replacement: What Homeowners Need to Know

A roof replacement is a significant home improvement project. Understanding what to expect and preparing properly makes the process smoother for you and more efficient for your roofing crew. At River City Roofing Solutions, we walk homeowners through this process—here's what you need to know.

Before Work Begins

Preparation starts before the crew arrives.

Clear Your Driveway and Access Areas

Roofing crews need space for materials, equipment, and waste containers.

Move vehicles out of the driveway and away from the work area.

The materials delivery truck needs close access to unload.

A dumpster or trailer will be positioned for debris—this needs space too.

Consider where you'll park during the project.

Protect Your Belongings Outside

Roofing generates debris despite our best efforts to contain it.

Move patio furniture, grills, and outdoor equipment away from the house.

Cover plants and landscaping near the house with tarps (we provide these, but removing fragile plants is safer).

Remove wall decorations from exterior walls.

Take down hanging plants and wind chimes.

Move vehicles that might be hit by falling debris.

Inside Your Home

The work outside affects conditions inside.

Expect noise—significant noise. Roofing involves hammering, material handling, and general construction sounds. If you work from home, plan accordingly.

Vibrations may shake loose items on walls—consider removing fragile items from high shelves and taking down pictures on walls directly under the roof.

Dust and debris may shake loose in your attic—cover stored items with sheets.

If you have a baby who needs quiet for naps, plan alternative arrangements.

Your Attic Space

Roofing work affects your attic.

Remove or cover items stored in the attic—dust and small debris will shake loose.

Ensure your contractor knows about anything unusual in your attic space.

Fragile items like holiday decorations should be protected.

After the project, check your attic for any debris that needs cleaning.

Pets and Children

Keep kids and pets safe during the project.

The work area is hazardous—keep children and pets away.

Noise may upset sensitive pets—consider arrangements to keep them comfortable.

The crew will be entering and exiting throughout the day—secure pets so they can't escape.

Roofing materials and tools can be dangerous—keep curious children inside.

Notify Your Neighbors

A courtesy heads-up to neighbors is appreciated.

Let them know work will be happening and approximately how long.

Warn about noise and parking considerations.

Ask them to move vehicles if they park near your home.

Being a good neighbor maintains community relationships.

The Day Before Installation

Final preparations the day before:

Confirm the start time and expected duration with your contractor.

Remove any remaining items from the yard.

Arrange alternative parking.

Prepare for limited access to parts of your home during work.

Ensure contractor has your contact information for any questions.

During the Replacement

Understanding what's happening helps you know what's normal.

Tear-off Day

The first phase removes existing roofing.

Expect the loudest noise during this phase—scraping, prying, and material falling.

Debris will fall around the house—tarps protect landscaping.

The crew will inspect the deck as it's exposed—any damage will be reported.

This is the most disruptive phase of the project.

Installation Phase

After tear-off comes installation.

Underlayment goes down first, protecting the exposed deck.

Shingles are installed methodically across the roof surface.

Flashing work happens around penetrations and transitions.

Ridge cap installation completes the job.

Noise continues but is different—more hammering, less scraping.

What to Expect Each Day

During a typical replacement project:

Crew arrives early—usually around 7-8 AM.

Work continues throughout the day with breaks.

The end of day varies based on progress and conditions.

Your home should be watertight by end of each day.

You can typically use your home normally, just avoid the work area.

Weather Delays

Roofing requires dry conditions.

Rain stops work—your contractor will reschedule as needed.

Your home will be tarped if work must stop mid-project.

Don't worry if weather delays your project—it's better than installing in poor conditions.

Communication keeps you informed of schedule changes.

After Completion

The job isn't done until cleanup is complete.

Debris Cleanup

Professional crews clean up thoroughly.

All debris should be removed from your yard and gutters.

The dumpster will be removed.

A magnetic sweep collects stray nails from your yard and driveway.

You should be able to walk barefoot in your yard when we're done.

Final Inspection

Before final payment:

Walk around the property with your contractor.

Verify cleanup is complete.

Ensure all agreed work was performed.

Document any concerns.

Receive warranty documentation.

After the Crew Leaves

In the days following completion:

Check your gutters after the first rain—some debris may have settled in.

Inspect your attic for any issues.

Keep warranty documents in a safe place.

Know that you can call with any questions or concerns.

What We Do to Prepare

At River City Roofing Solutions, we prepare for your project too.

We confirm all material deliveries are scheduled.

We review job specifics with our crew.

We notify you of start time and expected duration.

We bring all necessary protective materials for your property.

We're prepared to communicate throughout the process.

A roof replacement is a significant event, but proper preparation makes it manageable. We'll guide you through every step—that's part of the service we provide to homeowners throughout North Alabama.