Can You Stay Home During a Roof Replacement? Here’s What to Expect

February 10, 2025 | 5 min. read | By Stephen Allen

So, you’ve finally decided to replace your roof. Maybe you’ve been putting it off for a while, pretending those missing shingles were a “design choice.” Or maybe the latest Missouri storm did a number on your home, and now it’s time for an upgrade. Whatever the reason, you’re probably wondering—can you stay home while the work is being done? Here’s what to expect during a roof replacement

The short answer is yes, you can. The longer answer? Well, let’s just say it depends on how much noise you can tolerate and whether or not you enjoy the soothing sounds of hammering at 7 a.m.

If you’re in the Lake St. Louis area and need expert help with your roof replacement, Brody Allen Exteriors has got you covered—literally. Now, let’s talk about what staying home during a roof replacement is really like and whether or not it’s the right choice for you.

Commercial roofing from the top view

What Happens During a Roof Replacement?

Before deciding whether to stay home or temporarily relocate, it helps to understand what’s involved in a roof replacement. Spoiler alert: it’s not exactly a quiet process.

  • Tearing Off the Old Roof: The first step is removing your existing shingles. This can get messy, with debris falling around the house. Roofers will protect landscaping and windows, but you’ll likely hear a lot of banging and scraping.
  • Inspection and Repairs: Once the old shingles are off, the roofers will check for any hidden damage. If they find rotting wood or other issues, they’ll fix it before moving forward.
  • Installing the New Roof: This includes laying down underlayment, installing new shingles, and sealing everything up to keep water out.
  • Cleanup: A good roofing crew will do a thorough cleanup, using magnets to pick up stray nails and making sure no debris is left behind.

Most roof replacements take one to three days, depending on the size of your home and the weather.

How to Choose the Best Materials for Your Roof

The Pros of Staying Home

Convenience

If you work from home or have pets that need supervision, staying put might be the easiest option. You won’t have to coordinate schedules, pack up your things, or find a temporary place to crash.

Keeping an Eye on the Project

Being home allows you to see the progress firsthand. If any unexpected issues arise, you’ll be right there to discuss options with your contractor.

No Extra Costs

Staying home means you won’t have to book a hotel or find other accommodations, saving you money.

The Cons of Staying Home

The Noise

Let’s not sugarcoat it—roof eplacement is loud. The sound of shingles being torn off, nails being hammered in, and workers moving around can make for a pretty chaotic environment. If you’re sensitive to noise or need a quiet space for work or rest, this could be a challenge.

Brody Allen crew roofing in O'Fallon MO

Disruptions to Your Routine

Need to take an important work call? Good luck competing with the hammering overhead. Nap time for the kids? That might be a lost cause. Even simple things like watching TV or enjoying a peaceful morning coffee could be interrupted.

Safety Concerns

While roofing crews take precautions, there will be debris, ladders, and tools around your home. If you have small children or pets, you’ll need to keep them inside and away from work zones.

Tips for Staying Home During a Roof Replacement

If you decide to stay put, here are a few ways to make the experience more manageable.

1. Plan for the Noise

Consider investing in noise-canceling headphones or planning activities outside the house during peak work hours. If you work remotely, a local coffee shop or library might be a good temporary office.

2. Protect Your Belongings

Vibrations from the roofing work can sometimes shake things inside your home. If you have delicate items on shelves or walls, take them down to avoid any accidental falls.

3. Keep Kids and Pets Safe

For children and pets, all the commotion can be stressful. If possible, keep them in a part of the house farthest from the work or arrange for them to stay with a friend or family member for the day.

Need Assistance with Your Claim?

Brody Allen Exteriors can help guide you through the process and ensure your roof is repaired to the highest standards. Many of your neighbors have successfully navigated their insurance claims with our expert assistance.

4. Prepare for Limited Access

Depending on where your roofing crew is working, certain entrances to your home might be blocked. Make sure you have an easy way in and out, and park your car in a safe spot before work begins.

5. Talk to Your Roofing Contractor

A good contractor will walk you through the process and let you know what to expect. If you have any concerns about safety, timing, or anything else, don’t be afraid to ask.

When Should You Consider Leaving?

While most homeowners can stay put during a roof replacement, there are times when it might be better to leave for a day or two.

  • If You Have a Home Office: If your job requires focus and quiet, the noise might make working from home difficult.
  • If You Have Small Children or Pets: The constant hammering and activity can be stressful, and keeping them safe could be a challenge.
  • If You Have Allergies or Respiratory Issues: Roofing work can kick up dust and debris, which might be irritating for those with allergies or breathing problems.
  • If You Just Want to Avoid the Chaos: Let’s be honest—sometimes, it’s just easier to get out of the house and let the pros do their thing without distractions.
Roof replacement after hail in Chesterfield

A Good Excuse to Explore Lake St. Louis

If you decide to head out for the day, why not make the most of it? Lake St. Louis has plenty of great spots to check out while your new roof is going up. One local favorite is the Lake St. Louis Farmers & Artists Market. It’s a great place to grab fresh produce, baked goods, and unique handmade items. Plus, it’s a nice way to support local businesses while your house gets an upgrade.

Final Thoughts

So, can you stay home during a roof replacement? Absolutely. Will it be peaceful? Not exactly. But with a little preparation, you can make the experience as smooth as possible.

Whether you choose to stick it out or escape for a bit, the important thing is that when the work is done, you’ll have a brand-new roof protecting your home for years to come.

And if you’re looking for a roofing contractor who gets the job done right, Brody Allen Exteriors is ready to help. Because at the end of the day, a little noise is a small price to pay for peace of mind and a sturdy roof over your head.

Stephen Allen profile picture, Owner of Brody Allen Exteriors

Stephen Allen

Stephen Allen, the founder of Brody Allen Exteriors, is deeply committed to providing top-notch roofing solutions to homeowners in Wentzville. With a strong background in construction and a keen understanding of local weather challenges, Stephen leads his team with a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Under his leadership, Brody Allen Exteriors has grown into a trusted name in the roofing industry, recognized for its expertise in handling everything from routine maintenance to complex storm damage repairs.

MISSOURI'S BEST

Lake St. Louis Roofing Professionals You Can Trust

When you choose Brody Allen Exteriors, you're choosing a team that's dedicated to protecting Lake St. Louis homes. We live and work in this community, and we're here to ensure your roof is strong, durable, and built to last.