So, you’ve scheduled a roof repair or replacement—congrats! You’re about to give your home the upgrade it deserves. But before your roofing crew arrives, there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother. Think of it like prepping for houseguests, except instead of setting out fresh towels, you’re moving patio furniture and warning your neighbors about the noise.
Roof work isn’t something that happens every day, so if you’re wondering how to prepare, you’re in the right place. A little planning goes a long way in keeping your home, belongings, and sanity intact while the work is being done.
And if you’re in Lake St. Louis and need a trusted expert to handle the job, Brody Allen Exteriors is ready to help. Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know before the first shingle comes off.
Clear Your Driveway and Surrounding Areas
Roofers need space to work, and that includes easy access to your driveway and yard. Before the crew arrives, make sure to:
- Move your car to a safe spot away from the house. Parking down the street keeps your vehicle free from dust, falling debris, and the occasional stray nail.
- Clear out patio furniture, grills, and potted plants from around your home’s perimeter. Anything too close to the house could get damaged or covered in roofing debris.
- Cover delicate landscaping with tarps or plywood if you’re worried about falling shingles and materials. Most roofing companies take precautions, but an extra layer of protection never hurts.
Protect Items Inside Your Home
Did you know that a roof replacement can make things shake inside your house? It’s not exactly an earthquake, but the hammering and movement can cause vibrations throughout your walls and ceilings. To avoid any surprises:
- Take down fragile wall décor like mirrors, framed pictures, or anything that could rattle off a nail and crash to the floor.
- Secure valuable items on shelves to prevent them from toppling over.
- Consider covering furniture and bedding in the attic if you have an unfinished space. Dust and debris may fall through small openings in the ceiling.
Give Your Neighbors a Heads-Up
No one likes to wake up to the unexpected sound of hammering at sunrise. Letting your neighbors know about your upcoming roof work is just the polite thing to do.
A simple, “Hey, just a heads-up—we’re getting a new roof next week. It’ll be noisy, but it should only last a couple of days,” goes a long way in keeping the peace.
This is also a good time to remind them to park their cars away from your home if they usually park close to your driveway. The last thing you want is to be responsible for roofing debris landing on their brand-new SUV.
Plan for the Noise
Roof repairs and replacements aren’t quiet. There’s no way around it—between hammering, nail guns, and shingles being torn off, your house is going to sound like a construction zone for a little while.
If you work from home, consider setting up shop at a café or library for the day. If you have pets that are easily startled, you might want to arrange for them to stay with a friend or at a pet daycare.
And if you have kids who nap during the day? Let’s just say it might be a good time to plan an afternoon outing.
Turn Off Your Sprinklers
The last thing your roofing crew needs is an unexpected shower while they’re working. If you have an automatic sprinkler system, turn it off the night before to keep the work area dry.
Check Power Outlets
Some roofing tools may require access to power, so check if you have outdoor electrical outlets available. If not, make sure you have an extension cord handy so the crew can access an indoor outlet if needed.
Secure Pets and Kids
If you’re staying home during the roof work, make sure kids and pets are safely indoors and away from the work zone.
- Pets: The noise and unfamiliar people in the yard might stress them out, so keeping them in a quiet, interior room is best.
- Kids: If they’re old enough to understand, let them know to stay away from the outside work area. If they’re younger, keeping a close eye on them is key—construction zones and curious kids don’t mix well.
Prepare for Possible Debris
Even with the best cleanup efforts, small debris like nails and shingle fragments can end up in your yard. Most roofing companies use magnets to sweep the area after the job is done, but it doesn’t hurt to do a quick walkaround yourself, especially if you have pets or kids who play outside.
If you have a pool, covering it is a smart move to keep dust and debris out of the water.
Double-Check Your Homeowner’s Insurance
While professional roofing companies are insured, it’s always a good idea to check your homeowner’s insurance policy before major work is done. In the rare event of accidental damage, knowing what’s covered (and what’s not) can save you stress later on.
Think About Your Daily Routine
If your roofing project lasts more than a day, think about how it might affect your daily routine.
- Do you need to adjust work meetings because of noise?
- Will you need an alternative entrance if roofers are blocking your usual way in and out?
- Do you have packages being delivered that might get in the way of the work?
Planning ahead can help minimize disruptions so the process is as smooth as possible.
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.
Take the Opportunity to Step Out and Enjoy Lake St. Louis
Since your home is going to be a bit chaotic for a day or two, why not take the opportunity to explore Lake St. Louis? If you’re looking for a relaxing way to pass the time, Heritage of Hawk Ridge Golf Course is a great place to unwind. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just enjoy the occasional round, it’s a nice break from the sound of nail guns.
Even if golf isn’t your thing, the area offers walking trails and beautiful views, making it a great spot to escape while your roof gets a makeover. You can learn more about it here.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your home for a roof repair or replacement doesn’t have to be stressful. A little planning—clearing your driveway, securing fragile items, warning the neighbors, and preparing for the noise—can make the whole process a lot easier.
And when the work is done, you’ll have a strong, secure roof that will protect your home for years to come.
If you’re looking for expert roofing services in Lake St. Louis, Brody Allen Exteriors is ready to help. Because while getting a new roof might be a temporary inconvenience, knowing your home is safe and secure is worth every bit of it.
Stephen Allen
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.
