Roof repairs are inconvenient, but an almost inevitable aspect of homeownership. Whether you’re buying a new house, moving to another, living in an old one, or selling your current one, at one point, you will have to deal with roof repair.
Not many homeowners, however, know what to do to get ready for this major home improvement project. To make it easier for you, here’s a few tips on how to prepare for a roof repair:
1. Find a contractor you’re comfortable working with
Even for a problem as “minor” as a leak, it’s best to let the professionals handle it. The tricky part about roof problems is that more often than not, there’s more to them than meets the eye. This means that a small leak might not be just that; and it could lead to something bigger, like water damage.
When you work with professional roofing and gutter companies, they’d know where to look and what to look at. They’ll find out the source of the problem and its underlying causes to ensure you’re not missing anything when doing repair work.
2. Ask about the scope of the project
Most roofing contractors offer free inspections before starting any work, or offer them at lower rates. This helps you find out the extent of the problems and what work needs to be done. Ask for quotes from at least two contractors you’re eyeing to work with and compare their offers.
3. Have a realistic timeline and budget
After talking to contractors, you’ll get an idea of how long the repair work will take and how much it will cost you. It’s always best to overestimate the costs and timeline a little and to expect delays and add-ons.
During the repair work, for example, the contractor may find out you need to replace old shingles, get new gutter guards, or replace the caulking. These extra works can pile up and may require you to shell out a little more money.
4. Get your rooms ready
Prepare the house before repair works start, unless you want dust and debris covering your furniture. Cover every surface you don’t want to be dirtied and store away breakables and home pieces that aren’t mounted.
Also, you might need to stay at a different place if the repair will include major works over a few weeks.
5. Expect hiccups
Inclement weather, lack of supplies and other factors out of your hand can delay the repair work. As such, it’s best to have a backup plan for everything. If a particular roof design or material is out of stock, for example, have another choice in mind that’s easily available.
In any work, preparation is key. When it comes to roof repair, knowing what to expect can save you from a lot of headaches and unnecessary expenses. Sentry Exteriors makes this process a whole lot easier for homeowners in Roanoke, VA and nearby areas. We are home to reliable and qualified contractors who can make the repair work as less stressful as possible. Call us today at (434) 333-7753 or contact us through our form.
