Delays with roofing projects can be exasperating and there are obvious reasons why and extenuating circumstances that play into delays. Though it’s not always the answer to interruptions with roofing projects, planning ahead and coordinating scheduling with roofing work are important aspects that might be of help in keeping roofing repairs or replacements on schedule. Unfortunately, it’s inevitable that holdups can occur. Here are some of the most common causes for roofing project delays.
Weather
Bad weather, whether severe cold or rain, will play a big role in roofing delays, and it’s usually one of the common reasons why a lot of roofing work that’s already in progress comes to a standstill. The smallest amount of snow, ice or rain can cause interruptions as a roof deck has to be dry before any other roofing layers can be put in place. Any moisture that remains can wreak havoc on how a roof sustains itself. Also, adhering materials or adhesive products used will require longer drying times, which will disrupt a project.
If roof replacement or repair is scheduled on a nasty weather day, rescheduling is likely a given. Bad weather delays can usually be deterred through scheduling and preparing for any major roofing job in the summer or even fall when the chances of major downpours or other poor weather are less. The only catch is that summer is usually a hectic time for roofing contractors, so scheduling for any major work should happen enough ahead of time to assure a slot for the summer.
Material Deliveries or Shortages
Usually a roofing contractor will schedule materials to arrive before the job, but if any work has begun and all the materials aren’t on the job site, delays can occur. Before initiating any roofing project, it’s essential to ensure that a roofing contractor or foreman for a roofing job has scheduled the materials to arrive on time. Any delays concerning materials should be minimal when a homeowner consults with the contractor and supervisor on the job. Also, with any increase in building starts or and renovations in an area, construction related materials can be in short supply, which can also cause delays.
Unexpected Expenses
Unexpected situations that occur with a roof replacement or repairs are occurrences that should always be included in a quote for any major roofing project. When unexpected expenditures are not planned for or included in a budget, it’s easy for construction delays to happen and expenditures to be higher than initially expected for a project. Many times added expenses with a roof replacement are not taken into account until old roofing is ripped away and there are repairs to be made that weren’t previously detected. Continuing on without repairs is not recommended and delays are going to happen with any unexpected expenditures for roofing issues. Failing to prepare for the unexpected in a budget can cause major delays.
Hidden Problems
When old roofing material is removed during the replacement process, there are steps to contend with in the process. Once the roofing is removed all the way to the roof deck, a thorough inspection is necessary before installation of the new roof. In the process, there are issues that need to be dealt with before the new roof is installed. For example, if the roof decking is in bad shape and any moisture has damaged it, replacement will be necessary. This is an unexpected or hidden problem that needs to be addressed as decking material will have to be ordered and acquired before further work can continue. Obviously, this is a delay in the process and will have to be rectified before the final roof replacement can continue.
Structural Issues
Along with hidden problems, structural issues with an old roof can seriously delay a roof replacement project. With an aged roof, there could be all kinds of issues with it before replacement can move forward. You should take the following factors into consideration that could cause delay.
- Rot with decking material is due to water damage to any underlying roof felt.
- Rot with rafters is because of leakage that goes beyond the roof decking and leaks into the rafters with the chance of complete deterioration that entails extensive repair to avoid roof failure.
- Flashing is what helps channel water away from a roof and if it is wearing out or has been improperly installed, it could cause wear on the shingles and allow water to collect.
- Roof fixture dents that have been caused by hail or other weather related conditions may face replacement before any roofing is finalized. That could mean replacement of vents, attic fans and any other roof fixtures.
- Low spots can mean possible collapse underfoot which entails the replacement of wood decking or plywood to maintain the structural solidness of the roof and prevent the development of mold.
Necessary Permits
It’s hard to imagine having to get a permit to replace a roofing system, but it is a necessary requirement before any work begins. The permit application process needs approval, which may create delays because of the time involved with getting the approval. It may take weeks because of the details involved in the process and the strict and picky nature of building officials. Inspections are part of that process and that means setting up a date and time for a roof inspection, which can be at the discretion of the inspector. Most inspectors have tight schedules that could put your inspection at a later date than you would like. The best way to deal with any delays with permits and inspections is to get any paperwork and documentation in as quickly as possible to speed up the process.
The common causes for roofing project delays don’t have to be a surprise if the right approaches are taken before going head-on into a full roof replacement or other major repair. Finding a contractor that understands the common causes is a start and can save you a lot of headaches in dealing with project delays. Complete the online contact form and a representative will get back to you with the answers you need to avoid roofing project delays.
