If you have a roof replacement coming up, you more than likely have a few questions about how it’s going to happen. One of the most common questions the RGB Construction team gets asked is, “Do I need to be home during roof replacement?” The short answer is no. You don’t have to be home. Depending on your schedule, preferences, or the layout of your home, however, you may want to be. Either way is fine with your roofer.
At RGB Construction, we want South Jersey homeowners to feel fully prepared when roof installation day arrives. Below, we’ll break down what you can expect, what’s required of you, and how to make sure your home and family are ready for a smooth and successful replacement.
Key Takeaways
- You don’t need to be home during roof replacement, but being accessible by phone is recommended in case of unexpected issues or questions.
- Roof replacement is a multi-step process, including crew setup, tear-off, deck inspection, installation of the new roof system, and thorough cleanup.
- Preparing your home ahead of time—such as clearing the driveway, covering attic items, and notifying neighbors—helps ensure a smooth and safe installation.
- Roofing projects can be noisy and disruptive, especially for pets and young children, so consider making arrangements if they’ll be home.
- RGB Construction handles each project professionally, whether or not the homeowner is present, ensuring safety, communication, and quality workmanship from start to finish.
Do I Have to Be Home During Roof Replacement?
No, you’re not required to be home during the day of the roof replacement. In fact, many homeowners choose to schedule their roof replacement during the day, when they are at work, running errands, or going on a day trip to avoid noise and disruption.
However, there are situations where being home or accessible by phone is helpful, including:
- When an unexpected issue arises that need your immediate approval, such as a roof deck replacement
- If pets or young children need supervision during loud work
- Your contractor needs access to parts of your house, like the attic space
- If you simply want peace of mind seeing the process unfold
Whether you decide to stay or go, rest assured. Local roofing contractors like RGB Construction handle projects professionally, cleanly, and with your convenience in mind.
What to Expect on Roof Replacement Day
Knowing what will happen on installation day can help you plan ahead. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what typically happens during a roof replacement:
1. Crew Arrival and Job Setup
Expect the roofing crew to arrive in the morning, usually between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m., depending on weather and project size. They’ll begin by setting up safety equipment, tarps, and dumpsters. Be advised that you may be blocked in by the crew’s vehicles, so consider moving your vehicle so you can leave in the morning, if necessary.
2. Tear-Off, if Applicable
If your roof is being fully replaced—not just reroofed—the team will begin tearing off the old shingles and underlayment. This phase is noisy and dusty, and debris will be falling from the roof into designated areas. During this stage, it may be best to keep pets and small children indoors and away from the noise.
3. Deck Inspection and Repairs
Once the old materials are removed, the decking (wood underneath the shingles) will be inspected. If any sections are rotted or damaged, the team will contact you to approve replacements before proceeding.
4. Installation of the New Roofing System
During the installation, the crew installs ice and water barriers, underlayment, flashing, new shingles of your selected roof material, and ventilation systems.
5. Cleanup and Final Inspection
After installation, the crew will perform a thorough cleanup, including:
- Removing debris and old shingles
- Running magnets to pick up stray nails
- Blowing off walkways and driveways
- Inspecting the finished roof for quality
You’ll then receive a walkthrough or follow-up to ensure you’re satisfied.
Tips to Prepare Your Home for Roof Replacement
Even if you plan to be away during the roof installation, taking a few simple steps in advance can help ensure the process goes smoothly and safely—for both your home and the crew.
Clear Your Driveway and Walkways
Move your vehicles, bikes, and any outdoor furniture or equipment away from the house and driveway. This gives the crew safe access to set up ladders, tarps, and dumpsters, and prevents your property from being damaged by falling debris. It also ensures you won’t get blocked in if you need to leave during the project.
Cover Items in the Attic
Roof replacements can shake dust, debris, and insulation loose from above, which may fall into attic spaces. If you use your attic for storage, cover valuables, boxes, or furniture with plastic sheeting or old sheets to keep them clean and protected.
Secure Wall Decorations and Fragile Items
The vibrations from hammering and equipment on the roof can travel through the structure of your home, especially in upper floors. Remove or secure mirrors, artwork, shelves, or other fragile items on the walls or ceiling to avoid damage.
Notify Your Neighbors
As you’ve already learned, roofing can be noisy. If you live in a close-knit neighborhood, it’s courteous to give your neighbors a heads-up about the installation day. Letting them know in advance can help them plan accordingly, especially if they have pets, young children, or work from home.
Make Arrangements for Pets
Roofing noise can be distressing to dogs, cats, or other animals. If your pets are anxious around loud sounds or strangers, consider boarding them for the day or creating a quiet space in your home—ideally away from the noise—to keep them comfortable and safe.
Can I Talk to the Crew During Installation?
Yes, you can talk to the crew during a roof replacement. However, it’s recommended that you keep discussions to a minimum when the crew is actively working. Distractions can impact safety and efficiency. If you do have questions or concerns during the roofing process, you can seek out the site supervisor before or after the project.
Schedule Your Roof Replacement with a Local Roofing Contractor Today
Ultimately, whether you stay home during roof replacement is up to you. While it’s not necessary, you may want to be nearby if you have specific concerns or want to monitor progress.
At RGB Construction, we value your comfort and trust. Whether you’re home or away, you can count on our licensed, insured team to treat your property with care and deliver a high-quality roof that lasts.
Ready to upgrade your roof? We serve Gloucester, Camden, Burlington County, and surrounding areas with reliable roofing installation and honest guidance. Contact RGB Construction today at 856-264-9093 or fill out our online request form to get started.
