How to prepare your home for an asphalt shingle roof replacement

What homeowners need to know before starting a roofing replacement project

1. Planning and coordinating your roofing project1.

A representative from the company specialized in asphalt shingle roof replacement will perform a preliminary inspection of your roof to assess its condition and confirm the necessary work.

The work schedule will then be determined based on team availability, project logistics, and weather conditions.

Exact start dates cannot be guaranteed in advance, as they depend on several factors, including weather. Regular communication with the team will give you a clearer idea of the projected timeframe.

No work will be performed if there is a 60% or higher chance of rain in the forecast or if extreme conditions are expected (e.g., heatwaves or near-freezing temperatures).

2. Notifying occupants, neighbours and planning for noise

It is recommended to inform household members, roommates, or tenants about the upcoming shingles roof replacement work. Neighbours should also be advised if prolonged noise or equipment near property lines is expected.

If you work from home, consider avoiding virtual meetings during work hours, as the jobsite will generate constant noise.

3. Clearing objects around the home

Before work begins, make sure to remove all garden furniture, toys, potted plants, decorations, or any other items around your home or on the roof.

No object should be within 15 feet (3 metres) of the house during the roof replacement work. This clearance is essential for worker safety and to avoid potential damage. If full clearance is not possible, additional protective measures must be arranged at the client’s expense, unless already included in the quote.

The work area must remain clear to allow safe access to the roof and to facilitate material handling.

4. Preparing the exterior perimeter

Any item located near the walls of the house, such as tools, bicycles, bins, patio furniture, or barbecues, should be moved prior to the roof replacement.

5. Yard cleanliness

Before the crew arrives, make sure your yard is ready to allow the proper installation of protective tarps.

Prepare the area by removing pet waste, cutting and clearing away branches or boards, raking and disposing of fallen leaves, and removing any other debris that could hinder setup or damage the tarps. This helps ensure that the installation goes smoothly and keeps the protective materials in good condition.

6. Mowed lawn and clear ground

The day before—or two days prior to—the start of the roof replacement, ensure your grass is freshly cut. This will make it easier to locate and collect nails with a magnetic roller at the end of the project.

In the fall, be sure to pick up dead leaves, as they can reduce the effectiveness of this final step.

7. Parking and access

Do not park any vehicles in the driveway or close to the house while the work is underway to avoid possible damage or punctures.

Also make sure to keep a clear area of approximately 4.6 metres (15 feet) around your property at least 15 minutes before the crew’s arrival.

A working outdoor power outlet is also required.

8. Ensuring safe roof access

The roofer will supply all necessary equipment, including ladders, scaffolding and safety gear. Keep the area around your home clear of obstacles to ensure safe roof replacement and allow the team to move around freely.

9. Worker comfort

To help the job go smoothly, it’s recommended to provide access to a garden hose and, if possible, to sanitary facilities. This type of cooperation is greatly appreciated.

10. Adapting the project to weather

The contractor will monitor the weather closely to ensure safe working conditions. The schedule may be adjusted accordingly. Respecting weather conditions is essential to the quality and durability of your new shingles roof. Being patient with weather-related delays is part of ensuring a successful project.

Conclusion: good preparation leads to a successful roofing project

Proper preparation for your asphalt shingle roof replacement helps minimize surprises, protects your property, ensures a safe jobsite, and makes the team’s work easier.

If you have any questions or would like to request a quote for your new shingles roof, don’t hesitate to contact our team of roofing specialists.