The short answer is no.
A roof replacement does not always require you to leave your home. In any case, it depends on your comfort level and the particular circumstances of your home and family.
During the roof replacement process, there will be a lot of noise and mess. While it is possible to stay, some people choose to leave to avoid disruption.
The key is understanding what to expect to make the best decision for you and your family.
In this article, we will explain what happens during a roof replacement, why you might stay at home, and how to prepare if you decide to do so.
What Happens During a Roof Replacement?
A roof replacement is a major construction project that involves tearing off the old shingles, hammering, sawing, and installing new ones.
Depending on the size of your residential roof and the complexity of the work, a team of roofers could work on your home for several days.
There will be constant noise throughout the day. When removing old materials and installing new ones, roofers use hammers, nail guns, and saws.
Workers move across your roof, set up ladders, and carry materials. Although tarps are used by professionals to protect your property from debris, some dust and particles may still enter your residence.
You should prepare yourself for these disruptions if you are staying at home during the replacement. Typically, the work begins early in the morning and continues into the afternoon.
It is best to adjust your schedule if you work from home or if you have small children or pets that are sensitive to noise.
Why Do Some People Stay Home During Roof Replacement?
Many people prefer to remain home during the process for convenience and to keep an eye on things. You may wish to stay for the following reasons:
You Want to Be Available for Questions and Decisions
The replacement of a roof can sometimes reveal unexpected problems. For example, when the old shingles are removed, the roofing team may find damaged decking or other hidden problems that require immediate attention.
If you are at home, you can provide quick decisions or ask questions before the team proceeds. The availability of the team ensures that the process stays on track without being delayed by unresolved concerns.
Being present allows you to observe the quality of work being performed.
You are Comfortable with the Noise and Activity
It is common for roofing workers to hammer, drill, and move on the roof throughout the day, which creates constant noise. Most people can manage this, especially if they spend most of their time in quieter areas of the house.
Many homeowners prefer to remain in their own homes. A relocation, whether to a hotel, a family member’s house, or another temporary location, can be an unnecessary inconvenience.
Staying home can save you valuable time and effort if you are not bothered by the noise and can go about your daily activities without interruption.
Your Routine Isn’t Affected by the Replacement
During the day, the roofing activity may not affect your routine at all if you are at work or school.
Most roofers work during daylight hours, which means the majority of the noise and activity will occur while you are away from home. When you return home in the evening, the team will have packed up for the day, leaving you with a quiet home to enjoy.
The replacement process can be minimized by scheduling errands or outdoor activities at the quietest times of the day.
Why Do Some People Leave During Roof Replacement?
During a roof replacement, you may be able to stay, but there are several good reasons for leaving. Here are a few scenarios where relocating, even temporarily, might be the better choice:
You Work From Home or Have Small Children
There is a constant hum of hammering and drilling, as well as the sound of workers walking across the roof. Noise can disrupt your productivity if you work from home and require a quiet environment to concentrate.
Small children who take naps during the day may also have difficulty sleeping due to the commotion. The disruption of their routine may result in cranky, restless children, making life at home more difficult for everyone. There are times when leaving for a quieter environment may be the best course of action.
Your Pets Are Sensitive to Noise and Activity
Particularly dogs and cats, are often startled by loud or unfamiliar noises. It is possible for them to become anxious or stressed due to the hammering, footsteps, and constant activity outside.
During a roof replacement, some pets may bark, hide, or become unusually clingy.
Taking your pets to a friend’s house or a pet daycare can help them remain calm and relaxed. This also prevents them from wandering into work areas where falling debris or tools could pose a safety hazard.
You are Concerned About Safety During the Replacement
Roofing replacement is a construction project, and like any construction project, there is some degree of risk involved. Although roofing teams take precautions to minimize hazards, things like nails on the ground or falling debris may still occur.
Safety concerns may weigh heavily on your mind if you have young children or elderly family members at home. If you relocate during a roof replacement, you won’t have to worry about anyone getting too close to the work areas or tripping over debris.
You Want to Avoid Dust and Mess in Your Home
Roofing replacements create dust, debris, and particles, especially when shingles are removed and decking is replaced.
Despite the fact that professionals use tarps and clean up after themselves, some dust may still find its way into your residence. Those who suffer from allergies or asthma may find this particularly bothersome.
You can avoid the mess entirely by leaving during the process. Upon your return, the work will be completed, and your home will be clean and ready for your enjoyment.
Additional Tip
On the day of your roof replacement, your driveway will likely be filled with a dump truck, trailer, and other vehicles.
Move your car before the contractor arrives to avoid being blocked in. Even if you don’t plan to leave, having your car accessible makes it easier if noise becomes too much, an emergency happens, or you have errands to run.
If you leave after work starts, the crew will need to stop and clear the driveway of tools, debris, and nails, slowing the process. This delay could make your roof replacement take longer than planned. Plan ahead for convenience!
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to stay or leave during a roof replacement depends on your comfort level and circumstances. The convenience of staying at home and being able to oversee the process is appealing, but the noise and disruption can be challenging for some people. It is possible to enjoy peace and quiet by leaving, but some planning is required.
As the top roofing contractor in the areas it services, American Remodeling works with homeowners to make the process as smooth as possible. No matter where you decide to reside, we will ensure that your roof replacement is handled professionally and efficiently. It is important to choose what feels right for you and your family. Please feel free to contact our team if you have questions or need guidance.