Having a new residential metal roof installed is exciting but can also be stressful if you are not prepared. We understand that there’s so much to think about when installing a new roof, from choosing your metal panel and color to hiring a contractor, that the logistics of the actual installation itself may fall through the cracks. However, if you prepare metal roof installation, it will make the process much better for both you and your contractor.
At Western States Metal Roofing, we want your installation experience to be as smooth as possible. We have written this article so you’ll be informed of what to expect before and after your metal roof installation.
Preparation Before A New Residential Metal Roof Installation
- Communication with your contractor
- Choose one point of contact
- Prepare your property
- Inform neighbors of installation
Communicate With Your Roof Contractor
Communication is key during an installation. Be sure you and your contractor are on the same page when it comes to:
- Project timeline (start and end dates).
- Start and end times for work during the day.
- How many workers will be on site.
- Accessing the property and electrical outlets (if applicable).
- Restroom accessibility (contractors generally do not expect access to your restroom and will use a public restroom or portable restroom if available. However, this should be discussed ahead of time.)
Having these logistics discussed prior to the installation getting started sets expectations and can help avoid frustration and confusion for everyone involved.
Choose One Point Of Contact
There should be one person that will act as the point of contact for the client and also one person as the point of contact for the contractor. This makes communication easier for both parties if there are any questions or concerns that arise during the installation.
Prepare Your Property For Installation
Installations are active worksites with a lot of activity. To keep everyone safe, as well as ensure a smooth start to your installation, we strongly advise doing the following:
- Clear your walkways and other areas that your contractor will need to pass through.
- Cover any areas, such as flower beds, that cannot be moved in order to protect from falling debris.
- Pets and children should be secured inside the home or at another safe location throughout the installation.
- Make sure there is room on your property for a dumpster.
Inform Your Neighbors
Metal roof installations involve a lot of noise that can be a disturbance. In order to stay on the good side of your neighbors, we recommend informing them of the dates when your roof installation will be taking place as a courtesy.
What You Should Expect During Your Metal Roof Installation
A roof installation is a noisy process. If you plan on being home, which many contractors prefer in case of any issues, keep in mind that you will often hear the installation and may even feel it as well.
While we understand the urge to peek and see what’s going on, we highly advise staying out of the way during working hours. Keep in mind that your home or building will be an active construction site and there can be debris or other hazards.
What To Expect After A Metal Roof Installation
- Cleanup
- Walkthrough
- Finalizing payments and warranties
Metal Roof Project Cleanup
Once your installation is complete, there is a significant amount of cleanup that your contractor will have to do. In addition, anything that needed to be moved should be put back to its original spot.
The dumpster generally will not be picked up on the same day the work is completed. However, dumpster pickup should be scheduled and you should be informed of when to expect it being removed from your property.
Performing A Walkthrough Of A New Metal Roof
The project walk through should be done with your contractor at least 2 days after the installation is complete, including cleanup. This gives you time to check out your new roof and make sure the work is satisfactory. The final walkthrough gives you an opportunity to ask any questions or address concerns you have.
Finalizing Payments And Warranties
While payment plans and any material, workmanship or paint warranties should have been discussed prior to signing the contract, you can tie up any loose ends when it comes to payment or warranties with your contractor after the installation. Now is also when your contractor should confirm if they provide or offer any future metal roof maintenance.
Get Ready For Your Metal Roof Installation
Once you are ready to schedule your installation, prepare your property and set up a point of contact with your contractor for clear communication during the installation. Once your work is completed, make sure you are satisfied with the completed work and address any concerns you have with your contractor.
As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, before you start thinking about your roof’s installation, you need to decide:
- What type of metal roof to install
- Which contractor you are going to use (we recommend getting multiple bids)
For help choosing which panel profile and color to choose for your metal roof, we highly recommend using our Metal Roof Color Visualizer.
