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A smooth roof job starts with smart prep. It protects your home, saves time, and reduces stress. For expert help in Utah, see our team for Residential Roofing Lehi.

One Month to One Week Before

Confirm the plan with your contractor

Review scope, materials, and color. Ask about tear-off, underlayment, ice shield, ventilation, and flashing. Confirm the start date, daily schedule, and crew size. Share access needs, pets, and alarm codes. Get proof of license and insurance.

Handle permits and HOA rules

Most cities require a roofing permit. Your contractor often pulls it, but verify. If you have an HOA, submit the shingle or metal sample for approval. Keep a copy of approvals in your files.

Book a dumpster and parking

Crews need space for a roll-off dumpster and delivery truck. Clear the driveway, and park on the street. Move trailers and boats. Ask if a catch-all net or ground tarp will protect your yard.

Three Days Before

Protect the attic and interior

Roof work shakes dust and debris loose. Cover stored items in the attic with plastic. Lay sheets over beds and furniture below roof lines. Take down wall art, mirrors, and light décor to prevent falls.

Prep the yard and exterior

Cut grass short so nails are easy to find with a magnet. Move patio sets, grills, planters, and toys away from the house. Fold in grill side shelves. Roll up hoses. Mark sprinkler heads and landscape lights with flags.

Safeguard fragile items

Cover hot tubs and pools. Use plywood over delicate garden beds. If you have a pond, add a tarp to keep out debris. Note any solar, satellite dish, or antenna that needs removal and reset.

The Night Before

Clear access paths

Unlock gates. Remove cars from the garage and driveway. Open outdoor power outlets for tools. Set aside a 110-volt circuit for the crew.

Plan for kids and pets

Roofing is loud. Arrange a quiet place for kids and pets during work hours. Keep dogs leashed for quick yard checks after crews leave.

Installation Day

Meet the crew lead

Walk the property together. Point out delicate gutters, skylights, and garden areas. Confirm where materials will be staged. Ask about bathroom access for the crew if needed.

Protect windows, siding, and gutters

Request ladder guards and foam against siding. Check that gutters and downspouts have padding where debris may fall. Make sure tarps or a catch-all protect plants and decks.

Power and safety checks

Confirm GFCI outlets work for compressors and nailers. Ask about fall protection and harness use. Keep children away from ladders and staging zones.

After Tear-Off

Inspect the roof deck

Ask for photos of the sheathing before felt or synthetic underlayment goes down. Replace rotten or delaminated plywood. Verify proper drip edge, ice barrier, and starter shingles.

Confirm ventilation and flashings

Balance intake and exhaust vents to protect the new roof. Check new flashing at chimneys, skylights, and wall joints. Use metal that matches code and manufacturer specs.

Clean-Up and Final Walkthrough

Nail sweep and debris removal

Request a full magnetic sweep of lawn, flower beds, and driveway. Check gutters for shingle grit and stray nails. Ensure the dumpster departs the same day or next morning.

Review warranties and records

Collect your material warranty and workmanship warranty. Note the start date and coverage terms. Keep delivery slips, photos, and permits in one folder. Schedule a free first-year inspection if offered.

Budget and Timing Tips

• Ask for an early morning delivery to avoid traffic.
  
• Choose off-peak weeks for better scheduling.
  
• Add ridge vents or thicker underlayment now, not later.
  
• Keep a small contingency for wood repair.
  
• Consider impact-rated shingles if hail risk is high.
  

Quick Prep Checklist

• Permit and HOA approval in hand
  
• Driveway clear, dumpster space marked
  
• Attic and rooms covered, art removed
  
• Yard cleared, plants and pools protected
  
• Pets planned for, kids informed
  
• Final walk set with the crew lead
  

A clean site, clear access, and good records make your roof replacement faster and safer. With simple prep, your home, yard, and new shingles will look great when the crew rolls out.