Common Causes of Roofing Delays and How to Avoid Them

Roof replacement is an important project that should always be prioritized. Unfortunately, delays are sometimes unavoidable. Generally, roofing contractors should finish your roofing project on time, but certain factors may cause some setbacks. 

In this post, building renovation expert VillWell Builders, LLC shares the common causes of delays during roof replacement. We also discuss how you can avoid these issues to ensure the timely completion of your roofing project. 

Causes of Delays in Roofing Projects

Bad Weather

Bad weather can interrupt a roofing job. Rain, snow and other severe weather conditions can have an impact on the time line of your project. Depending on the type of roof being installed, one day of rain can result in a two-day delay. Roof decking, trusses and rafters must be completely dry before roof installation or the application of any other roofing layers. Lingering wetness can impair a roof’s function. Furthermore, wet weather also causes adhesives or sealants to dry more slowly, adding to the delay.

Snow and low temperatures may also wreak havoc on roofing materials. Snow removal can create considerable delays in a project’s timetable, depending on how deep the snow is. Furthermore, some roofing products have temperature tolerance restrictions. This means that the temperature outside must be within a specified range during installation. 

To avoid weather delays, tune in to the weather forecast in your area. Most homeowners schedule their roof replacement and siding repair projects during spring or summer to ensure safety and quality. This is the primary reason that many professional roofers are busy during these months. Nevertheless, consult your contractor to figure out the most appropriate time for your roof replacement project – which is often anytime between late spring and early summer.

Structural Problems

Structural faults may be discovered during roof replacement. To install a new roof, the old roof must first be removed and the roof deck should be carefully inspected. In this stage of the roof replacement process, certain issues can be discovered, and they will need to be addressed before the new roof can be installed. 

For example, your roofing contractor may find rafters that have rotted or degraded due to leaks, which may have spread beyond the roof decking. Damaged flashing can also lead to pooling water and shingle degradation. Low areas on your roof may suggest a potential collapse, necessitating the replacement of the decking to maintain the roof’s structural integrity and prevent mold growth. Before a new roof can be installed, damaged roofing components such as vents must also be replaced. Failing block or brick walls must be fixed so that your roof can be properly supported.

Permits

Before any work on a building renovation project can begin, a permit must be obtained. It takes time to submit an application and have it approved. Inspections are frequently required as part of the procedure, and the time it takes to schedule one is determined by the availability of inspectors in your area. Each city has its own rules and regulations, so the process may take longer in some places. Unless you plan ahead, you could be waiting months before you can get a permit. 

Delivery of Roofing Materials

A reputable roofing contractor will order your roofing materials ahead of the project’s start date, ensuring that they arrive on time and in good condition. However, major delays can still occur despite planning and preparation. Suppliers are rarely the manufacturers, and as a result, they are subject to the manufacturer’s schedule, which may change depending on several factors. Supply chain concerns – such as insufficient material availability, shipping backlogs and other challenges – might cause your roofing project to be delayed by several days or even weeks.

Tips to Keep Your Roofing Project on the Right Track

• Finalize your choices during planning. Failure to plan your project and make the necessary selections before beginning work can result in unexpected costs, which could cause you to go over budget. Selecting a material that isn’t readily available from the manufacturer is all right, but be aware that this may require additional effort, delays or higher prices. To avoid such problems, stick to your budget and make sure that all licenses and materials are obtained ahead of time.

• Make sure you’re prepared for contingencies. Always allocate 10% to 20% of your project’s budget to contingencies so that you can accommodate unexpected costs for your roofing or siding repair. Some issues may be overlooked until old roofing materials are removed, and continuing with the installation without the necessary repairs can affect the quality of your roof installation. Furthermore, ignoring such issues can have an impact on your roof’s performance and shorten the roof’s life span.

• Hire a trusted and reliable contractor. Choose a reputable company with a dependable team that works efficiently and has the equipment, training, experience and skills needed for the job. Workers from respectable businesses are usually trained and qualified. They are familiar with the processes and are experienced with specific brands. They understand their responsibilities and are accountable for the work they put out. Concentrate your search on local home improvement contractors. This is to quickly narrow down your options and limit your search to professionals near you. Hiring locally offers significant benefits. For instance, local roofers provide better recommendations because they are more knowledgeable about the local climate and building codes.

• Make sure the contractor knows when you’re available. Keep in mind that home improvement projects are essentially a collaboration between you and your roofer. Clear and consistent communication is critical to the project’s success. That said, inform your roofers regarding the best times when they can reach you as well as your preferred mode of communication. This will make it easier to discuss the progress of your project and receive crucial updates.

For your roof installation needs, choose VillWell Builders, LLC. We are a home improvement contractor that offers high-quality services. Apart from residential roofing, we also handle other projects like siding, decks and home additions, and kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Call us at (203) 879-2118 or fill out our contact form to book an appointment.