4 min read

Benefits of a Project Manager for Your Roof Replacement

A roof replacement is a substantial undertaking, and the key to a successful project often lies in the hands of the project manager. This individual plays a pivotal role in overseeing every aspect of the replacement, from the initial planning stages to the final completion. Their responsibilities encompass ensuring that the project adheres to the schedule and budget, among other crucial tasks.

For over three decades, On Tops Roofing has been serving homeowners in Raleigh and the surrounding areas with top-quality roofing services. Our commitment to delivering a seamless roofing experience led us to assign project managers to all our replacement projects. We understand the importance of providing homeowners with peace of mind, knowing their roofing projects are well-organized and managed effectively.

To help you understand the value of having a project manager on-site for your replacement, we've compiled a list of the top four benefits that come with their presence throughout the project. These benefits contribute to the smooth execution and successful completion of your roofing project.

Safety First

Most roof replacement projects can be completed in one or two days, but this speed can make the process seem less intense than it is. A roof replacement is a major construction project with all the risks that come with working at heights and with construction equipment. 

Unsafe Jobsite Picture

 

Common Safety Hazards at a Roof Replacement

  • Heights: depending on your home, sometimes crews are working more than 40 feet up on the ridge of your roof.
  • Tools: circular saws, shears, hammers, pneumatic nail guns, razors, and other tools are required.
  • Heat: many roofing projects take place in the summer when temperatures on the roof can be 10 degrees warmer than on the ground.

So, how does having a project manager at the job help with safety?

If your project has an on-site project manager, they are usually responsible for having regular safety meetings with the crew.

In fact, OSHA requires identification and documentation of any safety hazards that exist. Having a project manager on-site, who is trained to identify any safety concerns, is important to make sure all the OSHA guidelines are being followed.

Most roof replacement have similar hazards, but sometimes unique challenges exist that should be identified and discussed.

Safety meeting for a roof replacement

Project managers are often given more safety training than other members of the crew, specifically on identifying potential hazards. They are also more likely to be looking from the ground, able to see any potential accidents before they happen. We have also found that having someone responsible for the safety at the jobsite as a part of their official duties ensures more focus is put on following protocols. 

Project Planning

A critical aspect of any roofing project is meticulous project planning, and this is precisely where the project manager shines. Their role involves estimating the time required to complete your roof replacement and strategically assigning tasks to teams with varying skill sets, including carpentry, shingle installation, and clean-up crews.

Roofing materials waiting for install

Moreover, the project manager is responsible for precisely calculating the materials needed for the project. They orchestrate the planning and scheduling of material deliveries, ensuring that essential components like structural timber, shingles, guttering, and fascia boards are readily available when each phase of the project demands them.

Additionally, they are in charge of planning and procuring any other necessary equipment to facilitate the seamless execution of the roofing project. This meticulous planning and organization help ensure that the project remains on schedule and within budget, providing homeowners with a smooth and efficient roof replacement experience.

Assembling the Team

Assembling a proficient and reliable team of roofers is a crucial component of any successful roof replacement project, and this is precisely within the realm of responsibility for the project manager. While some roofing companies rely on subcontractors who work only for the duration of a specific project, On Tops Roofing takes a different approach. We maintain a consistent and dedicated crew that works on every project, ensuring homeowners never have to question who's working on their roof.people working on the roof_WebP-1

Once this skilled team is in place, they can commence work on your roof replacement project. The project manager assumes the pivotal role of being on-site to provide clear instructions regarding the order of tasks and to keep everyone on schedule. Throughout the project, the project manager meticulously inspects the quality of work to ensure it consistently meets the highest standards. Additionally, they stand ready to offer guidance and assistance to their team should any unexpected challenges arise during the course of your project. This unwavering support and oversight from the project manager help guarantee a successful and stress-free roof replacement experience for homeowners.

Property Protection

A roof replacement project culminates with the essential step of clean-up, and this phase cannot be underestimated. It's quite common for the vicinity around your home to become somewhat messy during the process, as various materials such as flashing, felt, shingles, and nails, along with other roofing debris, may dislodge from the roof. To ensure your property remains safe and pristine throughout the replacement, it's imperative to collaborate with a diligent project manager who will oversee comprehensive clean-up procedures at every stage:

Before Installation: Your project manager will guide you on safeguarding your property before the roofing work commences. While certain tasks like moving your vehicle and taking down wall decor are at your discretion, the project manager will ensure you are well-prepared. As roofing materials are replaced, debris may fall onto your patio and deck. Your project manager will advise you on protecting vulnerable items such as patio furniture, potted plants, and grills by covering them with tarps or plywood before the project begins. They will also recommend covering your landscaping with tarps and plywood to guard against dust and debris accumulation. Furthermore, you should remove any hanging or potted plants that might be susceptible to falling debris.tarps photo_WebP-2

After Installation: Following the completion of the roofing work, the project manager will direct their team to employ a potent backpack blower to eliminate debris or any leftover granules that might have dislodged from the shingles during the replacement. They will also ensure that your gutters and window seals are either meticulously cleaned by hand or with a leaf blower to eliminate loose debris and nails.

Post-Inspection: The ultimate phase of a roof replacement involves a post-inspection conducted by the project manager. During this inspection, they meticulously assess your yard and landscaping to pinpoint any debris that may have been inadvertently overlooked during the initial clean-up process. To guarantee your yard is entirely free of stray nails, the project manager deploys two distinct magnets: a compact handheld magnet designed for shrubbery and flower beds, and a larger magnet on wheels that thoroughly scans your yard. This rigorous clean-up process is integral to delivering a finished roof replacement project that leaves your property immaculate and secure.

So, What's Next?

Every successful, high-quality roofing project requires the leadership of an organized project manager. Now that you know this, you may be wondering how to secure the best project manager for your roof replacement.

Here’s the short answer–work with a certified roofing company! Certified roofing contractors have gone through years of training, numerous installs and repairs, and upheld a consistent record of proper material installation. If the company you hire for your replacement is certified, then so is their project manager.

On Tops Roofing has been helping Raleigh-area homeowners with their roofing needs since 1991! Whatever your roof requires, We’re on it!

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