Replacing a roof is not exactly a quiet process. The majority of activities involved in a roof replacement create significant noise that can be heard throughout your home and even by your neighbors, but when we talk about the loudest part of replacing a roof, it's definitely nailing and drilling. 

In this article, we will discuss in greater detail how loud a roof replacement is and what to expect. If you are looking for a professional, quick roof replacement for your home, we are here to assist you. Just give us a call at (412) 353-5660.

What Different Noises Will You Hear During a Roof Replacement?

Since a roof replacement has various phases, each part of the project involves its own sounds, varying in how loud they are.

During the tear-off phase, which is the initial phase of the roof replacement, you'll hear the scratching and scraping of tools as workers remove your old shingles. This creates continuous noise that might remind you of loud raking or scraping. You'll also hear the sound of old materials being tossed into disposal containers, creating irregular thumping noises.

Once the tear-off is complete, the installation phase brings new sounds. As we mentioned already, the sound of nail guns securing new shingles to your roof deck is the most noticeable. These nail guns can produce noise levels similar to a loud power tool, around 85 to 95 decibels. This creates a sharp, repetitive sound that can echo through your home and even the neighborhood. 

You'll also hear the steady footsteps of workers moving across your roof and the rustling of materials being positioned and secured.

How Will the Noise Affect Your Daily Lifestyle?

By now it’s pretty obvious that the noise from a roof replacement will impact your daily routine. For instance, if you work from home, you might find it especially challenging to focus on tasks or participate effectively in virtual meetings. 

Phone conversations might require you to find a quieter space or reschedule, and the unfamiliar sounds can be irritating for your pets, who might become anxious or scared.  Keep in mind that if you have young children, especially those who nap during the day, you might find the noise disruptive to their sleep schedules.

The noise levels also vary depending on your home's layout and where you are in the house. 

Upper floors generally experience more intense noise than lower levels, and rooms directly under the work area will naturally be the loudest. The good news is that most of the intense noise happens in phases, giving you periodic breaks throughout the day, and roofing is never typically done at night! 

What Can You Do to Manage the Noise?

Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to handle the noise during your roof replacement. If you need a quiet environment for work, consider temporarily relocating to a local library, coffee shop, or co-working space. For pets, arrange a playdate or board them at a familiar facility to help reduce their stress. 

Using noise-canceling headphones, or consider creating a "quiet room" in your home by adding temporary sound barriers like heavy blankets over doors and windows in one specific area. For those sensitive to noise, taking regular breaks outside the house can help. A walk around the neighborhood or a lunch break at a nearby cafe can provide some relief from the construction sounds. 

Remember, the noise is temporary, and the end result will be worth the short-term disruption.

How Should You Plan for Your Upcoming Roof Replacement?

To plan for your upcoming replacement, we recommend taking a proactive approach to planning your roof replacement. Start by identifying any upcoming important events or deadlines that might conflict with the noise. Consider scheduling your replacement during a time when you might already be away from home or when it would cause the least disruption to your family's routine.

It's also thoughtful to inform your neighbors about the upcoming project. This courtesy helps them prepare for the temporary noise and shows consideration for your community.

Most roof replacements take between one to three days, depending on your roof's size and complexity. The timing can also differ depending on the type of roofing material you choose. For example, asphalt shingles are generally installed more quickly than materials like slate or tile, reducing the amount of noise that occurs during the project.

How Can You Prepare Your Home for the Noise?

Beyond managing the noise itself, there are several practical steps that you can take to protect your home during the replacement:

👉 Move valuable or fragile items away from walls, as vibrations can cause things to shift

👉 Secure any wall hangings or artwork that might be affected by the vibrations

👉 Consider relocating delicate items like glassware to a safer location

👉 Move your vehicles away from the work area to prevent any accidental damage from falling debris

👉 Keep all the doors and windows closed to reduce dust and noise infiltration

Get A Professional Roof Replacement In Pennsylvania

If you're considering a roof replacement in Pittsburgh, PA, or the surrounding areas, reach out to McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC. We'll work with you to create a plan that minimizes disruption while ensuring your new roof provides the protection your home needs. 

Our experienced team is always here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to project completion. Call us today at (412) 353-5660 to discuss all your roofing requirements and learn more about how we can make your roof replacement experience as smooth as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions