The Challenges of Semi-Detached Roofs
In Toronto, we have a significant amount of semi-detached homes. There are several unique considerations when dealing with semi-detached homes.
Talk to your neighbour. Whenever you are trying to do an exterior home renovation project and sometimes with interior home renovation projects, your neighbour will be affected. Go over with your neighbour what you want to do and the time frame. Also, let him/her know if there will be vehicles parked in your driveway or tools left around which might land on his/her property. The more information you can give your neighbour and the more agreement you can get from him/her, the less problems you will have during the project.
Consider doing your roof with your neighbour. This can be cost effective for both and can also make the roof last longer. By doing it together any problems that may be caused by the neighbour could be handled at the same time instead of waiting until they cause problems in the future. It could make it more watertight and more aesthetically pleasing to do the roof at the same time as well.
Colour choice. Do you want the same colour as your neighbour? Or do you want a different colour? This is ultimately your choice but it can often look more coordinated and more aesthetically pleasing to have the houses both matching in colour.
Figure out where vehicles and garbage bins will go. Semi-detached homes can be on small lots with little parking so it is best to work out where things will go before the day when the crew arrives so there is no confusion and so that the job can be carried out as quickly as possible with the least amount of upset or confusion.
Talk about water drainage and down spouts. Make sure that everyone concerned knows where the down spout and water drainage is going so there is no upset. Water drainage is very important from the roof so that leaks can be avoided and so that there is no pooling of water or ice. This is something that may affect the neighbour as well so it is best to discuss all together. If you are not doing your roofs at the same time, the seam between the two houses is very important to be done right so there is no water that is able to come in.
Do your research and get it in writing. Make sure you contact roofing professionals that have experience, liability coverage and WSIB. Make sure you have a written estimate of what is to be done and the costs so there is no confusion and you have something to refer back to. Get all your questions answered prior to any work beginning. Sometimes the lowest quote will not get you the best quality work. Avoid this by making an investment into your home’s health and comfort by getting it done right the first time!
Top Roofers has years of experience, positive reviews from customers, warranties on full roof replacements and WSIB. We always provide a detailed written estimate before work begins. We won’t be the cheapest option but the quality in materials and workmanship provides peace of mind that the roof over your head will last for years.
