If your asphalt shingles are close to two decades old, a roof replacement may be necessary to keep your home protected from the elements. While this process has many benefits—including improving your property's energy efficiency and curb appeal—it does sometimes come with a unique smell. To learn about this and how to prepare, consult the guide below.

What Smells Are Associated With Roof Replacement?

The sealant used on roofing shingles emits gas when it melts and sets. This is a normal step in the process, meant to keep shingles in place, but the smell is usually notable in a homeowner's attic or crawlspaces for a few days following installation. Asphalt shingles also have a tar layer; the scent of this may get stronger when temperatures rise, lasting anywhere from a few weeks to months.

What Steps Should You Take?

A meticulous, quality roofing contractor will take precautions to reduce roof replacement odors. Usually, these smells are strongest when the materials used aren't of quality or when specific steps aren't adhered to, like checking attic ventilation.

To ensure you hire a reputable company, always ask to see credentials and testimonials from past clients before hiring. Ask that they remove old shingles first and that they use a synthetic underlayment free from cancer-causing VOCs like formaldehyde and benzene.

Ensure attic ventilation is clear of obstructions and use turbine vents to help move the odor out more quickly. The better the attic vents, the less you will smell lingering tar odors. Also, check that your attic is sealed from the rest of the living space with tar paper or similar underlayment products that can protect your house from roofing smells.

If you are still smelling tar after ventilating, try sprinkling baking soda on your carpets since it acts as a natural deodorizer that also absorbs strong odors. Air fresheners in each room also help, as do aromatic plants like eucalyptus.

When your property needs a roof replacement or storm damage repair after inclement weather, trust Rams Roofing & Restoration Inc. Located in Fort Collins, CO, and serving customers throughout northern Colorado, the roofing contractor offers top materials, quality work, and affordable pricing for every project. They also provide a 20-year workmanship warranty. To make an appointment for your next roof installation or repair, call (970) 660-7267 (RAMS). Stop by their website to review their FAQ page. Read satisfied customer reviews on Google.