It's often easy to give advice to homeowners on how to work with pros who are already working inside your house. However, when certain contractors are working outside, the contractor etiquette is not as clear. The general rule is that if the contractor is working outside, he stays outside. No one thinks to invite the person mowing their lawn inside.

Roofing Contractors
Obviously, roofers will be working outside, so do not think that you need to offer your roofer the use of your restroom, water, or any tools. These things are not part of your contract. Matter of fact, you have only two roles: have a roof, pay the bill. This is quite reductive, but many roofs are torn down and replaced while the homeowners are away. New roof installation is not high maintenance. You choose the material, and the roofers go to work. There are no other decisions to be made.

While your exact responsibilities are few, this does not mean that you can't go above and beyond the call of duty. If you are going to be home, offer your roofers some water and access to your bathroom. Show them a cool spot in your yard or your back patio where they can get a break from the sun and grab a quick bite to eat.

Roof Replacement
Most professional roofers can and will have the old roof off and the new one on in a day. This is not much time for roofers to be at your house considering that kitchen remodels average 5 weeks. So whatever niceties you decide to offer will only last for the day, which makes it even easier on the homeowner to be a likable customer.

Roof replacement happens most often in the summer because it rains less often during that time, and it lessens the chance of the elements penetrating into your home. Because summer is the busy time, most roofing companies are working at a frenetic pace. The best advice is to get out of their way, and let them do their work. If you can provide use of your bathroom, this is likely to speed up their day because they won't have to drive to find a restroom and eat up some of their workday. It will be hot on your roof, so if you see that they might enjoy some cool water or fresh grapes, by all means, be a good client.