A roof replacement is one of the biggest home improvement projects you’ll face as a homeowner. The typical process includes removing old shingles, inspecting the roof deck for damage, making necessary repairs, and installing new roofing materials from the underlayment to the final shingles.
The process typically takes 1-3 days, depending on your home’s size and roof complexity. During this time, you’ll experience some noise and activity around your property as the roofing team works to transform your home.
A new roof does more than just protect your home from the elements. It provides peace of mind during storms and improves your home’s curb appeal. Many homeowners are surprised by how much a fresh roof can transform their home’s overall appearance and potentially increase its value.
Preparing for Roof Replacement
Proper preparation before a roof replacement makes the process smoother and helps protect your home during construction. Proactive planning can save you stress and ensure the project goes as expected.
Initial Assessment and Estimate
The first step is scheduling an initial roof inspection with qualified contractors. During this inspection, contractors will examine your roof’s condition, identify existing problems, and measure the roof area.
A professional estimator will check for:
- Structural issues
- Water damage
- Number of existing shingle layers
- Condition of flashing and vents
The estimate should include materials, labor, removal of old roofing, and disposal fees. Ask about potential additional costs for unforeseen damage that might be discovered during installation. Ensure the estimate includes a timeline for completion and payment terms. This initial assessment establishes expectations for the project scope.
Selecting Your Roofing Materials
Choosing the right materials impacts your roof’s appearance, durability, and cost. Color and style choices should complement your home’s architecture, and your contractor should provide samples to view. Take time to examine these in different lighting conditions around your property before deciding.
Common roofing options include:
- Asphalt shingles: Affordable, versatile, 15-30 year lifespan
- Metal roofing: Durable, energy-efficient, 40-70 year lifespan
- Slate or tile: Premium appearance, very long-lasting, higher cost
Consider your climate when selecting materials, as some perform better in high winds while others excel in hot or cold regions. Always ask about warranty options for both materials and workmanship. Premium materials often come with longer manufacturer warranties.
Protecting Property and Belongings
Before work begins, take steps to protect your home and belongings. Remove valuables from the attic, as dust and debris may filter down during installation. Clear your yard of toys, outdoor furniture, and potted plants, and move vehicles away from the house to avoid damage from falling debris and to give workers access.
Inside your home:
- Remove wall hangings, especially on top floors
- Cover belongings in the attic with tarps
- Secure items on shelves that might vibrate during hammering
Outside your property:
- Trim tree branches that might interfere with work
- Identify sprinkler heads and fragile landscaping
- Mark areas for material delivery and debris containers
Inform neighbors about the upcoming project, especially if the work will affect shared driveways or property lines. Good preparation helps the project run efficiently and protects your investment.
The Roof Replacement Process
The roof replacement process involves several key steps that transform your old, worn roof into a new, protective covering for your home. Each phase builds on the previous one to ensure a properly installed roof that will last for years.
Removing the Old Roof
The first step in replacing your roof is removing the existing materials. Your roofing contractor will strip away all old shingles, felt paper, and flashing down to the roof deck. This work typically begins at the peak and moves downward, with workers using special tear-off tools to pry up the materials.
The crew will place tarps around your home to catch falling debris. This protects your landscaping and makes cleanup easier. They’ll also bring a dumpster to collect all the old roofing materials.
During this phase, you’ll need to stay clear of the work area, as the removal process creates a lot of noise and falling debris, which can be hazardous. However, most professional teams can remove an entire roof in a single day, though this depends on your roof’s size and complexity.
Repairing the Roof Deck
Once the old roof is removed, your contractor will inspect the roof deck for damage. The roof deck is the wooden layer (usually plywood or OSB) that forms the foundation for your roof. They’ll look for signs of rot, water damage, or warping. Any damaged sections must be replaced to ensure a solid base for your new roof. This step is critical because installing new roofing over damaged decking can lead to serious problems later.
The contractor will replace damaged boards and secure any loose sections. They’ll also check that all nails are flush with the surface to prevent them from pushing through your new roof. This inspection and repair phase is essential for the long-term performance of your roof. It might add time to the project, but it’s an investment in your roof’s longevity.
Applying New Underlayment
After the deck is repaired, your contractor will install a new underlayment, a waterproof or water-resistant barrier that goes between your roof deck and shingles, providing an extra layer of protection. Most contractors start by installing ice and a water shield along the eaves, in valleys, and around protrusions like chimneys. This self-adhering membrane prevents water damage from ice dams and heavy rain.
Next, they’ll cover the remainder of the roof with felt paper or synthetic underlayment. This layer repels water that might get past the shingles and helps regulate roof temperature. The proper installation of underlayment is crucial for your roof’s weather resistance. The materials and techniques used will vary based on your climate and roof design.
Installing the New Roofing
The final major step is installing your chosen roofing material. Whether you’ve selected asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or another option, the installation process follows manufacturer guidelines.
For asphalt shingles, installation typically begins at the eaves and works upward. The contractor will place starter strips along the edges, then lay each row of shingles with careful attention to overlap and nail placement. With metal roofing, the panels or shingles are secured with special fasteners designed for long-term weather resistance. The contractor will ensure proper alignment and sealing at all seams.
Throughout installation, the team will integrate flashing around vents, chimneys, and other penetrations. This metal material directs water away from vulnerable areas and prevents leaks. They’ll also ensure your attic has proper airflow to prevent heat and moisture buildup.
Key Components and Details
A roof replacement involves several critical components that work together to protect your home. Each element serves a specific purpose in creating a watertight, durable roofing system that can withstand years of weather exposure.
Flashing and Drip Edge Installation
Flashing is metal material installed at roof joints and penetrations to prevent water intrusion. We install flashing around chimneys, skylights, vents, and where the roof meets walls. This creates watertight seals at these vulnerable areas.
A drip edge is a metal strip attached along roof edges and eaves, which:
- Directs water away from the fascia and into gutters
- Prevents water from seeping under roofing materials
- Provides a clean, finished edge to the roof
- Helps protect the roof deck from rot and water damage
Incorrectly installed flashing and drip edges can lead to leaks and premature roof failure, even with new shingles installed.
Water Infiltration Protection
Water protection layers form a critical defense against moisture damage. The ice and water shield is a self-adhering waterproof membrane installed in vulnerable areas like valleys, eaves, and around penetrations.
This specialized underlayment:
- Seals around nail penetrations
- Prevents leaks from ice dams in winter
- Creates a secondary water barrier under shingles
Synthetic or felt underlayment will also be installed across the entire roof deck. This provides an additional moisture barrier and protects the deck during installation. Quality underlayment helps keep your home dry even if shingles become damaged during storms, and modern synthetic underlayments offer superior water resistance and durability compared to traditional felt paper.
Starter Shingles and Roofing System Installation
Starter shingles create a crucial first course along roof edges. These specialized strips:
- Seal the edges to prevent wind uplift
- Provide a straight edge for proper shingle alignment
- Add an extra layer of protection at vulnerable roof edges
After starter shingles, the main roofing material is installed in overlapping rows. Whether using asphalt shingles, metal, or other materials, proper nailing patterns and overlap are essential.
The installation process requires attention to detail with:
- Precise measurements and cutting
- Proper nail placement and quantity
- Correct shingle alignment and staggering patterns
- Careful installation around vents and other roof features
Post-Installation and Cleanup
After the installation of your new roof, it’s crucial to complete thorough inspection and cleanup processes. These final steps ensure quality workmanship and return your property to its pre-construction condition.
Final Inspection and Approval
Once the new roofing materials are installed, a comprehensive final inspection will be conducted. This checks for proper shingle placement and ensures there are no missing shingles or installation defects. Flashing points, vents, and edges will also be inspected to verify watertight seals.
The roof inspection includes checking for proper nail placement and confirming that all materials are secured correctly. The team will also look for any potential issues that might affect your roof’s performance or warranty coverage.
Most roofing projects require a final inspection by local building authorities. Your contractor will coordinate this process and address any concerns until your roof replacement project passes all inspections and receives official approval.
Site Cleanup and Waste Removal
Cleanup happens throughout the entire roof replacement process, not just at the end. Roofing crews continuously collect debris while tearing off the old roof and installing the new one. By the time installation is complete, about 95% of waste should already be contained.
After installation, the team will:
- Remove all large debris from the site
- Use magnetic tools to collect nails and metal fragments
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Inspect your yard, driveway, and landscaping
Tarps are used during the roofing project to protect your property and make cleanup easier. All waste materials are properly disposed of according to local regulations, leaving your property in top condition.
Get in touch to discuss our roofing services for a high-quality roof replacement.
