A roof replacement is a significant investment, both financially and in terms of time. Whether your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, has been damaged in a storm, or simply needs a fresh look, understanding the process can help make the experience much smoother. If you’re wondering what to expect during a roof replacement, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process from start to finish, so you know exactly what will happen and when.
The Initial Consultation and Estimate
Before the project kicks off, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with a professional roofing contractor. This is where the process starts and often involves a thorough inspection of your current roof. The contractor will check for any signs of damage, wear, or areas that may need special attention.
What happens during this phase:
- Roof Inspection: The contractor will inspect your roof’s condition, including shingles, flashing, gutters, and decking.
- Estimate Provided: After the inspection, the contractor will provide an estimate for the job. This includes the cost of materials, labor, and any additional repairs that may be needed.
- Material Options: If you haven’t already chosen your roofing material, now is the time to discuss your options. Depending on your budget, style preferences, and the climate in your area, you might choose asphalt shingles, metal roofing, tiles, or other materials.
Once you agree on the estimate and materials, you’ll set a date for the replacement to begin. Be prepared to make a deposit or payment up front.
Prepping for the Roof Replacement Day
On the day your roof replacement is scheduled to begin, there are a few things you can expect and prepare for to help ensure the process runs smoothly.
What you should do:
- Clear the Area Around Your Home: To allow the roofing crew to work safely and efficiently, clear any outdoor furniture, potted plants, or vehicles that might be in the way.
- Protect Your Belongings: Roofing projects can get messy, and debris might fall, so it’s wise to move any valuables or fragile items away from the work area, especially if you have an attic or high ceilings.
- Communicate with Your Contractor: Make sure you have a clear understanding of the timeline and any specifics. If you have concerns or specific requests, now is the time to communicate those with your contractor.
What the contractor will do:
- Delivery of Materials: The roofing materials will likely be delivered to your home on the day the project begins, so you might see large stacks of shingles or other materials arrive early in the morning.
- Setting Up Equipment: The roofing crew will bring their tools and set up safety equipment. This includes ladders, scaffolding (if needed), and safety harnesses.
The Roof Removal (Tear-Off)
Once everything is in place, the roofing crew will begin the most important phase of the replacement: removing the old roof. This step is called the “tear-off” and involves stripping away the old shingles, underlayment, and sometimes the decking if it’s too damaged to reuse.
What to expect during the tear-off:
- Noise and Disruption: This is the noisiest part of the job, as the crew will be using tools like hammers, crowbars, and shovels to remove the old roofing materials. Expect loud banging and scraping sounds for several hours.
- Debris and Dust: There will likely be a lot of debris falling from the roof. While most reputable contractors will take steps to protect your landscaping and yard with tarps or plastic sheeting, some dust and debris may still land in surrounding areas. It’s a good idea to stay inside during this phase, especially if you have young children or pets.
- Inspection of the Decking: Once the old roof is removed, the crew will inspect the decking (the plywood or boards that make up the structure of your roof). If the decking is in bad shape or compromised, it may need to be replaced, which could add some time and cost to the project.
Roof Decking and Underlayment Installation
Once the old roof is removed and the decking has been inspected or replaced, the contractor will install a new underlayment. This is a protective layer between the decking and the shingles that helps prevent leaks.
What happens next:
- Installation of Underlayment: The contractor will roll out and staple down a protective underlayment (often felt paper or synthetic underlayment), which acts as a moisture barrier.
- Edge Protection: The edges of the roof are often treated with a special material to help prevent water infiltration, especially along the eaves.
Installing the New Roof
Now comes the fun part—installing your new roof! The contractor will begin laying down your chosen roofing material, starting from the bottom and working upward. Depending on the material, this can take anywhere from one to a few days.
What to expect during this phase:
- Shingle Installation: The crew will carefully install each layer of shingles or tiles, ensuring proper overlap to prevent water from seeping through. If you’re using a material like metal roofing, the installation process might look a little different but follows the same basic principles.
- Flashing and Ventilation: Flashing is installed around areas like chimneys, skylights, and vents to keep water from getting in. Proper ventilation will also be installed to ensure that air flows properly in the attic, preventing heat buildup and moisture.
- Progressive Completion: As the new roof is installed, you’ll see the project begin to take shape. If it’s a large roof, the work may be divided over a couple of days.
The Final Touches and Cleanup
Once the roofing materials are fully installed, the contractor will inspect everything to ensure the roof is watertight and structurally sound. Any final details, such as trimming edges, installing ridge caps, or adding finishing touches to flashing, will be completed.
What to expect during this phase:
- Cleanup: The roofing crew will clean up the site thoroughly, including picking up debris, nails, and other materials. They will use specialized equipment like magnetic rollers to ensure no nails are left behind.
- Final Inspection: The contractor will walk you through the finished roof, checking for any issues. You’ll also receive a warranty for both the materials and the workmanship.
- Post-Installation Advice: The contractor may provide you with maintenance tips, such as how to check for leaks, clean gutters, and what to look out for in the future.
What Happens After the Roof Is Complete?
Once the roof replacement is complete, your home will be ready to handle the elements with a fresh, durable new roof. You can feel confident that your roof will last for many years, and your home will be protected from the elements.
Replacing your roof is a big investment in your home’s safety and longevity, and knowing what to expect throughout the process can help you feel more confident. At Over The Top Roofing, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from start to finish.
Our experienced team will ensure clear communication, high-quality materials, and expert workmanship. We understand roof replacements can feel overwhelming, but with us, you can trust that you’re in good hands and that we’ll deliver lasting peace of mind.