What to expect during a roof replacement, step by step

Before the work: estimate, materials and scheduling

Omega Exteriors works through a project in four steps: a free project price, selecting materials and color, scheduling the installation, and the installation itself. The estimate starts with an inspection of the existing roof, so the price reflects your house: its size, its pitch, the number of layers to remove and the condition of what is underneath.

Choosing materials is the fun part. You will pick the type of roof, such as asphalt shingles, metal or stone-coated steel, and a color that suits the house. Our guide to roofing materials can help you narrow it down before the estimate. Then the installation is scheduled, with weather in mind, since roofs are not replaced in rain or high wind.

1. Free project price, after an inspection of the existing roof
2. Select materials and color
3. Schedule the installation
4. Installation

Getting your home ready

A roof replacement is loud and the hammering carries through the house, so a little preparation goes a long way. Tell your neighbors, and plan for pets and young children, who may be happier elsewhere on work days.

• Move cars out of the garage and driveway so the crew can work and park a trailer or dumpster.
• Take pictures, mirrors and shelves off walls on the top floor; vibration can shake them loose.
• Cover belongings stored in the attic, since dust and small debris can fall through.
• Move patio furniture, grills and planters away from the house.
• Mark sprinkler heads, septic covers and anything in the yard the crew should avoid.
• Make sure the crew can reach an outdoor power outlet.

Tear-off and the roof deck

The first work day usually starts with removing the old roofing. Old shingles, underlayment and worn flashing come off and go straight into a dumpster or trailer, with tarps and protection around the house to catch debris.

With the old roof off, the roof deck is exposed. This is when soft, rotted or damaged boards show up, often from past leaks that never showed inside. Damaged decking is replaced so the new roof has a solid base. If it is needed, your contractor should explain what was found before replacing it.

Installing the new roof

Once the deck is sound, the new roof goes on in layers. An underlayment covers the deck, with an ice and water barrier commonly used along the eaves and in valleys in cold climates. New metal drip edge goes along the edges, and flashing is installed around chimneys, walls, vents and skylights, where most leaks start. Then the roofing itself goes on, followed by ridge caps and roof vents.

On Omega Exteriors' asphalt shingle and metal roof installations, the crew starts by removing the old materials and preparing the roof deck, then installs the new roofing and secures it to stand up to the weather.

How long it takes

Many roof replacements on a typical home take one to a few days. Larger or steeper roofs, more complicated roof shapes, extra layers to remove, damaged decking and some materials take longer, and weather can pause the work. Ask for an expected schedule during your estimate, and expect the crew to cover any open areas if the weather turns.

Cleanup and the final walkthrough

When the roof is done, the crew cleans up debris from the roof, gutters, yard and driveway. Roofing nails are easy to miss in grass, so a magnetic sweeper is commonly run over the yard and drive. Afterward, walk the property yourself, too, and check the gutters and flower beds.

Omega Exteriors describes its work as running from first call to final walkthrough. The walkthrough is your chance to look at the finished roof, ask questions and get the paperwork for your new roof. Keep it with your home records.

Ready to start?

If you are deciding whether you need a new roof at all, start with our guide to roof repair or replacement. When you are ready, Omega Exteriors provides roof replacement and roof installation across Minnesota and Wisconsin, and offers financing. Call (651) 998-8500 or request a free estimate.