Having a new roof installed can be a stressful time for any homeowner, especially if you don’t know what to expect. And if roof replacement day is approaching, you may be wondering what all it entails. This is why we’ve created, “The Roofing Process: Step-by-Step Guide,” in order to create peace of mind when it comes to your new roof investment.
From the delivery of materials to inspecting the finished product, there are quite a few steps your contractor will take to ensure a properly-installed roof. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what those steps are. Keep reading as we detail the roofing process in our step-by-step guide, and feel confident and prepared on the day of your roof replacement.
Table of Contents
– The 8-Step Roofing Process: Step-by-Step Guide
– Roofing Materials are Delivered
– Vehicles Moved Out of the Way
– Property Protection
– Old Roof is Torn Off
– Gutters Cleaned Out
– Roofing Materials Installed
– Clean-Up Process
– Inspecting Workmanship
– Hiring a Roofing Contractor
The 8-Step Roofing Process: Step-by-Step Guide
When it comes to installing a new roof, no day is as important as installation day. In order to have a stunning roof that lasts as long as it should, as well as peace of mind, your roof must be installed using the correct roofing techniques. Some contractors will take short cuts or disregard details, but proper roof installation is crucial to the health and longevity of your roof.
So, while the exact steps taken will vary from roofer to roofer, a reputable contractor will take the proper steps listed below. This is just one reason why it’s so important to do your due diligence when hiring a roofing contractor. With that in mind, below are the steps an experienced and knowledgable roofing contractor will take to replace your roof.
Roofing Materials are Delivered
Above you can see pallets of roofing materials awaiting roofers on build day
The first step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide” is having all of the roofing materials delivered to your home. Your roofing contractor will usually have the necessary materials delivered the afternoon before or the morning of your scheduled roof replacement. This will vary depending on the size of your roof.
When your roofing materials are delivered, it’s important that they’re stored in a dry area near the roof access point. We also recommend not allowing delivery multiple days in advance. If heavy pallets of shingles are sitting on your lawn for multiple days, this could cause damage to your grass and landscaping.
Vehicles Moved Out of the Way
Vehicles must be moved from the driveway on roof replacement day
The second step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide” involves moving vehicles. On build day, your contractor will ensure that all vehicles are moved out of your driveway. If you have a vehicle in the garage, that’s okay, as long as it won’t be used during the replacement.
All of this is to ensure that you can come and go as you need to. With proper preparation, roof replacement day shouldn’t stop you from going about business as usual. This also protects your vehicles from any debris that could potentially fall from your roof.
Property Protection
Tarp is strategically placed in order to protect your property during the roof replacement process
The third step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide” is preparing for the tear-off process. This is to protect your property and landscaping. For instance, contractors will tarp the ground where they intend to dump the old roofing materials, and they’ll cover your landscaping, as well.
Old Roof is Torn Off
Roofers tear off the old roof in sections to prepare for installation of the new roofing materials
The fourth step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide” is tearing the old roof off. Your contractor will tear your old roof off in sections, starting on the furthest corner of your roof, away from the driveway. This way, they’re always moving towards the dump trailer and the new roofing materials.
This will depend on the roofing company you hire, but typically, once a section is torn off, some of the roofers will stay behind and begin installing the new roof. The other roofers will continue with the tear off process. This time-saving technique makes for a faster install and less foot traffic on your roof.
Gutters Cleaned Out
Cleaning out gutters is a crucial step in the roofing process
The fifth step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide” involves your gutter system. Once a section is torn off and cleaned up, your gutters will be cleaned out, as well. Any roofing debris from the tear-off process, as well as leaves and other blockages, will be removed from your gutters.
We find it important to mention that build day shouldn’t be the only time your gutters are cleaned out. In fact, it should be done regularly as part of your roof maintenance routine. This will improve the overall health of your roof, setting it up for success and to last as long as it should.
Roofing Materials Installed
Contractor installing new asphalt shingles
For the sixth step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide,” it’s time to start installing the new roofing materials. Once the tear-off process is complete and your gutters are cleaned out, your roofer will start to install your new roof. They will work their way around the house by sections, in the order that it was torn off.
Once a section is torn off, your roofer will lay underlayment and install the drip edge. Then, they’ll install your starter shingles and shingles using proper installation techniques. When that’s complete, they’ll put on all the ridge capping, then the vents to ensure adequate roof/attic ventilation. Proper installation and attic ventilation are key when it comes to a long-lasting roof.
Clean-Up Process
Elite Exteriors uses a large magnet to collect roofing nails and other metal debris left behind after a roof replacement
The seventh step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide” is to clean up. Once your new roof is successfully installed, they’ll blow off your roof so that all the debris makes it to the dump tarps. They will blow out the gutters and downspouts to clear them of any lingering roofing debris, as well.
When they’re finished on your roof, your roofers will make their way to the ground, and spend a couple of hours cleaning up. They will roll up tarps, collect their tools, and make sure the ground is cleaned up. They will even comb over your lawn with a large magnet, to ensure there are no roofing nails left behind.
Inspecting Workmanship
Roofer inspects his finished product
The eighth and final step in our “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide” takes place once the roof is replaced and your property has been cleaned up. Your contractor will get on your roof, inspect it in great detail, and ensure they provided quality craftsmanship to be proud of. A roof replacement is a large investment, and all parties want to be sure the finished product is of the highest standards.
Your contractor will check around penetrations, skylights, chimneys, and other areas that are known to leak, to make sure they are protected. No matter who you hire, your contractor should always inspect their workmanship. This is to ensure it was installed properly, and that all local codes have been followed.
Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Hiring a reputable roofing contractor is vital to a successful roof replacement
After reading our 8-Step “Roofing Process Step-by-Step Guide,” you now know what to expect when it comes time for your roof replacement. Knowing what to expect can alleviate anxiety and create peace of mind when it comes to your new roof. For more information on how to prepare your home for a roof replacement, check out our blog, “Tips for Roof Replacement [How to Prepare Your Home].”
One of the best ways to prepare for a roof replacement, however, is to hire a vetted and experienced contractor you trust to get the job done. If you want your new roof to be high-quality and stand the test of time, then you need a high-quality roofing contractor. Investing in quality from the start is a great way to make sure you’re left with a new roof you’re proud to show off.
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Elite Exteriors is the Southeast’s premier residential and commercial resource for unparalleled service, superior craftsmanship, and incomparable quality – all backed by an unprecedented lifetime labor and materials warranty! If you’re in the market for a roof replacement, give Elite Exteriors a call today at 470-350-3024 for a FREE initial consultation and inspection, or fill out our online form for more information.