Roof Shingle Replacement ProcessWhat to Expect Step by Step
Understanding the replacement process helps you prepare and ensures quality results. Here's exactly what happens from start to finish.
Typical Timeline
Most homes are completed in 1-2 days. Larger or complex roofs may take 2-3 days.
The 7-Step Replacement Process
Pre-Project Preparation
Before the crew arrives, your contractor handles essential preparation:
- Building permits: Pulled from local building department
- Material ordering: Shingles, underlayment, flashing, and accessories ordered
- Delivery coordination: Materials delivered to your property (usually 1-2 days before)
- Project scheduling: Weather monitoring and crew assignment
- HOA coordination: If applicable, notification submitted
Homeowner Tip: Clear your driveway and designate a spot for material storage. Ensure easy access to the work area.
Property Protection Setup
The first thing crews do on arrival is protect your property:
- Landscaping protection: Tarps cover plants, bushes, and flower beds
- Dumpster positioning: Roll-off dumpster placed for debris
- Ground protection: Plywood laid to protect grass and pathways
- Window/AC protection: Covers placed over ground-level windows and AC units
- Vehicle relocation: Cars moved away from the house
Tear-Off Old Roofing
Complete removal of your existing roof system:
- Shingle removal: All existing shingles stripped down to deck
- Underlayment removal: Old felt paper or underlayment removed
- Flashing removal: Old flashing around vents, chimneys, and walls removed
- Debris collection: Materials loaded into tarps and carried to dumpster
- Nail removal: Protruding nails removed or hammered flush
Duration: 2-4 hours for average-sized home. This is the noisiest part of the project.
Deck Inspection & Repair
Critical inspection of your roof's structural foundation:
- Visual inspection: Entire deck checked for damage, rot, or deterioration
- Moisture testing: Soft spots probed for hidden moisture damage
- Damaged section removal: Rotted plywood or OSB cut out
- New decking installed: Replacement sheets nailed to rafters
- Code compliance: Ensure deck meets current building standards
Cost Note: Deck repairs are typically quoted separately. Expect $50-100 per 4x8 sheet replaced. Your contractor should alert you before proceeding.
Install Underlayment & Components
The critical waterproofing layer goes down before shingles:
- Drip edge: Metal edging installed at eaves and rakes to direct water into gutters
- Ice and water shield: Self-adhering membrane at eaves, valleys, and penetrations
- Synthetic underlayment: Water-resistant barrier across entire deck
- Valley flashing: Metal or woven shingle protection in roof valleys
- Pipe boots: New rubber boots around plumbing vents
- Step flashing: Metal pieces where roof meets walls and chimneys
Install New Shingles
The main installation follows a specific sequence:
- Starter strip: First course at eaves provides wind resistance seal
- Field shingles: Main shingles installed bottom-to-top, staggered pattern
- Nail placement: 4-6 nails per shingle in the nailing zone per manufacturer specs
- Valley installation: Cut method or woven method based on design
- Hip and ridge caps: Specialty cap shingles cover roof peaks
- Ridge vent: Ventilation installed along ridge line
Quality Point: Proper nail placement is critical. Nails too high won't secure shingles; too low causes visible bumps and potential leaks.
Final Inspection & Cleanup
Project completion includes thorough cleanup and documentation:
- Quality inspection: Crew leader inspects entire installation
- Debris removal: All materials, packaging, and debris removed from property
- Magnetic nail sweep: Multiple passes with magnet to collect fallen nails
- Gutter cleaning: Gutters cleared of debris from project
- Final walkthrough: Review completed work with homeowner
- Documentation: Warranty paperwork, permit card, and before/after photos provided
What to Expect During the Project
Noise
Expect significant noise during tear-off and nailing. Plan for pets and young children to be elsewhere during peak activity.
Driveway Access
Dumpster and material staging require driveway space. You may need to park on the street during the project.
Power Usage
Crews typically need access to exterior electrical outlets for compressors and tools.
Staying Home
You can stay home but may find it more comfortable to be out during the noisiest hours (typically morning).
Weather Delays
Rain delays are common. Your contractor will never leave your home unprotected overnight.
Communication
Your project manager will provide updates and alert you to any issues or additional needs discovered.
Ready to Start Your Roof Replacement?
Get a free estimate and see how smooth the process can be with a professional team.