Arguably the most crucial part of your home’s structure, your roof keeps you safe from the passage of time and the whims of nature. But even this sturdy shelter isn’t immune to damage. This is when roof replacement comes in. While the actual process of replacing your roof should be entrusted to professional roofers alone, there’s nothing wrong with gaining some insights into the replacement process before the work begins. From assessing the old roof to selecting the right material to laying down the new roof and more, this blog by US Builders Team LLC covers everything that happens during a roof replacement service.
Residential Roof Replacement: From Consultation to Completion
Okay, let’s say that your roof is too old and needs to be replaced. Or maybe it’s received quite the battering from last week’s storm, prompting a replacement. What do you do? Schedule expert roofers to replace your roof, of course! Here is a bird’s-eye view of what goes on when you get reliable roofers involved with your roof replacement project.
Read along as we cover the whole process from start to finish.
Step 1: Detailed Assessments
The first thing that any reliable roofer will do is to conduct an assessment of your old roof. They will take in its condition and determine the kind of roof that is best suited for your unique property.
Step 2: Selecting The Right Roof
Now this is where their expert opinion truly shines. Your roofers will consolidate your budget, local weather conditions, and needs to recommend the correct roof for you. For example, if you live in a snowy area, a metal roof will be ideal, but if you reside in an area with moderate temperatures, an asphalt shingle roof will be just fine.
Step 3: Acquiring Permits
Once all that’s settled, it’s time to have your project approved. Your roofers may contact local authorities on your behalf and submit their plans. The plans for your new roof will need to comply with local building and safety codes to gain the stamp of approval. Once that’s done, the actual process can begin.
Step 4: Prep Work & Personal Safety
Now that the roofers are ready to begin, it’s a good idea to move things like vehicles and outdoor furniture out of the way. Clear driveways and warn neighbors about all the expected noise and strangers they’re likely to see over the replacement process. The roofers will then put on safety harnesses, goggles, and stabilize ladders to reach your roof.
Step 5: Taking Down The Old Roof
Once ready, the roofers will methodically tear off your old roof. They will use professional tools to tear it off and dispose of all the debris in large dumpsters so that it can be safely disposed of later. The stripping process will only leave behind the framing and deck.
Step 6: Deck Inspection & Repairs
Once the roofers reach your decking, they will thoroughly assess it for signs of damage. This is important so that the new roof has a solid and dry foundation to go on top of. If they do find any rotting or moisture-damaged wood, the roofing contractors will immediately replace it.
Step 7: Drip Edge & Underlayment
Okay, time to create the base. Your roofers will install the drip edge on the edges of your roof to direct rainwater away. They will also lay down the underlayment to keep drips from seeping into the decking and into your property.
Step 8: Vents & Flashing
Almost there! Next, your roofers will set up the ventilation system before sealing it with flashing. This will keep your roof safe from water damage and your interiors comfortable throughout the changing seasons.
Step 9: Laying Down The New Roof
Next, the main roof comes into play. The roofing contractors will lay down your asphalt shingles, slate, tile, or wood roof, starting from the edges and making their way to the ridge.
Step 10: Finishing Touches & Final Assessments
The last steps to replacing your roof are to add finishing touches like ridge caps and thoroughly check to make sure that there aren’t any loose nails or poorly installed flashing that might compromise your roof’s integrity. After the final sweep, your roofers will clean up the mess on your property, and you’re all done!
Conclusion
In the end, replacing your roof is a multi-layered task that requires technical knowledge and high skill levels. It should never be attempted by amateurs for safety and building code violations’ sake. From the initial inspection to the final clean-up, this blog is a complete guide to what happens during your roof replacement.
FAQs
How long does roof replacement take?
Depending on the complexity of your roof, the material used, and the weather conditions, a roof replacement takes 1-5 days on average.
How much does a roof replacement cost?
Typically, you may have to spend somewhere between $5,000 and $15,000 on your roof replacement.
What is the strongest roofing material against storms?
Metal is by far the strongest, with synthetic and slate following close behind.