Are you considering a roof replacement? Whether it’s due to the roof’s age, damage, or you’re just ready for a new look, a roof installation is a significant home improvement project. And as a professional roofing company, we understand that you may have questions about the process. Maybe a lot of questions.
Today, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect during a new roof installation, plus share a few practical tips for getting ready. But before any of that, we have to offer a quick reminder to be very careful of who you hire for your roof replacement. Especially in the spring and summer months, roofers seem to come out of the woodwork, and some offer incredible deals and opportunities. With a project of this scope and level of importance, it pays to hire an established professional, looking more for long-term value, accountability, and service than just a low price point.
With that said, let’s dive in.
Preparing for Your Roof Replacement
Your roofing company will do most of the heavy lifting, of course, but there are some basic things that need to be done before they arrive:
- Ensure the area around your home is clear. Move patio furniture, potted plants, and other items away from the work zone to prevent damage from falling debris. This will also provide the crew with ample space.
- No matter how careful your roofers are, installation can be noisy and potentially dangerous with falling shingles and other materials. It’s best to keep children and pets indoors or away from the house just to make sure they’re completely safe.
- As a courtesy, let your neighbors know about the upcoming roof replacement so they can prepare for any potential noise or disruption. Who knows? They might need roofing services too and could appreciate a recommendation.
The Roof Installation Process
With the surrounding area cleared out and the roofers rolling in, what’s next? Here’s a look at the installation process:
- Preparation. Responsible roofers will do everything they can to contain the mess and make cleanup easy. This could include laying down tarps, bringing in a dumpster, or using a dump truck to catch materials. If you have questions about what this looks like, ask your roofing contractor. They should be able to provide a clear, detailed plan for how it all works.
- Removing your old roofing. The next step is to remove the existing roof materials. Your roofing company will dispose of the debris responsibly, following local regulations.
- Checking for damage. Once the old roof is removed, this is a key opportunity to inspect the underlying structure for water damage or other issues. Now’s the time, right? If necessary, they’ll make repairs to ensure your new roof is installed on a solid foundation.
- Installing the drip edge. A drip edge is a metal strip that runs along the edges of the roof to prevent water from seeping underneath the roofing material.
- Installation begins! Your roofer will start by installing the underlayment, a waterproof membrane that serves as a barrier between the roof deck and the roofing materials. It provides an additional layer of protection against water infiltration.
- Time for your roofing materials. Each type of roof has its own installation process, so this part will vary a bit depending on the materials you chose.
- Final inspection and cleanup. Once the roof is installed, the roofing contractor will inspect their work to ensure everything meets industry standards and your expectations. They’ll also clean up the job site, removing any remaining debris and leaving your property neat and tidy.
FAQs
Q: How long does a roof installation take?
A: It depends on the size of the roof, the type of roofing material, and weather conditions. In general, most roof installations take 1-3 days.
Q: What is the best roofing material for New Jersey homes?
A: This particular conversation is really driven by your needs, goals, and budget. In fact, you may want to read our recent blog for a more detailed look at the best types of roofing materials in Southern New Jersey. In short, asphalt shingles are a popular choice. They’re affordable, durable, and look fantastic.
Q: How do I choose a reputable roofing contractor?
A: Look for contractors who have a strong reputation, extensive experience, and a valid license and insurance. When you’ve narrowed down your options, request detailed quotes and compare them, taking into consideration factors like cost, materials, warranty, and timeline. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and request references from previous clients to verify their work quality and professionalism. Finally, trust your gut: choose a roofing contractor that communicates effectively, listens to your concerns, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to delivering the best possible results.