TITLE: Day by Day: What Really Happens During a Full Reroof
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---A full roof replacement is usually completed in one to two days on a standard home. Complexity, size, and weather determine the schedule. Most homeowners are surprised by how fast https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/roofings/lifetime-construction-builders/uncategorized/roof-upkeep-and-how-long-it-lasts-common-questions-answered.html the process moves and how much noise and vibration it generates. Knowing the sequence - what happens before, during, and after the shingles go on - reduces stress and lets you prepare practically for the experience.
The first task on every roof replacement is tear-off. The crew uses roofing shovels, tear-off forks, and pry bars to strip the old shingles, underlayment, and flashings down to the deck. A typical 2,000-square-foot roof generates 4 to 6 tons of debris. Most residential re-roofs in northern climates involve two tear-off layers - the original shingle installation and one previous reroof that went on over it. Some jurisdictions allow a second layer to be installed without tear-off, but most manufacturers require a clean deck for full warranty validity.
Once the deck is exposed, the crew inspects every board for rot, delamination, and soft spots. Rotten or damaged decking must be addressed before new underlayment goes down. The cost of deck repair averages $70 to $120 per 4-by-8 sheet including labor. That cost is typically billed separately from the original quote and should be discussed before the project starts. On a 20-year-old roof with a history of leaks, budget $500 to $2,000 for potential deck repairs to avoid a mid-project surprise.
Before any shingles go on, several protective base layers are installed. Ice-and-water shield - a self-adhering waterproof membrane - goes at the eaves, in all valleys, and around every penetration. In northern climates, most codes require ice-and-water shield for the lower 3 to 6 feet of each slope. Synthetic underlayment covers the rest of the deck above the ice barrier. Synthetic is more dimensionally stable, more water-resistant, and safer to walk on wet than traditional 15-pound felt. Starter strip goes at the eave and rake edges to provide the sealant adhesion for the first field course.
Shingle installation begins at the eave and works toward the ridge in overlapping courses. Nailing pattern is critical. Four nails per shingle is the standard for 110 mph wind resistance. Six nails per shingle is required in high-wind zones and coastal regions. Most shingles have a printed nail zone that guides fastener placement. Nails placed above the nail zone reduce holding strength by 60 percent or more and are one of the most common causes of shingle failure in wind events. This is not visible after the roof is complete, which is why contractor credentials and references matter.
Flashings are installed as the crew works through each section. Step flashings at walls and dormers interleave with the shingle courses and must be lapped correctly at each course. Chimney flashings use a two-piece system with base flashing woven into the shingles and counter-flashing embedded in the masonry. Pipe boots get new rubber seals at every vent penetration - including all the old ones that survived the tear-off. Ridge cap shingles are the final element, installed from one end of the ridge to the other in overlapping courses. Cleanup is part of every professional installation. A magnetic sweeper collects stray nails and metal fasteners from the yard, driveway, landscaping, and any accessible outdoor area. The completion walkthrough should happen with the homeowner present before the final payment is released. Check the ridge line for straightness, examine all flashings visually, and confirm that every pipe penetration has a new boot installed. Once the crew leaves and you release final payment, your primary leverage for addressing deficiencies is gone. Walk the finished roof - or have a trusted person do it - before signing off.