Broken or warped shingles, sagging, leaking, or worn flashing may be signs that it’s time to replace your roof. Professional roofers have the experience and expertise to perform the job safely and provide a quality roof that lasts years. Here are the standard stages of installation provided by roofing companies:
Roof Assessment
A roof inspection examines the current condition of your roof and determines what repairs need to be made. This includes evaluating the interior of the home for water damage on the ceilings or walls, and an inspection to see if the structural support is adequate. The materials and workmanship are also checked out.
If it’s determined that a new roof is needed, the permit process can begin. Most areas require a city-level permit, and some homeowners associations do as well. Your roof will also be measured at this time so an order for materials can be placed.
Old Roof Removal
Roof removal starts at the apex of the roof and then worked down from there. Professional roofing companies will take precautions to protect your home by laying down tarps. These protect your home’s exterior and landscaping from debris and damage and make moving the old roof parts to the dumpster easier.
Prepare Roof Deck
The roof decking is the foundation of your roof, connecting to the frame of the home. A well-prepared roof deck helps keep your roof stable and strong. Contractors clean the surface, repair any sources of leaks or damage, and install a waterproofing membrane to protect your home from water damage.
Underlayment
Underlayment is a water-resistant barrier that adds another layer of protection against water damage and adds some insulation. There are a couple of choices for underlayment material: plastic or felt, also called “tar paper.” The synthetic plastic option is durable and repels water and mold. Asphalt-saturated felt is a thick construction paper that has been soaked in an asphaltic substance. It is water-resistant, flexible, and ideal for steep roofs instead of flat ones.
Flashing
Metal flashing is installed to keep the transitions in your roof watertight. It also helps guide water away from vulnerable areas like vents, chimneys, or skylights. There are different types of flashing available, including step and apron flashing. Step flashing is used against the sides of walls, and apron flashing is used at the base of a wall or against the side of windows and chimneys.
Shingles
Shingles are the flat pieces of material used to create the primary waterproof barrier. They are laid out in an overlapping pattern to help water run off the roof. They can be made of several materials, such as asphalt, metal, clay, or wood. The right material for your roof depends on the climate and shape of the roof. Metal and clay tiles work well in hot, desert climates because they are heat resistant and energy efficient. Asphalt or composite shingles are suitable for rainy climates since they are durable and weather-resistant.
Final Inspection
The final stages of roof installation involve cleaning up the construction site of any extra material or debris and performing a final inspection. Your new roof will be inspected for gaps, missed sections, or loose shingles. The roofing company may leave some extra pieces or materials with you for future repairs.
How to Choose Roofing Companies
A new roof helps protect your home and can increase curb appeal and energy efficiency. Research roofing companies that are licensed and offer a warranty on their installations. With the right expertise, a new roof can last up to 50 years, depending on the type of shingles. Schedule a consultation or assessment to learn about material options and a possible installation timeline.
