Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation and Safety
   • Before any work begins, it’s crucial to prepare the work area to ensure safety and efficiency. This involves clearing the area of any obstacles or debris to provide a safe working environment, setting up scaffolding or ladders for safe access to the roof, and protecting surrounding areas like gardens or air conditioning units with tarps to prevent damage from falling debris. This step is vital for both worker safety and property protection, as it minimizes risks and ensures a smooth workflow.
2. Removal of Old Roofing Materials
   • The initial step in roof replacement is to remove all existing materials to start fresh. This includes stripping old shingles, underlayment, and any other materials using appropriate tools, ensuring a clean slate for new installation. Proper disposal of these materials is necessary to maintain a clean work site and comply with local regulations, preventing environmental hazards and maintaining professionalism.
3. Inspection and Repair of Roof Deck
   • With the old materials removed, the next step is to inspect the roof deck for any damage, such as rot or water damage, which could compromise the new roof’s integrity. Any damaged or rotten wood must be replaced to ensure a solid base, a critical step for long-term roof performance and to avoid future leaks or structural issues.
4. Installation of Ice and Water Shield
   • To protect against ice dams and water damage, especially in colder climates, install ice and water shield in vulnerable areas like eaves, valleys, and around chimneys. This rubberized asphalt layer ensures proper overlap and adhesion, providing an additional barrier against water penetration, which is essential for homes in regions with heavy snowfall or rain.
5. Installation of Synthetic Underlayment
   • Cover the entire roof deck with synthetic underlayment, which offers enhanced durability and water resistance compared to traditional felt. Roll out the underlayment, ensuring it covers the entire deck and overlaps appropriately at seams, building on the protection offered by the ice and water shield and preparing the surface for shingle installation.
6. Installation of Drip Edge
   • Install metal drip edge along the eaves and rakes to direct water away from the roof and into the gutter, preventing damage to fascia and underlying structures. The installation sequence varies by location:
     • At Eaves: Install drip edge first, extending it over the edge and securing it to the deck. Then, install underlayment over the top part of the drip edge on the roof deck, ensuring it covers the attached portion but leaves the overhang exposed.
     • At Rake Edges: Install underlayment first, then place the drip edge on top of it, securing it to direct water away from the sides. This difference reflects building code variations, such as those seen in Florida, where underlayment is over drip edge at eaves and under it at rakes.
   • This step is crucial for water management, and the sequence ensures compliance with local standards, which may vary by region.
7. Installation of Starter Strip
   • Begin the shingle installation with a starter strip, typically a row of starter strip at the bottom edge and gables edge. This provides a base for the first course of regular shingles, ensuring proper alignment and sealing, which is essential for the roof’s overall water resistance and aesthetic continuity.
8. Installation of Shingles
   • Install the main body of the roof using our good selections of architectural shingles (i.e., CertainTeed or Owens Corning shingles). Start from the bottom and work upwards, ensuring each row is properly aligned and nailed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Stagger the seams of adjacent rows to enhance strength and water resistance, improving overall roof performance and longevity.
9. Installation of Ridge Vent
   • Install a ridge vent along the peak of the roof to provide ventilation, helping regulate temperature and reduce moisture in the attic. Position the vent centrally and ensure it’s properly sealed, crucial for long-term roof health and energy efficiency, preventing issues like mold and excessive heat buildup.
10. Installation of Hip & Ridge Shingles
    • Cover the hip and ridge areas with specially designed shingles to ensure a tight seal and prevent water intrusion at these critical junctions. Apply these shingles carefully to maintain aesthetic continuity and structural integrity, ensuring the roof’s peak areas are protected against leaks and weather damage.
11. Installation of Hard Base Flashing
    • Install metal flashing around any roof penetrations, such as chimneys, vents, or skylights, to create a watertight seal. This step is essential for preventing leaks, ensuring that water is directed away from vulnerable areas and maintaining the roof’s integrity at points of intersection.
12. Final Inspection
    • Conduct a thorough inspection to ensure the roof is complete and meets all standards. Check for missed spots, ensure all fasteners are in place, and clean up any debris, restoring the work area. This final step ensures quality and compliance, providing peace of mind that the roof is ready to protect the home.