Typically roof replacements take longer than roof repairs but the time it takes roofers to complete a roof replacement is not as long as you are thinking. Here at Fiddler Roofing we usually estimate that average roof replacements take about three days to two weeks depending on the extent of the current roof’s damage. Let’s dive in to the various situations that can arise:
Step 1: Choose Your Contractor
Finding the right licensed, bonded, and insured Roofing Contractor is the key to a worry-free and successful project. Check with your local BBB, online Yellow Pages, or Google for a comprehensive Contractor listing. Take the time to read customer testimonials and look at customer ratings. If they are happy, chances are you will be as well. Then choose your top three and set up site visits for estimates and to discuss time frame.
Step 2: Choosing Your Materials: Fit/ Finish/Options/Warranty
Ok, you have chosen your contractor! It is time to talk about fit, finish, options, and warranty.
Are you repairing the existing roof or replacing it entirely? Is it a flat roof, or pitched? The products available now are varied to the extreme. Products and manufacturers will have warranty tiers associated with different product lines, so it is time to pick your Contractor’s brain for recommendations to fit your budget, aesthetic, and time frame.
Step 3: Demolition/Repair
The crew shows up with the big dumpster, and it is Demo time. Time to remove the old and see what lies beneath. Is there damage to the substrate or the framing? Water damage and mold can cause serious structural and health problems. This is the time to repair any existing damage to the framing or deck materials and get them prepped for the new. Repairs can add additional cost and change orders to the project, but will be worth the worry-free years you will get from your new roof.
Step 4: Restoration
Your new substrate is in place and it is time to protect it with sealed waterproof material. These are usually bituminous or asphalt-based products. For pitched roofs, roofing felt is installed manually with staples directly to the deck. For flat roofs, it is common to have a torch down applied rubber system. These systems prevent leaks, UV damage and insect infestation. Once installed, it is finally time for the finished roof
Step 5: Finish
It is time to apply and install your finished roof. Whether you choose shingles, standing seam metal, or a torch down system, this tends to be the labor-intensive part of the project. It is important that the Roofing Contractor follows all recommended manufacturer installation guidelines so that the warranty is intact. Some companies will send a representative to inspect the installation to approve the warranty. A worry free, well installed roof will give you many years of protection.
Step 6: Clean Up- Is it Left in Better Condition?
A clean job site is a productive and efficient job site. A reputable Contractor will clean up all debris, and will have had dump fees included in their estimate!
