For most homeowners in Alabama, replacing their roof is a major home improvement project they’ll only have to take on every 20-30 years. A roof replacement is a significant investment that can run into the tens of thousands of dollars depending on the size of your home. It’s a process that can be disruptive and messy while the work is ongoing. However, a new roof also adds tremendous value, protects your home, and gives you peace of mind knowing you won’t have to worry about leaks or roof damage for decades.
If the time has come to replace your aging, worn out roof, it’s helpful to know what to expect during the roof replacement process. At Hinkle Roofing we’ve replaced thousands of roofs across Alabama over our more than 115 years in business. Here’s an overview of how a typical roof replacement project unfolds from start to finish:
An Initial Roof Inspection and Quote
The first step is to have an experienced roofing contractor come out to your home to inspect your existing roof. We’ll assess its current condition, determine what needs to be replaced, take measurements of your roof, and provide you with a detailed quote for the full roof replacement cost. This quote will include the costs for all materials like shingles, underlayment, vents, flashing, and more, as well as the labor costs.
Many contractors offer different types and grades of shingles at various price points. They can explain the pros and cons of each option to help you choose the roofing material that best fits your needs and budget. This is also the time to discuss timing for when you’d like the roof replaced if you decide to move forward.
Preparing for the Roof Installation
Once you’ve agreed to hire a roofer and accepted their quote, they’ll get scheduled for your roof replacement. In the days leading up to the installation, there are some steps you can take to prepare:
- Trim back any trees or landscaping that overhangs your roof to allow easy access
- Clear pathways around your home for the contractor’s equipment and materials
- Move any vehicles out of your driveway and the area around your home
- Remove valuables from attics or top floors to prevent damage from vibrations
- Cover or remove patio furniture, planters, kids’ toys, etc. from around your home
- Most roofing companies will delivery materials for the work a day or two prior to the date of the installation, so please have an area clear (driveways are best) to store the pallets
Taking these precautions helps ensure your property is ready and the installation can go smoothly.
The Roof Tear-Off and Installation Process
With preparations complete, the roofing crew will arrive on the scheduled day and immediately get to work. The first step is tearing off your existing roof down to the wood decking. This involves removing the old shingles, underlayment, flashing, vents, and other components. The crew will load the old roofing into a dumpster or dump truck to be hauled away.
With the old roof stripped away, the contractor can then begin installing your new roofing system. This is when they’ll lay out the underlayment, drip edging, ice and water shield membranes, vents, flashing around chimneys and walls, and finally the new shingles or metal roofing material you’ve selected.
Roofing is a fairly loud and messy job. Expect there to be nails, debris, and dust around your home while the work is ongoing. A typical full roof replacement takes 1-3 days for an average-sized home once the tear-off begins.
Conducting a Final Roof Inspection
After the new roofing material is installed, the roofers will do a final inspection to ensure everything is installed properly and according to code. They’ll also do a magnetic sweep of your yard to remove any stray nails or debris.
The foreman or project manager will walk you around the home to show you the completed roof installation and ensure you’re fully satisfied with the work. This is the time to ask any remaining questions you have and get clarity on warranties for materials and labor.
With the roof replacement complete, you can feel confident that your home is protected for decades to come. You can enjoy living in your home without worrying about roof leaks, missing shingles, or other roofing issues. When maintained properly, your new roof should last 25-30 years before needing to be replaced again.
The Best Roofing Choice? Hinkle Roofing!
For professional roofing services with exceptional service and attention, we can’t be beat! Contact us today at (205) 324-8545 or through our online form to request a free estimate.