What does a roof replacement involve from start to finish?
A proper replacement is more than new shingles laid over old ones. The usual steps are:
- Protect the property. Tarps go over plants and the ground beside the house, and the gutters are checked.
- Tear off the old roofing down to the deck. Many crews avoid a second layer on top of the first, because it hides rot and adds weight.
- Inspect the deck and replace soft or damaged boards.
- Install an ice and water barrier along the eaves and in valleys. In snow country this is common practice and worth asking about.
- Lay underlayment, flashing and vents, then the shingles or other roofing material.
- Clean up, sweep for nails and do a final walk-around.
Ask who handles the dumpster, how attic ventilation will be improved and what happens if the deck needs more work than expected. A good written quote answers those questions before the crew arrives.

