What to Expect During a Roof Installation

A roof installation is a significant home improvement project that can feel overwhelming if you don't know what to expect. Understanding the process helps you prepare your home, manage expectations, and ensure everything goes smoothly. Here's your complete guide to what happens during a professional roof installation.

Before Installation Begins

Preparation Checklist (1-2 Weeks Before)

Clear the driveway and yard: Roofing trucks and dumpsters need easy access
Trim overhanging branches: Prevent damage to new roof and provide safe work area
Protect landscaping: Cover plants and shrubs near the house
Move vehicles: Park on the street or away from the work zone
Secure loose items in attic: Installation vibrations can shift objects
Notify neighbors: Let them know about temporary noise and activity

Day 1: Tear-Off and Preparation

Time: 4-8 hours

The crew arrives early (typically 7-8 AM) and begins setting up. Here's what happens:

1. Protection Setup (30 minutes)

Tarps are laid to protect landscaping, and magnetic sweepers are placed around the perimeter to collect nails. Dumpster is positioned for easy debris removal.

2. Old Roof Removal (3-5 hours)

This is the noisiest part. Crews remove old shingles, underlayment, and nails. You'll hear significant activity on your roof and may feel vibrations inside. Most families choose to be away during this phase or work from a different location.

3. Deck Inspection (1-2 hours)

Once the old roof is off, the crew inspects the decking for rot or damage. Any compromised boards are replaced. This is when you'll learn if there are additional costs (though most quality contractors identify this during initial inspection).

4. Weather Protection (end of day)

Before leaving, the crew ensures your home is weatherproof for the night, even if installation isn't complete. Ice and water barrier may be installed, and tarps secure any exposed areas.

Day 2: Installation Begins

Time: 6-8 hours

This is when your new roof starts taking shape:

1

Underlayment Installation: Waterproof underlayment is rolled out across the entire roof deck, creating a secondary water barrier.
2

Drip Edge and Flashing: Metal drip edge is installed along eaves and rakes. Valley flashing and pipe boot flashing are positioned.
3

Starter Shingles: Special starter strips are installed along the bottom edge to ensure proper water shedding.
4

Shingle Installation Begins: Working from bottom to top, crews nail down rows of shingles with precise overlap.

Day 3: Completion and Finishing Touches

Time: 4-6 hours

The final day focuses on details and quality assurance:

• Complete shingle installation on all roof planes
• Install ridge cap shingles along all peaks
• Install roof vents for proper attic ventilation
• Seal all penetrations (pipes, vents, chimneys)
• Conduct thorough quality inspection
• Complete cleanup: remove all debris and materials
• Run magnetic sweepers multiple times to collect nails
• Final walkthrough with homeowner

What You'll Experience

Noise Levels

Expect significant noise during tear-off (hammering, scraping) and moderate noise during installation (nail guns, workers communicating). Most disruptive on Day 1.

Inside Your Home

Vibrations may cause pictures to shift slightly and dust may settle in the attic. Your home remains livable and safe throughout. Utilities are not interrupted.

Crew Hours

Typically 7-8 AM to 5-6 PM. Crews may work longer in summer months to take advantage of daylight. They'll notify you of any schedule changes.

Facilities

Professional crews bring portable toilets. You're not obligated to provide access to your home's bathrooms, though some homeowners offer this courtesy.

Potential Delays

While most installations proceed on schedule, be aware of factors that could extend the timeline:

• Weather: Rain, high winds, or extreme heat can pause work
• Hidden Damage: Extensive deck rot requires additional repair time
• Complex Architecture: Multiple valleys and dormers take longer
• Material Delays: Occasionally specific products are back-ordered

Quality contractors communicate proactively about any delays and adjust schedules accordingly.

After Installation

Post-Installation Checklist

✓ Conduct final walkthrough with project manager
✓ Review warranty documentation
✓ Receive care and maintenance instructions
✓ Get emergency contact information
✓ Schedule follow-up inspection (typically 30 days)
✓ Take photos of completed roof for your records

Working with EcoRoof Solutions

At EcoRoof Solutions, we pride ourselves on transparent communication and professional execution. Before your installation begins, we'll provide:

• Detailed timeline with daily schedules
• Direct contact information for your project manager
• Daily progress updates
• Clear explanation of each phase
• Immediate notification of any unexpected issues

Our goal is to make the installation process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With proper preparation and realistic expectations, most homeowners find the process much easier than anticipated.