How long does it take to replace a roof?
The work on the house itself is short: many asphalt shingle roofs are torn off and replaced in one to three days, depending on size, pitch and complexity. Tile, slate and metal take longer. The weeks before are usually longer than the job, because materials have to be ordered and, on a storm claim, the insurance inspection and approval come first.
Before the crew arrives
Every replacement starts with an inspection and measurements, then a choice of material and color. On an insurance job, the carrier’s adjuster has to inspect and approve the claim before work is scheduled, and after a big hailstorm adjusters and roofers alike are booked out.
Materials are ordered once the scope is set. Common shingle colors are usually in stock locally. Specialty colors, tile, slate and some metal systems can take longer to arrive.
Many North Texas cities, Southlake among them, require a permit for a reroof, which the contractor normally pulls.
Tear-off and installation
On the first day, the old roofing comes off down to the deck and goes into a dumpster or trailer. The deck is inspected and any soft or rotten boards are replaced. Underlayment goes down the same day, so the house is protected even if the job runs into a second day.
Then comes the new roof: drip edge, valleys, flashing, pipe boots, the field shingles, ridge caps and vents. A simple single-story roof can be done in a day. A large two-story house with many hips, valleys and dormers takes longer, as does any steep roof that needs extra safety setup.
What slows a job down
Rain and high wind stop work. Decking that turns out to be worse than expected adds time, and on a claim it may need a supplement approved. Two or three layers of old shingles take longer to remove than one. Tile and slate are slower to lay by nature, and metal panels are often measured and fabricated for the house.
At the end, the crew should sweep the yard and driveway for nails with a magnet and haul away the debris. Walk the property with the roofer before they leave.
Related questions
Do I need to be home during a roof replacement?
Usually not, as long as the crew can reach the house, power outlets and the driveway. Move cars out of the way and keep pets inside.
Can a roof be replaced in the rain?
The tear-off should not happen in rain. If weather turns mid-job, the deck is covered with underlayment or tarps until work can resume.
Is it noisy?
Yes, tear-off and nailing are loud, especially in upstairs rooms. Plan around it if you work from home.
