The Process of Installing a Roof

If you’re building a home, or considering having your roof replaced due to damage or age, it can help to be aware of the process of how roof installments work. This can help you find a reputable roofing contractor and know what to expect when the time comes for the project to start. A roof is the largest, and sometimes the most expensive, component of a home. Learning the basics from the beginning will ensure you are prepared for the unexpected.

Basic Rundown of the Roof Installation Process

Depending on the roofing company you choose, they will most likely follow a process like below:

Start Fresh: Remove and trash all old shingles or damaged materials. Valley flashing and drip edging (the parts of your roof that lead water to the gutters) are removed. Repair any damages to the roof. New plywood sheathing or sheathing boards might be used at this time to make larger repairs to the roof decking.

Phase One: Install your underlayment, either an ice guard membrane (a synthetic and waterproof barrier made to stop melting ice and hail from pooling under your shingles – this is  even used on homes in Northern Florida) or asphalt roofing paper over the roof decking. These add a layer of protection against water damage.

Phase Two: Install new valley flashing (over joints) and drip edging (around the edges) over the roofing paper. Replace old valley flashing where needed. Seal with roofing caulk.

Phase Three: Install a ridge vent (the vent at the peak of your roof which provides air circulation) or gable vents to help your attic “breathe,” and reduce buildup of hot air and prevent ice dams. Install tab shingles, working from the eaves up toward the peak. Install flashing around ALL areas that might leak (skylights, chimneys, vents, etc.).

Complete and Clean: Apply roofing adhesive around exposed nails to create a watertight seal. This protects the nails and helps them stand up against violent weather conditions. Clean up remaining debris, let the adhesive dry, and it’s completed.

Choosing a Roofing Material

A quick internet search will result in lists upon lists of various roofing materials. You want to find a roofing material that will fit your budget and home. Here’s a list of some popular roof choices for residential roof installation:

Wood Shakes or Shingles. Expensive but attractive, these shingles are long lasting. However, they are not the best choice for areas with greater risk of fire.

Asphalt Composition Shingles. The most popular roofing material, given their low-cost and easy accessibility. Although not as attractive as other roofing materials, they are easily the most popular.

Metal Roofing. Being fireproof and long lasting has made metal roofing a popular option in roof installation in recent years. Although initially expensive (and requiring specialty contractors for installation), their long lifespan and ability to protect the home in harsh weather (hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.) makes them a good choice.

Standard Slate Roofing. This roofing material is very attractive, but it comes at a cost. Not only is slate roofing an expensive option, but it is also very heavy, which adds stress to the structure of your home. They can also be dangerously slippery, making damages difficult to repair.

Composition Slate Roofing. This synthetic and eco-friendly roofing material is made of 95% recycled materials (including rubber). And, though they provide the look of slate and stone, they are surprisingly light and less vulnerable to damage.

Clay/Ceramic Tiles. Popular for its Spanish-style look, these tile roofs are common throughout many of the warmer regions of the U.S because of their fire-retardant abilities. However, there are now other roofing materials out there which resemble the Spanish aesthetic and durability without the added weight of a traditional clay or ceramic tile.

Things to Note

DIY: You should never attempt to install a roof yourself if you do not have the experience, extensive knowledge or aren’t in good physical condition. Installing a new roof is not something you want to have to re-do. It’s best to research different roofing companies and find a team that fits your needs.

Budget: When you are working on your budget for a new roof, there are several factors to consider. The choice of roofing material, roofing contractor, the steepness (or pitch) of your roof, and the overall square footage of your roof combine to determine the actual cost of installing a new roof.

Hiring a Professional: Noting your budget, you should not sacrifice quality. Finding a roofing company who gives you an honest quote with experience and reviews to back them up is essential. This might mean contacting 5 to 10 different contractors for estimates before hiring one.

La Pera’s General Contracting team of roofers understand that your home is your most important investment. Our professional roofing contractors have the experience needed in inspections, replacements, repairs and more, of all types of Florida roofing systems. We are equipped to help you make the right decision for your home and for your budget. We strive to give our clients options, as well as sound advice based on solutions that work. Whatever type of roofing material you have, we can help.

If you have questions about your roofing needs, call La Pera’s General Contracting today! We will provide you with a detailed inspection and estimate by a professional contractor.