Phase 1: Planning Your Roof Replacement
Do You Need a Full Replacement?
Not every roofing problem requires a full replacement. Minor issues like a few missing shingles or a small leak can often be repaired for a fraction of the cost. However, a full replacement is necessary when:
- Your roof is 20+ years old (for asphalt shingles)
- More than 30% of the shingles are damaged or missing
- There is widespread granule loss exposing the fiberglass mat
- The roof deck shows signs of rot or structural damage
- Multiple active leaks are present
- You already have two layers of shingles (building code maximum)
Review our guide on 10 signs you need a new roof for a detailed checklist.
Getting Your Roof Measured
Accurate measurements are the foundation of an accurate quote. You can measure your roof yourself or rely on contractor measurements. Having your own measurements helps you verify contractor quotes and compare bids fairly. Use our roof area calculator to determine your roof size.
Phase 2: Choosing Your Roofing Materials
Your material choice affects cost, appearance, and how long the roof will last. The main options for residential roofs in 2026 are:
- Asphalt shingles (most popular, $3.50-$9.00/sq ft installed) - See our shingle types guide
- Metal roofing ($7.00-$14.00/sq ft) - See our metal roofing guide
- Tile ($8.00-$18.00/sq ft) - See our tile roofing guide
- Slate ($15.00-$30.00/sq ft) - See our slate roofing guide
Compare all options in our roofing materials comparison guide. Use the roof replacement cost calculator to estimate your project cost.
Beyond Shingles: Other Materials Needed
- Underlayment: Synthetic felt or ice and water shield applied over the deck
- Drip edge: Metal flashing along eaves and rakes
- Flashing: Metal pieces around chimneys, walls, vents, and valleys
- Ventilation: Ridge vents, soffit vents, or powered ventilators
- Hip and ridge caps: Special shingles for peak lines
- Starter strip: First row of shingles at the eave
Phase 3: Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Getting Multiple Quotes
Always get at least 3 written quotes from different contractors. Each quote should include:
- Detailed scope of work (tear-off, materials, ventilation, flashing)
- Specific material brands and product names
- Start date and estimated completion
- Payment schedule (never pay 100% upfront)
- Warranty information (both manufacturer and workmanship)
- Cleanup and debris disposal included
Red Flags to Watch For
- Demanding full payment before work begins
- No physical business address or website
- Significantly lower price than all other quotes (cut corners likely)
- Pressuring you to sign immediately
- No license, bonding, or insurance documentation
- Refusing to provide references or a portfolio
Read our DIY vs professional roofing guide to decide if hiring a pro is the right choice for your project.
Phase 4: Preparing for Installation
Clear the driveway
Contractors need space for the dumpster and material delivery.
Move vehicles
Park away from the house to avoid damage from falling debris.
Protect landscaping
Cover plants, flowers, and outdoor furniture near the house.
Remove wall decorations inside
Hammering vibrations can knock items off walls.
Secure attic items
Dust and debris may filter through during tear-off.
Notify neighbors
The project will be noisy, especially during tear-off.
Arrange for children and pets
Keep them away from the work area.
Phase 5: Installation Day
A typical roof replacement takes 1-3 days for an average-sized home. Here is what happens:
Tear-off (Day 1 morning)
Old shingles, underlayment, and damaged decking are removed. See our tear-off guide for details.
Deck inspection and repair
Roofers inspect the plywood deck for rot and replace damaged sections ($50-100 per sheet).
Install underlayment
Synthetic underlayment or ice and water shield is laid over the entire deck.
Install drip edge and flashing
Metal drip edge goes along all eaves and rakes. Flashing is installed around chimneys, walls, and penetrations.
Install ventilation
Ridge vents are cut and installed. Soffit vents are checked for blockage.
Install starter strip
The first row of shingles at the eave line.
Install field shingles
Working from bottom to top, shingles are nailed in overlapping rows.
Install hip and ridge caps
Special cap shingles cover all hip and ridge lines.
Cleanup
Magnetic sweepers collect stray nails. All debris is loaded into the dumpster.
Phase 6: Final Inspection
After installation, conduct a thorough inspection. Use our roof inspection checklist as your guide:
- ☐All shingles are straight and properly aligned
- ☐Flashing is properly sealed around all penetrations
- ☐Ridge caps are centered and secure
- ☐Drip edge extends properly over gutters
- ☐No exposed nails visible
- ☐Yard is clean - no nails or debris remaining
- ☐Gutters and downspouts are reattached and functional
Cost Breakdown
| Component | % of Total | Typical Cost (20 sq roof) |
|---|---|---|
| Shingles | 30-35% | $3,000-$5,000 |
| Labor | 40-50% | $4,000-$7,000 |
| Underlayment & accessories | 10-15% | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Tear-off & disposal | 5-10% | $500-$1,500 |
| Permits & overhead | 5-10% | $500-$1,000 |
Get a personalized estimate with our roof replacement cost calculator.
Quick Material Estimate
1,792
Adj. Area (sq ft)
17.9
Squares
60
Bundles
Timeline & Best Season to Replace
The best time to replace your roof is during late spring through early fall (May-October in most regions). Shingles need temperatures above 40-45°F to properly seal. The ideal conditions are dry weather with temperatures between 45-85°F.
Spring
Good weather, but contractors fill up fast after winter.
Summer
Best conditions, but highest demand and prices.
Fall
Good value - weather still warm, some off-peak discounts.
Winter
Possible in mild climates, but cold affects shingle sealing. Lower prices but higher risk.