Many homeowners think installing a new roof is so easy, all it takes is throwing some new shingles over your old ones, and it’s ready to go. Well, the installation process of a new roof is a lot more complex. Your roof has a lot of technicalities and components, including drainage systems, membranes, ventilation systems, and waterproofing barriers under the shingles.
Your roof is responsible for some essential tasks, such as protecting your home from all kinds of weather and debris, insulting your home to help with energy conservation, and improving your property’s overall aesthetics. This is why you must ensure that your roof is installed correctly and that your roof’s systems are working properly.
Step-by-step Installation Process
Planning a major home renovation project like a roof replacement helps to understand the installation process. The following are the steps a professional will take during a new roof installation:
Choosing Materials
There are several roofing materials to choose from, so consult your roofing contractor before deciding on one. When choosing one, there are many factors to consider, such as the structure of your home, your budget, and the climate in your area.
Setting Up
To avoid damage to your property, it’s best to set things up before the job begins. This involves moving things like cars out of the way, covering your lawn with a tarp, e.t.c.
Removing Old Roofing Material
Your roofing contractor will remove all old shingles and dispose of them. Valley flashing and drip edging are all removed as well.
Inspect The Roof
After the old roof has been removed, your contractor will then proceed to inspect the sheathing, after which they would check for any moist or trouble area on the roof that needs replacement.
Putting On The Drip Edge
The drip edge for the roofing is applied in two different parts of the roofing installation. The first application is for the lower part of the roof, and the second application is for the sides of the roof. Your contractor will replace the old valley flashing with new valley flashing where needed and seal it with roofing caulk.
Underlayment
This particular step plays an essential role in the overall health of your roof. It holds water and sheds it so that the sheathing and framing don’t get wet and start to rot. Your contractor will also install an ice and water barrier underneath the drip edge as added protection.
Installing The New Roof
At this point, your contractor will install the roofing material, starting at the bottom and sides. Each roofing material has a different installation process.
Cleaning Up
Once the new roof has been installed, the contractor will clean up the work site, after which the last bout of inspection will be performed to ensure that the roof was installed properly and the materials used are not defective.