How to Replace a Roof: Expert Guide

By Amanda Lutz Updated October 24, 2024

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Before you replace your roof, assess how different variables—such as the type of materials you use—will impact costs. Installing a new roof is a complex process with many steps that you will need to meticulously complete to avoid water damage in your home. Read on to learn more about how the process works, as well as the benefits of working with an experienced roofing contractor.

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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Roof?

The cost of a new roof depends on many factors, including the type of roof shingles you choose, the roof’s size in square feet, and whether you’ll need to replace the underlayment. Take a look at the price per square foot of different materials to better estimate your potential roof replacement cost. The cost of installation is separate, and that can vary depending on whether you hire a roofing contractor or tackle a DIY roof project. The material type you pick will also impact roof installation prices.

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Roof Materials

• Aluminum shingles: Aluminum shingles are durable and reflective, and can help keep your home cool in the summer months. However, like other types of metal roofs, rain can be loud and hail can cause permanent damage.
• Asphalt shingles: A versatile and inexpensive option, asphalt roofing is extremely common. Life expectancy is shorter compared to other options, averaging between 15 and 30 years.
• Cedar shingles: Not only are cedar shingles beautiful, but they’re also durable, energy-efficient, and resistant to extreme weather. The downside is that both material and installation costs are a bigger investment than other options. You also need to account for annual maintenance to prevent moss and fungus growth.
• Clay tiles: Clay roofs, such as terra cotta, give your home a charming, old-world finish. They’re extremely resistant to hazards such as fire, hail impact, and high winds. They’re also eco-friendly because they don’t require any harmful chemicals in the production process. However, there are some disadvantages—clay tiles are expensive, and they require appropriate structural support to accommodate their heavy weight.
• Concrete tiles: Using concrete tiles on your roof provides a lasting solution, but the added weight can impact the structural integrity of your home. They’re also difficult to install around areas such as chimneys and skylights.
• Copper tiles: Copper offers a unique look, but is one of the most expensive roofing materials available. The life span of copper tiles may be worth it, however, as they can last for a century.
• Corrugated metal: This is an inexpensive choice that’s also more eco-friendly than asphalt. However, there is a potential for leaking if not installed properly.
• Flat roofing materials: Commercial buildings often have flat membrane roofs, but this also can be a good choice if your home’s roof is flat or has a very low slope. Flat roofing materials are great options for areas with extreme weather, including snow or heat.
• Slate roofing tiles: Similar to copper, a slate tile roof provides instant curb appeal and a long life span. However, the tiles themselves are expensive and fragile. You’ll need a professional to regularly inspect and repair any chips or loose tiles. The cost of roof repair depends on the extent of the damage.
• Standing seam metal panels: Thicker than corrugated metal, standing seam panels last longer and hold up well to severe weather. There’s also a smaller chance of leaks because you would use hidden fasteners to install them.
• Steel shingles: Steel shingles look like asphalt but are designed to be resistant to weather, mold, and impact. However, these bonus features also increase the cost.

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Do You Have to Remove Your Existing Roof First?

Depending on your existing and new roof materials, you may be able to skip the removal process and lay a new roof directly over the old one. But it’s important to only do so if both the roof and underlayment are in good condition.

When to leave shingles in place:

• The old shingles are faded, but in good condition.
• You want an extra layer of insulation.
• Your roof isn’t leaking.

When to remove old shingles:

• The old shingles are broken or warped.
• You have an active roof leak. 
• You want to ensure the new roof meets warranty requirements.

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When Is the Best Time to Replace a Roof?

Fall is the busiest time of year for roofing professionals because the weather is ideal for roofing projects; the cooler temperatures make it easier to work on a hot rooftop. There’s a lower risk of thunderstorms or rainfall compared to the spring or summer, and daylight hours aren’t too short to get in a full day of roofing work. Plus, completing your roof by the end of fall has your home sealed and ready for any winter weather. If you do opt to tackle a roof replacement in the fall, schedule your project early to ensure availability with your preferred roofing company.

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9 Steps to Replace a Roof

Replacing a roof requires a fairly sophisticated level of skill, as well as some specialized materials and tools. Below, we outline what you’ll need and the steps you should take to replace your roof.

Materials:

• Caulk
• Drip edge
• Flashing
• Ice dam protection
• Powdered chalk
• Roofing adhesive
• Roofing nails
• Shingles
• Underlayment

Tools:

• Air compressor
• Caulking gun
• Chalk line
• Fall safety kit
• Hammer
• Ladder
• Nail gun
• Pry bar
• Roof shovel
• Shingle cutter
• Tape measure
• Tin snips
• Utility knife

Step 1: Check Permit Requirements

Most local jurisdictions require a permit for replacing an entire roof. Before you start the project, find out how long the permit process takes, how much it costs, and when inspections are required. A professional roofing contractor may take care of these steps for you. 

Step 2: Remove the Old Roof if Necessary

Before installing a new roof, you must remove the entire old roof first. Rent a dumpster to simplify the cleanup process as you tear off old shingles. A roofing shovel makes the job easier and you can take off gutters and ridge vents at the same time. 

Step 3: Repair Damaged Sheathing

Check for any watermarks, rot, or other signs of damage on the framing under the shingles. You may also need new sheathing, which you must attach to the roof deck to serve as a foundation for your new shingles. 

Step 4: Install a Drip Edge and Ice Barriers

If you’re installing shingles on eaves or gables, you may need a drip edge to help direct water to the gutters. In areas with extreme winters, you may also be required to install ice barriers. These go on before the shingles. 

Step 5: Lay Paper

The next step is to install felt paper, which captures moisture between the shingles and the sheathing. Tack down the paper with either a stapler or roofing nail every foot, then overlap the felt sheets by four inches to maximize protection. 

Step 6: Add Flashing

You’ll need to add flashing in areas where there are peaks or valleys in your roof line, such as around chimneys or dormers. Use metal flashing, and seal it with caulk to prevent leaks.

Step 7: Install Shingles

Now it’s time to lay the roof shingles. Measure your roof in advance to make sure you have enough material. Then get started by installing a strip of starter shingles from the edge of the roof, moving your way up with the next layer of shingles. Use a chalk line to ensure straight lines. Most professional roofers use a pneumatic nailer to quickly get the job done. 

Step 8: Create a Roof Ridge

Once you reach a peak, create a ridge cap or vent. This is the final touch for a completely waterproof roof. 

Step 9: Finish Permit Inspection Process

The final step is to clean up and finalize the permit process. An inspector from your city or county will come by to evaluate the work before giving a final stamp of approval.

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New Roof Care

After you install a new roof, take the proper measures to protect your investment. Here are three things to do each year to keep your roof in the best shape possible. 

Clean the Gutters

Gutters prevent water from damaging the structure of your roof and home. But if they get clogged with leaves or other debris, rainwater can’t move through and ends up sitting or backing up onto the roof. That can damage the shingles and eventually lead to roof leaks, causing unseen water damage throughout your home’s interior. 

Clean out the gutters at least twice a year in the spring and fall. Wait until most leaves have fallen before taking on this project in the autumn months. Then do it again after winter storms have passed and any potential debris has settled. If your roof is high or you’re pressed for time, hire a contractor to complete the job for you. 

Trim Overhanging Trees

Overhanging tree branches are another hazard that can cause severe damage to your roof. Not only can fallen limbs impact the structure of your home, but also ongoing scraping against your shingles can damage your roof. Plus, deteriorating leaves that accumulate on your roof can rot and cause mold and water damage.

It’s best to hire an insured arborist to trim your trees each year. That way, you’re not liable for any bodily injuries or property damage. The arborist will also ensure your trees remain healthy and attractive to maintain your home’s curb appeal.

Get an Annual Inspection

Hiring a roofer for an annual inspection is a low-cost way to maintain your roof and address minor issues before they escalate. According to Angi.com, the average cost of an inspection is between $125 and $342, depending on where you live and your roof’s size. The contractor looks for issues and repairs cracked shingles or removes any mold that’s growing.

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Can You Replace a Roof by Yourself?

While it is possible to replace a roof by yourself, we would not recommend doing so. Most people do not have the proper skills or equipment to safely execute the project. You may save money on installation costs, but you’ll also need to rent or purchase specialized equipment such as safety gear, an air compressor, shingle cutters, and more. Also factor in disposal costs of your old roof materials, which costs up to $800 per week for large projects (via Angi). You may need to take days off from work to complete the project within a reasonable time frame.

Plus, remember that a full roof replacement typically requires that you go through a local permitting and inspection process. By hiring a professional, you’ll take those time-consuming responsibilities off your plate. Finally, a professionally installed roof ensures your homeowners insurance policy covers any related future damage, which may not be the case for a DIY job.

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Our Recommendation

Even if you’re an avid home improvement DIY’er, roofing requires a large amount of skill and experience. Not only are there additional personal risks because of the height, but also the potential for damaging your home’s structural integrity is high. Consequently, we recommend hiring a licensed and insured roofing contractor who has the expertise and specialized tools needed to do a quality job and protect the investment you’ve made in your home.

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