Getting a new roof is a big project, but for most homes it’s over in a single day. Knowing what to expect makes the day go smoothly for you, your family, and your pets.
Here’s how a typical roof replacement day goes with Iron Ridge Roofing, plus a simple checklist to get your home ready.
Before Install Day
Once you’ve approved your plan and pricing, we’ll schedule your install and keep you updated. We watch the weather closely and will let you know if the forecast changes anything.
Materials and a dumpster or trailer for the old roof may arrive ahead of time. We’ll talk with you about where they’ll go so they’re out of your way.
Your Prep Checklist
- Move cars out of the garage and driveway, so they’re clear of the work area and you can come and go.
- Clear the area around the house. Move patio furniture, grills, planters, and yard decorations away from the walls.
- Take down wall hangings on top-floor walls. Hammering on the roof can shake pictures and mirrors loose.
- Cover things in the attic. A sheet or tarp over stored items keeps dust and debris off them.
- Plan for your pets. The noise can stress dogs and cats, so keep them inside, in a quiet room, or with a friend for the day.
- Give your neighbors a heads-up. They’ll appreciate knowing about the noise and trucks.
- Tell us about anything special: sprinkler heads, septic lines, garden beds you’re protective of, or tricky driveway access.
How the Day Goes
1. Protecting your property
Before any work starts, we cover landscaping and the areas around your home with tarps to catch debris.
2. Tear-off
We remove the old roof down to the deck. This is the loudest part of the day.
3. Deck inspection
With the old roof off, we check the wood decking underneath. If we find damaged or rotted sections, we’ll let you know before they’re replaced.
4. The new roof system
Next comes underlayment, drip edge, flashing around chimneys, walls, and valleys, and then your new shingles or metal, finished with ridge caps and ventilation.
Most replacements are finished in one day. Larger or more complex roofs can take 2–3 days, and we’ll tell you up front if yours is one of them.
Cleanup
A roof isn’t done until the yard is clean. Our cleanup includes:
- Magnetic nail sweeps of the yard, driveway, and walkways
- All debris hauled off, with nothing left behind
- Tarps removed and landscaping checked
Your property should look better than when we arrived. One of our customers, Barbara, said it simply: they “didn’t leave until everything was cleaned up.”
The Final Walkthrough
Before we call a roof done, the owner personally does a final walkthrough with you. It’s your chance to see the finished work, ask questions, and make sure you’re happy with it. We’ll also go over your warranty.
Curious what this all costs? Here’s what drives the price of a new roof →
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a roof replacement take?
Most residential roof replacements are completed in one day, depending on roof size, weather, and complexity. Larger or more complex roofs may take 2–3 days.
Do I need to be home during the install?
No. You don’t need to be home while we work. Many homeowners go about their day as usual. Just make sure we can get to the roof and driveway area, and the owner will walk the finished roof with you.
Is it loud?
Yes. Tearing off an old roof and nailing down a new one is noisy, especially in the morning. Plan accordingly if you work from home, have a new baby, or have pets that are sensitive to noise.
What if it rains?
We watch the forecast closely and schedule around bad weather. If weather moves in during a job, we protect the roof so your home stays dry.
