When you’re already planning a major remodel, adding a new roof can feel overwhelming. The good news: understanding the roof replacement process step by step makes it easier to plan, budget, and protect the rest of your renovation. Stonehaven Remodeling Services walks homeowners through this every day, and the steps are more straightforward than you might think.

1. Know When a Roof Replacement Makes Sense

Before you commit, confirm that you truly need a new roof and not just a repair. Common signs include:

• Shingles that are curling, cracked, or missing
• Frequent leaks or water stains on ceilings
• Granules from shingles collecting in gutters
• Sagging areas on the roof deck
• A roof that’s at or past its expected lifespan

During a renovation, it often makes sense to replace an aging roof before you invest in new drywall, paint, cabinets, or flooring. A leaking roof is one of the fastest ways to ruin new interior work.

2. Start With a Roof Inspection and Estimate

The process usually begins with a professional inspection and written estimate. Your contractor should:

• Walk the roof and check shingles, flashing, and penetrations
• Inspect the attic for moisture, mold, or daylight showing through
• Look at the roof deck from inside where possible
• Explain what absolutely needs replacement and what’s optional

Ask for a clear, line-by-line estimate that breaks down:

• Tear-off and disposal
• Decking repairs (if needed)
• Underlayment and ice & water shield
• Shingles or other roofing materials
• Flashing, vents, and accessories
• Labor, permits, and warranties

If you want to learn more about comparing roofing materials, you can review this helpful guide to roofing material types.

3. Coordinate Roof Work With Your Other Renovations

Timing matters when you’re remodeling multiple parts of your home. In many cases, Stonehaven Remodeling Services recommends:

1. Roof replacement first
   • Protects new drywall, insulation, and finishes from leaks
   • Prevents debris and vibration from damaging fresh interior work
2. Exterior work next
   • Siding, windows, and gutters can be aligned with the new roof
3. Interior finishes last
   • Paint, flooring, cabinetry, and trim go in once the home is fully weather-tight

Your contractor should coordinate schedules so you’re not dealing with roof tear-off while kitchen cabinets are being installed or fresh paint is curing.

4. Step-by-Step Roof Replacement Process

Here’s what typically happens once you sign the contract and schedule the job.

Step 1: Permits and Material Ordering

The contractor secures necessary permits and orders your chosen materials (shingles, underlayment, flashing, vents). You’ll confirm:

• Shingle type and color
• Underlayment and ice barrier options
• Ventilation solutions (ridge vents, box vents, etc.)

Step 2: Site Protection and Setup

On installation day, the crew will:

• Protect landscaping and walkways with tarps
• Set up dump trailers or containers for debris
• Cover nearby windows, decks, or AC units if needed
• Explain where they’ll be working and how long it will take

This stage is especially important during renovations to avoid damage to new siding, doors, or finished landscaping.

Step 3: Tear-Off of Old Roofing

The old shingles and underlayment are removed down to the deck. This can be noisy and messy, but a good crew will:

• Work in sections to stay organized
• Keep debris moving directly into dumpsters
• Perform a quick clean-up as they go

Step 4: Deck Inspection and Repairs

Once the roof deck is exposed, the team checks for:

• Rotten, soft, or water-damaged plywood
• Loose or improperly fastened boards
• Structural problems that need attention

Any damaged decking is replaced before moving on. Skipping this step risks future leaks even with brand new shingles.

Step 5: Underlayment, Ice Barrier, and Flashing

Next comes the waterproofing layer:

• Ice & water shield installed in vulnerable areas (eaves, valleys, around chimneys and penetrations)
• Synthetic or felt underlayment installed over the deck
• New flashing around chimneys, skylights, walls, and vents

These components are critical to long-term performance, especially if your renovation includes new insulation or drywall that you don’t want exposed to moisture.

Step 6: Installing the New Roofing Material

Now the new roof goes on:

• Starter strips installed at the eaves
• Shingles laid in rows according to manufacturer specs
• Hips and ridges capped with matching shingles
• Vents and accessories integrated as they go

High-quality installation is just as important as the product you choose. Incorrect nailing, overdriven fasteners, or poor alignment can void warranties.

Step 7: Cleanup and Magnet Sweep

Once shingles are installed, the crew will:

• Remove tarps and gather loose debris
• Run a magnet over the yard and driveway to catch stray nails
• Haul off dumpsters or trailers

A thorough cleanup is part of a professional roof replacement process and helps you get back to normal life quickly.

Step 8: Final Inspection and Walkthrough

Finally, the contractor should:

• Inspect the roof for uniformity and proper flashing
• Verify vents are open and functioning
• Check gutters and downspouts for debris
• Walk the property with you, answer questions, and review warranty details

This is the time to point out anything that looks off and get it fixed before the crew leaves.

5. How Roof Replacement Affects the Inside of Your Home

During a renovation, interior areas may be open or partially finished. Protect them by:

• Covering furniture, cabinets, and countertops with plastic
• Removing fragile items from walls and shelves (there will be vibration)
• Keeping kids and pets away from work zones
• Planning noisy tear-off days when you don’t have important calls or meetings at home

If Stonehaven Remodeling Services is handling both your roofing and interior remodeling, the team can coordinate protection and sequencing so one crew isn’t undoing another’s work. To see how roofing fits into a full renovation plan, you can review our remodeling services overview.

6. Choosing the Right Contractor for Your Roof Replacement

A roof is a long-term investment, so choose your contractor carefully. Ask:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• Who will be on-site managing the crew?
• What warranties do you offer on labor and materials?
• How will you protect my home, yard, and ongoing renovation work?
• What is the expected start date and duration once we sign?

Look for clear answers, detailed written estimates, and a willingness to explain the process in plain language.

7. Ready to Talk Through Your Roof Replacement Process?

When your roof and your renovation plans need to line up, you don’t just need a roofer—you need a remodeling partner who understands the whole picture. Stonehaven Remodeling Services can help you:

• Decide if now is the right time to replace your roof
• Plan the roof work around your interior or exterior upgrades
• Choose materials that match your home’s style and long-term goals
• Complete the project with minimal disruption to your daily life

If you’re planning a renovation and think a new roof might be part of the equation, reach out to Stonehaven Remodeling Services to schedule a consultation and get a clear, step-by-step plan for your roof replacement process.