If you live in a home for a long time, you must replace the roof, eventually. Even a properly installed, well-maintained roof will provide years of use and protection but will reach the end of the lifespan. If it’s time for a new roof on your home, it’s helpful to know everything a complete roof replacement entails–and it involves much more than replacing shingles.
Tearing Off Shingles.
First things first, you must tear the entire roof down to the original decking. This can be tricky and dangerous, so I don’t recommend you start DIYing and just leave it to the professionals. When tearing off the old roof, wear a safety harness. I have seen many people get hurt when roofing, and it can be avoided by wearing the correct safety gear.
The Roof’s Decking.
Once you are down to the bare deck, you will need to inspect the decking (or Sheathing) for any rotten or damaged wood. Depending on the damage, you might need to replace a few pieces of wood or the entire roof deck. The wood deck serves as the base for your roofing structure and ensures your shingles remain intact.
The Underlayment.
A full roof replacement also means replacing the underlayment, which is the water-resistant or waterproof barrier installed directly to a roof’s deck. Roofing felt is a common underlayment material and uses asphalt as its protective material. Also, DiamondDeck® High Performance Synthetic Underlayment by CertainTeed is a great material to use. A secondary water barrier like CertainTeed’s WinterGuard can be applied for even better protection against the elements.
Applying New Flashing.
Some parts of the roof are prone to leaks and water damage, including roof valleys, chimney and skylight perimeters, or wherever water runoff is heavy. Flashing, often made of rust-resistant metal, provides extra protection for those areas of heavy runoff or where two opposing surfaces meet.
Fascia and Soffit.
Some fascia or soffit around the house may be damaged or rotted and will need to be replaced with new wood. To ensure the wood will withstand the weather, you should prime and paint it.
Drip Edge
A new roof also means installing new metal drip edging around the edge of the roof.
Apply the Shingles.
Now, you have reached your final step, installing your shingles. Every shingle manufacturer has a specific way to install, so follow the NOA for that shingle.
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