How to Install a New Roof: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Installing a new roof or repairing an existing one can be a significant home improvement project that can not only protect your home from the elements but also increase its value. A new roof is an investment that will provide long-term benefits, and with the right planning, preparation, and attention to detail, the average U.S. homeowner can complete this project successfully. This guide will provide a step-by-step guide to help you plan and execute the project effectively.

Step 1: Assess Your Roof's Condition

• Climb a ladder to inspect the roof and look for any signs of damage, such as missing or cracked shingles, holes, or other signs of wear and tear.
• Check the gutters and downspouts for any signs of water damage or leaks.
• Inspect the roof deck for any sagging or signs of rot.
• Take photos or make notes of any damage or issues that you find.

Step 2: Obtain the Necessary Permits and Inspections

• Visit your local building department website or office to determine if you need a permit for your roofing project.
• Submit the necessary permit application and pay any fees.
• Arrange for a licensed building inspector to inspect your work at various stages of the project, such as after the old roofing material has been removed, after the new roofing materials have been installed, and after the final inspection.

Step 3: Gather Tools and Materials

• Make a list of all the tools and materials you'll need, including a ladder, roofing hammer, utility knife, roofing nails, roofing cement, roofing shingles, and any other materials specific to your roofing project.
• Purchase or rent all the necessary tools and materials.
• Rent a dumpster for disposal of the old roofing material and debris.

Step 4: Remove the Old Roofing Material

• Start by removing the shingles and any other roofing material that covers the roof deck.
• Work from the ridge of the roof down to the eaves, removing the roofing material in sections.
• Place the removed roofing material in the dumpster for disposal.
• Inspect the roof deck for any damage or deterioration and make any necessary repairs.

Step 5: Repair the Roof Deck

• If necessary, replace any damaged boards or add new ones to create a solid base for your new roof.
• Sand or plane the roof deck to ensure a smooth surface for the new roofing materials.
• Clean the roof deck thoroughly to remove any debris or dust.

Step 6: Install Ice and Water Shield

• Cut the ice and water shield to fit the eaves and valleys of your roof.
• Apply roofing cement to the roof deck to secure the ice and water shield in place.
• Overlap the ice and water shield and secure it with roofing nails.

Step 7: Install Underlayment

• Cut the underlayment to fit the roof deck.
• Apply roofing cement to the roof deck to secure the underlayment in place.
• Overlap the underlayment and secure it with roofing nails, making sure to stagger the seams.

Step 8: Install Roofing Material

Choose the type of roofing material you would like to install (asphalt shingles, metal panels, tile, slate, wood shingles and shake, synthetic roofing products):

Asphalt Shingles:

Pros: Widely available, low cost, easy to install, variety of colors and styles to choose from. Cons: Relatively short lifespan compared to other roofing materials, less durable. Cost: Asphalt shingles typically cost between $2.00 to $7.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 20 to 25 years.

Instructions:

• Start installing the asphalt shingles at the eaves and work your way up the roof.
• Cut the shingles to fit the eaves, valleys, and other areas where full shingles cannot be used.
• Apply roofing cement to secure the shingles in place.
• Stagger the shingles and overlap them correctly to ensure a secure and watertight installation.
• Repeat the process for each row of shingles, working up the roof to the ridge.

Metal Panels:

Pros: Durable, fire-resistant, energy-efficient, low maintenance. Cons: High upfront cost, limited color options, may require specialized installation. Cost: Metal panels typically cost between $8.00 to $14.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 50+ years.

Instructions:

• Measure and cut the metal panels to fit the roof, allowing for appropriate overlap and expansion.
• Install underlayment, such as roofing felt, to protect the roof deck.
• Secure the panels to the roof deck using screws and roofing washers.
• Seal any exposed seams with roofing sealant.

Clay and Concrete Tiles:

Pros: Long lifespan, low maintenance, fire-resistant, adds character and style to the home. Cons: Heavy, brittle, high upfront cost, difficult to install. Cost: Clay and concrete tiles typically cost between $10.00 to $20.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 50+ years.

Instructions:

• Install underlayment, such as roofing felt, to protect the roof deck.
• Lay out the tiles on the roof to determine proper placement.
• Install roof battens to provide a base for the tiles to sit on.
• Secure the tiles to the roof deck using mortar or roofing adhesive.
• Seal any exposed seams with roofing sealant.

Slate:

Pros: Long lifespan, durable, fire-resistant, adds character and style to the home. Cons: Heavy, brittle, high upfront cost, difficult to install. Cost: Slate roofing typically costs between $15.00 to $30.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 50+ years.

Instructions:

• Install underlayment, such as roofing felt, to protect the roof deck.
• Lay out the slate tiles on the roof to determine proper placement.
• Install roof battens to provide a base for the tiles to sit on.
• Secure the tiles to the roof deck using mortar or roofing adhesive.
• Seal any exposed seams with roofing sealant.

Wood Shingles and Shake:

Pros: Adds character and style to the home, renewable resource. Cons: High maintenance, susceptible to rot and insect damage, shorter lifespan. Cost: Wood shingles and shake typically cost between $7.00 and $20.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 15 to 30 years.

Instructions:

• Install underlayment, such as roofing felt, to protect the roof deck.
• Start installing the shingles at the eaves and work your way up the roof.
• Cut the shingles to fit the eaves, valleys, and other areas where full shingles cannot be used.
• Apply roofing cement to secure the shingles in place.
• Stagger the shingles and overlap them correctly to ensure a secure and watertight installation.
• Repeat the process for each row of shingles, working up the roof to the ridge.

Synthetic Roofing Products:

Pros: Durable, low maintenance, fire-resistant, energy-efficient, variety of colors and styles to choose from. Cons: High upfront cost, may require specialized installation. Cost: Synthetic roofing products typically cost between $7.00 and $15.00 per square foot installed. Lifespan: 30 to 50 years.

Instructions:

• Measure and cut the synthetic roofing panels to fit the roof, allowing for appropriate overlap and expansion.
• Install underlayment, such as roofing felt, to protect the roof deck.
• Secure the panels to the roof deck using screws and roofing washers.
• Seal any exposed seams with roofing sealant.

Step 9: Install Ridge Caps

• Cut the ridge caps to fit the ridge of the roof.
• Apply roofing cement to secure the ridge caps in place.
• Overlap the ridge caps and secure them with roofing nails.

Step 10: Clean Up

• Remove any roofing material, nails, and other debris from the roof, eaves, and ground.
• Clean up the surrounding area, including the gutters and downspouts.
• Check for any damage to the surrounding landscape or property and make any necessary repairs.

Step 11: Check for Leaks and Problem Areas

• Wait for a rainy day and inspect the roof for any leaks or other issues.
• Check the interior of the attic for any signs of water damage or leaks.
• Check around chimneys, vents, and flashings for any signs of water damage or leaks.
• Make any necessary repairs to prevent leaks and ensure a watertight roof.

Step 12: Schedule a Final Inspection

• Schedule a final inspection with your local building department to ensure that your work meets the local building codes and standards.
• Allow the inspector to inspect the roof and sign off on the project.
• Receive a certificate of completion from the building department and keep it for your records.

Installing a new roof or repairing an existing one is a significant home improvement project that requires careful planning, preparation, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, the average U.S. homeowner can complete this project successfully and increase the value of their home. It's important to research and choose the right roofing materials and to work with a licensed and experienced contractor if necessary. With the right planning and preparation, you can ensure a successful and satisfying outcome for your roofing project.