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Are you thinking about upgrading your roof? Perhaps a storm left its mark or you’ve noticed some damage—whatever the reason, you’re gearing up for a big project. The decision to install a new roof is a significant investment in your home’s safety, comfort, and curb appeal. Naturally, you might wonder: “What happens during a roof installation?”
At Findlay Roofing, we’ve been serving Georgia homeowners for years with exceptional craftsmanship and reliable service. We’re here to walk you through every step of the roof installation process so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
The Preparation Phase: Getting Ready Together
Have you ever heard the saying, “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail”? At Findlay Roofing, we wholeheartedly agree with that thought. Preparation is key to any successful roofing project. That’s why, during the initial consultation and inspection, we’ll carefully outline the details of the roofing process.
Do you have specific questions about the timeline or about protecting your property? We’ll address your concerns upfront. We want you to feel confident and comfortable with the installation plan from start to finish.
We believe clear communication builds trust and sets the stage for a smooth experience.
Navigating the project timeline
When considering a new roof installation, one of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How long will it take?”
Every roof is a little different. On average, a project may take 1 to 3 weeks, but the exact timeframe for installing a new roof depends on the size and complexity of the job. For instance, a roof inspection is performed before a project begins, to check for potential damage or structural concerns.
The findings from this inspection are thereafter factored into the quote and timeline. However, once work on a roof begins, it’s not unusual to discover well-hidden issues that require repairing before the installation can continue. This is especially common with older houses which may not reveal damage until the roofing team starts the tear-off stage.
Planning a roof installation is a bit like planning a road trip: You have your route mapped out, but you should also be prepared for potential detours. While delays can be frustrating, sometimes they’re often necessary to ensure the quality of your roof. After all, rushing a job might leave you with more headaches down the line.
We deeply value your time and the trust you put in us to safeguard your home. That’s why our team communicates regularly, so you’re always in the loop about any changes. You’ll never be left wondering where we are in the process or what comes next.
Protecting your property
Installing a new roof can get messy, but that doesn’t mean your yard should look like a tornado hit it. For professional roofers, there’s never an excuse for carelessness. When you hire a roofing company, you can rightfully expect them to exercise care and concern for your property.
At Findlay Roofing, our skilled team will treat your home like it’s our own. Before we get started on your roof, we’ll roll up our sleeves and make sure everything around your home is protected.
You can also lend a hand by clearing the area around your home, parking your vehicles a safe distance away, and giving any outdoor furniture or plants a temporary home away from dust or debris. Working as a team to protect your property ensures your home stays as orderly as possible.
To help manage waste, we’ll also bring along a dumpster before work begins (you might spot it in your driveway a day or two before we start). This allows us to keep the site tidy and ensure no hazardous materials are left behind. Our goal is to leave your home as pristine as we found it.
Keeping your family comfortable
Let’s not sugarcoat it—when your roof is being worked on, things get loud quickly. Your contractor will likely suggest you stay elsewhere so you can avoid the headache-inducing noise and constant flurry of activity. Safety may also be another concern—if the damage to your roof is extensive, you may end up living in a construction zone.
Of course, it’s your choice whether or not to stay in your home during the process.
Children and pets can easily become agitated or scared by the appearance of strangers working in the home. The constant sound of tools and equipment can be uniquely irritating or anxiety-inducing.
If you’re sticking around, and you have young children or other noise-sensitive family members, let them know what’s going on. Maybe you could even plan some outings to get them away from the hammering.
As for your furry friends, creating a relaxing, safe space at home or arranging a visit to a friend’s house can keep their tails wagging stress-free.
We’ll also work with you to make the process as smooth as possible. Have a time of day that works best for you? Let us know. Open communication ensures everyone stays comfortable while we work.
You can also let us know if there are areas on your property that you want workers to avoid. We’ll do our best to accommodate your family’s needs.
What to Expect Once the Installation Begins
As mentioned earlier, an inspection is typically done several days before or the day work begins. The inspector will take pictures and document any damage or areas of concern.
On installation day, our crew shows up early and ready to roll. We’ll say our hellos, go over the plan one last time, address any last-minute questions you might have, and then we’ll get to work setting up.
The first couple of hours are all about laying the groundwork for a smooth day ahead. This includes unloading materials, like shingles, underlayment, and flashing, as well as staging tools like ladders and power equipment. We also ensure all safety measures, such as harnesses and scaffolding, are in place.
An ounce of prevention: Protecting your outdoor fixtures
We’ll move potential hazards or damageable items like lawn furniture to a safe place away from the work area. Tarping or wooden boards may be attached from the roof line to the base of your house to protect foliage and transfer debris safely. PVC and wooden boards or other materials may be used to cover your HVAC units, outdoor grills, and other immovable fixtures.
Our team will also follow any additional safety steps outlined, such as placing tarps over your landscaping so falling debris does not damage it.
Although this stage might not seem action-packed, careful setup lays the foundation for a smooth, efficient installation.
Out with the old and in with the new: Replacing damaged decking
In general, unless you have chosen a “new shingle-over-old shingle” roof installation, the old roof must come off before we can install a new one. This is one of the most labor-intensive and important steps.
During the “tear-off” stage, our team carefully removes all existing shingles, underlayment, and flashing. Once the old materials are stripped away, we inspect the decking (the wooden base of your roof) for signs of rot or structural damage. If unexpected repairs are needed, we address them immediately to ensure your new roof has a strong and stable foundation.
With a clean slate, drip edges, ice shields, and water shields are laid. We’ll start on the underlayment, which acts as a barrier that protects your home from water infiltration. This layer is rolled out and secured across the decking, providing a watertight seal.
During this phase, we’ll also install flashing. These metal pieces are vital for preventing leaks and ensuring your roof remains weather-resistant for years to come. We pay extra attention to these details because they make all the difference in your roof’s durability.
Now comes the most visible part of the process: installing the shingles or tiles. This step transforms your roof from a construction site to a stunning, finished product. Starting at the eaves, our team works methodically upward, ensuring each shingle is aligned and secured.
Ridge vents and other ventilation components are also installed at this stage to promote airflow and extend the life of your roof. Step by step, your roof goes from bare to beautiful.
Final checks and cleanup
At Findlay Roofing, we’re not satisfied until you are. Your peace of mind is our top priority. That’s why, once the work is finished, we’ll conduct a thorough inspection to ensure every detail meets our high standards and exceeds your expectations.
Cleanup is another area where we go the extra mile. From hauling away debris to sweeping for stray nails, by the time we’re done, your property will look as pristine as it did before we arrived.
We’ll also go over the warranty details so you know how your investment is protected. Whether it’s a minor issue or a major repair, you’ll have the assurance that help is just a phone call away.
Watkinsville’s Trusted Roofers: Your Neighbors, Your Team
At Findlay Roofing, we’re more than just roofers—we’re your neighbors. We have been serving Georgia families for years with honest work and top-notch craftsmanship. When you choose us, you’re choosing a team that treats every roof like it’s our own.
If you’re planning a roof installation, we’re here to help every step of the way. From preparing your property to final inspections, we make the process easy and stress-free. When all is said and done, you’ll have more than a roof—you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home is protected for years to come.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
