Installation times for a new roof vary, with simple jobs often taking as little as two days and more involved jobs taking a week or longer. Knowing the factors that impact installation time can help you get an accurate timeline estimate.
1. Tear Down Requirements
Tear down is the first step in any roof replacement. A roof tear down is when your roofers rip off the old shingles, flashings, and underlayment in preparation of installing the new roof. On an average home, this process can take one to two days. There are ways to shorten this process. For example, if you opt for re-shingling, which means the new shingles are laid directly on top of the old, a teardown won't be necessary. Your roofer can let you know if your roof is a candidate for re-shingling.
2. Necessary Repairs
The amount and severity of repairs needed is another major contributor to installation time. If there is minimal damage to the main structure of the roof, the job will be relatively quick and straightforward. On the other hand, if the decking (the main sheathing of the roof) is damaged, then replacement of the main roof structure can add a day or more to the project. If there are issues with supports, such as trusses and joists, or the need to install new hardware, such as hurricane straps, then your roofer may need to add several days to the estimated installation time.
3. Roof Size
It stands to reason that a larger roof will require longer to install than a smaller roof. It's important to note that house size doesn't necessarily equate to roof size, though. A large house can have a relatively simple two-plane, moderately pitched gable end roof. A small house, on the other hand, may have a multi-planed hip roof with two opposed pitches that actually equate to more square footage and fiddly bits compared to the larger home's simple roof. Your roofer will take into account the actual size and complications of the roof when quoting you a time estimate.
4. Additions and Features
Roofs with existing features, like skylights, may require a bit more time to install because your roofer will need to make sure the skylights are properly sealed and that water routes around them properly. Other additions that can affect installation time include installing new roof vents or vent covers, replacing vent pipe boots, or installing special roof coatings or heat cables to guard against weathering issues.
Contact a roof replacement service if you have more questions.
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