Overview: The Complete Roofing Process

A professional roof replacement typically takes 2-4 days for an average home (1,500 sq ft roof). This guide covers every step from arrival to final cleanup, exactly as we do it at RJ Roofing Bros.

Timeline:

• Day 1 (Morning): Site setup, material delivery, tear-off
• Day 1 (Afternoon): Deck inspection/repair, underlayment, drip edge
• Day 2: Shingle installation, flashing, penetrations
• Day 3: Ridge cap, final inspection, cleanup

PRE-ARRIVAL PREPARATION (Day Before)

Homeowner Preparation

Exterior:

• Move vehicles from driveway (need space for dumpster and boom truck)
• Remove items from walls (vibration will knock things down)
• Trim overhanging branches within 6 feet of roof
• Clear path to electrical panel (may need to shut off power)
• Protect landscaping (cover plants near house)
• Notify neighbors (noise, dust, trucks)

Interior:

• Remove items from attic (dust will fall through)
• Cover attic items with tarps
• Remove fragile items from walls (vibration)
• Plan for pets (keep them inside or away from work area)

Contractor Preparation

Material Ordering:

• Calculate squares needed (roof sq ft ÷ 100, add 10% waste)
• Order shingles (ensure same lot number for color consistency)
• Order underlayment, ice & water shield, drip edge, ridge cap
• Schedule boom truck delivery (if applicable)
• Arrange dumpster delivery

Crew & Equipment:

• Crew size: 3-5 workers for average home
• Tools: Roofing nailers, compressor, ladders, safety equipment
• Verify weather forecast (no rain for 3-4 days)

DAY 1 MORNING: SITE SETUP & MATERIAL DELIVERY

Step 1: Site Setup (7:00 AM - 7:30 AM)

Dumpster Placement:

1. Position dumpster: As close to house as possible (minimizes carrying distance)
2. Protect driveway: Place plywood under dumpster wheels
3. Clear landing zone: Area below roof edge for debris chute

Ground Protection:

1. Lay tarps: Around house perimeter to catch debris and nails
2. Protect landscaping: Cover plants, gardens, AC units with plywood
3. Set up debris chute: From roof to dumpster (if applicable)

Safety Setup:

1. Post warning signs: "Caution: Roofing Work Above"
2. Rope off work area: Keep people away from falling debris zone
3. Inspect ladders: Ensure stability, proper angle (4:1 ratio)

Step 2: Material Delivery (7:30 AM - 8:30 AM)

Boom Truck Delivery (Professional Method):

1. Boom truck arrives: Hydraulic crane on truck bed
2. Position truck: Within reach of roof (typically 30-40 feet)
3. Extend boom: Hydraulic arm extends over roof
4. Lift bundles: Shingles lifted directly onto roof
   • Distribute evenly (prevents overloading one area)
   • Place on ridge or strong points (not in valleys)
   • Typically 3-4 bundles per stack
5. Advantages: Fast (15-30 minutes), reduces crew fatigue, safer than hand-carrying

Manual Delivery (DIY/Small Jobs):

1. Stage materials at ground level: Near ladder access
2. Carry bundles up ladder:
   • Shingle bundles: 70-80 lbs (2-person carry recommended)
   • Use ladder hoist or pulley system
   • Never carry more than you can safely handle
3. Distribute on roof: Spread weight evenly

Materials Delivered to Roof:

• Shingle bundles (3 bundles = 1 square = 100 sq ft coverage)
• Underlayment rolls
• Ice & water shield rolls
• Ridge cap bundles
• Starter strip

Materials Staged at Ground:

• Drip edge (eave and rake)
• Valley flashing
• Pipe boots, vents, flashing
• Nails, roofing cement, caulk

Step 3: Tear-Off (8:30 AM - 12:00 PM)

Tear-Off Process:

1. Start at ridge: Work from top down (shingles overlap downward)
2. Use roofing shovel/fork:
   • Slide under shingles
   • Pry up and push toward eave
   • Work in sections (don't expose entire roof at once)
3. Remove all layers:
   • Shingles
   • Underlayment (felt paper)
   • Old drip edge
   • All nails (critical - protruding nails puncture new underlayment)
4. Debris management:
   • Push debris to eave
   • Use debris chute to dumpster
   • Or throw directly into dumpster (if close enough)
   • Keep roof clear of debris (tripping hazard)
5. Nail removal:
   • Pull all protruding nails with hammer or cat's paw
   • Pound down nails that can't be pulled
   • Sweep deck thoroughly

Common Tear-Off Challenges:

• Multiple layers: Some roofs have 2-3 layers (takes longer)
• Stuck shingles: Heat-sealed shingles are difficult to remove
• Damaged deck: Rotten plywood discovered during tear-off

DAY 1 AFTERNOON: DECK PREP & UNDERLAYMENT

Step 4: Deck Inspection & Repair (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM)

Inspection Process:

1. Walk entire deck: Check for soft spots, rot, damage
2. Look for water stains: Indicates previous leaks
3. Check deck thickness: Minimum 7/16" OSB or 1/2" plywood
4. Verify rafter spacing: Should be 16" or 24" on center
5. Inspect for sagging: Indicates structural issues

Common Deck Issues:

• Soft spots: Rot from previous leaks (replace affected sheets)
• Delamination: OSB layers separating (replace)
• Gaps between sheets: Normal (1/8" expansion gap), but check for excessive gaps
• Protruding nails: Pull or pound down

Deck Repair:

1. Mark damaged areas: Chalk outline around rot/damage
2. Cut out damaged section:
   • Use circular saw set to deck thickness
   • Cut to nearest rafter (need solid nailing surface)
3. Install new plywood/OSB:
   • Same thickness as existing deck
   • Nail every 6 inches along rafters
   • Leave 1/8" gap for expansion
4. Photograph damage: Document for homeowner/insurance

Step 5: Install Drip Edge at Eaves (2:00 PM - 2:30 PM)

Why Eaves First:

Drip edge at eaves goes UNDER underlayment. Drip edge at rakes goes OVER underlayment. This ensures proper water flow.

Installation:

1. Start at one end: Align drip edge flush with fascia
2. Nail every 12 inches: Along top edge
3. Overlap 2 inches: Where pieces meet
4. Extend past fascia: 1/2 inch overhang into gutter
5. Install along entire eave: All eave edges

Step 6: Install Ice & Water Shield (2:30 PM - 3:30 PM)

Critical Waterproofing Layer:

Ice & water shield is a self-adhering waterproof membrane. This is your last line of defense against ice dams and wind-driven rain.

Installation:

1. Start at eaves: Apply first course along entire eave
2. Extend 36-72 inches:
   • Code minimum: 36 inches from eave
   • RJ Roofing Bros standard: 72 inches (Hope/Harrison)
   • Covers area prone to ice dams
3. Peel and stick:
   • Remove backing paper
   • Press firmly to deck
   • Use roller to ensure adhesion
4. Overlap 6 inches: Where courses meet
5. Apply to valleys:
   • 36 inches wide (18" each side of valley center)
   • Full length of valley
6. Seal penetrations: Around chimneys, skylights, plumbing vents

Step 7: Install Synthetic Underlayment (3:30 PM - 5:00 PM)

Primary Waterproofing Layer:

Synthetic underlayment is your primary defense. We NEVER use felt paper - synthetic is superior in every way.

Installation:

1. Start at eaves:
   • Align with drip edge
   • Overlap ice & water shield by 6 inches
2. Roll horizontally: Work up the roof
3. Overlap 6 inches: Each course overlaps the one below
4. Nail or staple:
   • Every 12 inches along seams
   • Every 24 inches in field
   • Cap nails or staples (large head)
5. Keep wrinkle-free: Smooth as you go
6. Overlap ridges: 6 inches over peak

Step 8: Install Drip Edge at Rakes (5:00 PM - 5:30 PM)

Rake Drip Edge Goes OVER Underlayment:

1. Apply over underlayment: Along gable ends (rakes)
2. Nail every 12 inches: Through underlayment into deck
3. Overlap 2 inches: Where pieces meet

End of Day 1: Weatherproofing Check

Critical: Roof must be weatherproof overnight.

• All underlayment installed
• No exposed deck
• Tarps over any incomplete areas
• Tools and materials secured

DAY 2: SHINGLE INSTALLATION

Step 9: Install Valley Flashing (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM)

Open Valley Method (Our Standard):

1. Center flashing in valley: 24-36 inch wide metal
2. Nail edges only: 1 inch from edge, every 12 inches
3. Overlap upslope: 12 inches where pieces meet
4. Seal laps: With roofing cement

Step 10: Install Starter Strip (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM)

Critical First Course:

1. Use starter strip shingles: Pre-made or cut regular shingles
2. Align with drip edge: Overhang 1/2 to 3/4 inch
3. Nail 3-4 inches from edge: Above adhesive strip
4. Butt joints tightly: No gaps between pieces
5. Install along eaves and rakes: Entire perimeter

Step 11: Establish Chalk Lines (9:00 AM - 9:30 AM)

Ensure Straight Courses:

1. Measure shingle exposure: Typically 5-5/8 inches for architectural
2. Snap horizontal lines: Every 2-3 courses (10-17 inches)
3. Snap vertical lines: Every 3-4 feet to maintain alignment
4. Use contrasting chalk: Red or blue (not white)

Step 12: Install Field Shingles (9:30 AM - 5:00 PM)

Nailing Pattern (CRITICAL):

• Standard areas: 4 nails per shingle (code minimum)
• High-wind areas: 6 nails per shingle (Hope, Chilliwack, Agassiz)
• Nail placement:
  • Just below adhesive strip
  • 1 inch from edges
  • Flush with shingle surface (not over-driven, not under-driven)

Installation Process:

1. First course:
   • Align with chalk line
   • Overhang drip edge 1/2 to 3/4 inch
   • Nail properly (4-6 nails per shingle)
2. Subsequent courses:
   • Offset joints 6+ inches from course below
   • Align with chalk lines every 2-3 courses
   • Maintain consistent 5-5/8 inch exposure
   • Work across and up
3. Valley cuts:
   • Snap chalk line 2-3 inches from valley center
   • Cut shingles along line
   • Clip corners 45 degrees
   • Seal cut edges with roofing cement
4. Rake cuts:
   • Overhang 1/2 to 3/4 inch past drip edge
   • Cut from top for clean edge

Step 13: Flash Penetrations (Throughout Day 2)

Plumbing Vents:

1. Install pipe boot: Slide over pipe, nail flange
2. Shingle over flange: Top and sides covered, bottom exposed
3. Seal with caulk: Around pipe-to-boot junction

Roof Vents:

1. Position vent: Over opening in deck
2. Nail flange: To deck
3. Shingle over flange: Top and sides covered

Chimneys (Complex - See Dedicated Guide):

1. Base flashing at bottom
2. Step flashing on sides (one piece per course)
3. Counter flashing embedded in mortar
4. Cricket on upslope side (if chimney is 30+ inches wide)

DAY 3: RIDGE CAP & FINAL DETAILS

Step 14: Install Ridge Cap Shingles (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Final Waterproofing:

1. Use ridge cap shingles: Pre-made or cut from regular shingles
2. Start at end opposite prevailing wind: Wind blows over laps, not under
3. Overlap 5-6 inches: Each cap overlaps previous
4. Nail each side:
   • 1 inch from edge
   • 5-1/2 inches from end
   • 2 nails per cap (one each side)
5. Seal final cap: Dab of roofing cement under last cap

Step 15: Final Inspection (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM)

Quality Control Checklist:

• ✓ All shingles properly nailed (no visible nails, no lifted edges)
• ✓ Straight courses (no waves or dips)
• ✓ Proper overhang at eaves and rakes (1/2 to 3/4 inch)
• ✓ Valley cuts clean and sealed
• ✓ Ridge caps secure and overlapping correctly
• ✓ All penetrations properly flashed
• ✓ No exposed underlayment or ice & water shield
• ✓ No debris on roof

Step 16: Cleanup (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM)

Thorough Site Cleanup:

1. Roof cleanup:
   • Remove all debris, packaging, cutoffs
   • Sweep entire roof
   • Check gutters for debris
2. Ground cleanup:
   • Magnetic sweep (picks up nails)
   • Run magnet over entire property (driveway, lawn, walkways)
   • Multiple passes (nails are everywhere)
3. Remove tarps: Shake out debris before folding
4. Clean gutters: Remove granules and debris
5. Haul away dumpster: Schedule pickup
6. Final walkthrough with homeowner: Show completed work

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS: RJ ROOFING BROS

What Sets Professional Installation Apart

1. Proper Nailing (6-Nail Protocol)

• We use 6 nails per shingle in Fraser Valley (code requires 4)
• Wind uplift resistance is critical in our area
• Proper nail depth (flush, not over-driven)

2. Extended Ice & Water Shield

• We install 72 inches at eaves (code requires 36")
• Full valley coverage (36" wide minimum)
• Around all penetrations

3. Synthetic Underlayment (Always)

• We NEVER use felt paper
• Synthetic is waterproof, tear-resistant, and lasts 30+ years
• Felt absorbs moisture and degrades

4. Open Valley Method

• Superior water shedding
• Easier to maintain
• Longer lifespan than closed valleys

5. Thorough Cleanup

• Magnetic sweep (multiple passes)
• Gutter cleaning included
• Haul away all debris

Common Mistakes (DIY & Low-Quality Contractors)

1. Under-Nailing

Using 4 nails instead of 6. This is the #1 cause of shingle blow-offs in our area.

2. Skipping Ice & Water Shield

Saving $200-400 can cost $5,000-15,000 in water damage from ice dams.

3. Using Felt Paper

Felt degrades in 5-10 years. Synthetic lasts 30+ years.

4. Improper Flashing

90% of roof leaks are caused by flashing failures, not shingle failures.

5. Poor Cleanup

Nails left in driveway cause flat tires. Nails in lawn are dangerous.

The Bottom Line

A complete roof replacement is a complex, multi-day process requiring specialized knowledge, equipment, and experience. Every step matters - from tear-off to final cleanup.

At RJ Roofing Bros, we've perfected this process over 8+ years and hundreds of roofs. We know the details that prevent leaks and ensure longevity: 6-nail protocol, extended ice & water shield, synthetic underlayment, open valleys, and thorough cleanup. We warranty our work because we do it right.

DIY roofing saves $3,000-5,000 in labor but risks $10,000-20,000 in mistakes. Unless you have professional training and experience, hire a qualified contractor.

Ready for a professional roof replacement? Call (604) 997-1292 for a free quote.