A roof replacement transforms your home's protection for the next two decades or more. The process itself takes only a few days, but proper planning and realistic expectations make those days go smoothly.
San Diego homeowners considering roof replacement often wonder what the process actually looks like. From first inspection to final walkthrough, here's how quality contractors approach the job.
The Assessment Process
Before any work begins, your contractor should conduct a thorough inspection. They'll examine the roof surface, check the attic for damage signs, and evaluate the overall structure. This inspection reveals what lies beneath the visible shingles.
Quality inspections take time. A contractor who glances at your roof from the driveway and quotes a price is guessing. Proper assessment requires getting on the roof, probing soft spots, examining flashing, and checking ventilation. The inspection findings shape the project scope.
The estimate should detail everything clearly. What materials will be used? What preparation work is included? What might require additional charges if discovered during tear-off? A detailed estimate prevents surprise costs later.
Once you've accepted a proposal, permitting comes next. San Diego requires permits for roof replacement. Your contractor handles this process, including required inspections at various project stages.
Preparation matters for your comfort and property protection. Before the crew arrives, move vehicles away from the work area. Secure or relocate outdoor furniture, planters, and decorations. Mention any sensitive landscaping that needs protection.
The tear-off phase is the messiest. Crews will strip the existing roofing down to the deck, revealing any hidden damage. Old shingles, underlayment, and debris go into a dumpster. This phase typically completes in one day for an average-sized home.
Deck inspection happens once the old roofing is removed. Damaged sheathing gets replaced before new roofing goes on. This step is crucial—installing new materials over compromised decking guarantees future problems.
The sounds of roof replacement can be jarring. Hammering, nail guns, and material handling create significant noise. Plan accordingly if you work from home or have noise-sensitive family members.
Underlayment installation follows deck repair. This waterproof barrier beneath your shingles provides critical protection if water ever penetrates the surface layer. In San Diego's climate, synthetic underlayment outperforms traditional felt.
The new roofing material goes on next, starting at the lowest edge and working upward. Proper overlap patterns shed water effectively. Flashing installation at penetrations and transitions demands particular attention—these areas cause most leaks when done poorly.
Ridge installation completes the major work. Ridge caps seal the peak of your roof while providing essential ventilation through ridge vents.
Final cleanup should leave your property spotless. Magnetic sweepers collect fallen nails. Tarps protect landscaping during debris removal. A conscientious crew leaves no trace of their work except the new roof above.
The final walkthrough lets you examine the completed work. Walk the perimeter with your contractor. Ask about any areas that concern you. Confirm warranty registration and receive documentation for your records.
Post-installation inspection by the city confirms code compliance. Your contractor schedules this as part of the permit process. Once approved, you'll receive final paperwork confirming the work meets all requirements.
