The Proper Steps To a Basic Shingle Roof Replacement:

Step 1:  Preparing the area of the roof to make sure that no debris will fall off of the house.

This sometimes involves installing a 2×4 or plank on roof jacks at the base perimeter of the roof.  This also aids in safety if the roof is steep.  On my roof installs I carry all waste from the roof and throw it directly into a dump trailer.  This ensures that I will only have to handle the debris once, and saves more time in the scheme of the whole job than pushing the debris off the roof and then having to handle again.  It also keeps the ground clean and safe from falling shingles.  Some roof companies have roofer’s buggies (which is a self propelled dump trailer that can be lifted close to the roof edge) and claim that they keep the ground cleaner, but with proper care and taking a little extra time, debris can be carried to the trailer in the driveway with very minimal mess.  Also, these buggies can leave tracks in the yard, especially if they are loaded with heavy shingles.

Step 2:  Cleaning and sweeping the entire roof.

This involves cleaning out gutters, sweeping up all nails, and getting all the debris neatly in the trailer.

Step 3:  Inspecting Roof Sheating

Inspect plywood to make sure it is all properly fastened, and free from dry rot or water damage.  Sometimes this involves removing a rotten piece of plywood and installing a new piece.  Also, sometimes it is necessary to re-nail sections that were not properly nailed upon construction.

Step 4:  Making sure that the roof is properly ventilated.

Cutting ridge vent in at the top of the roof if this is not already done.

Step 6:  Installing drip edge to entire perimeter of the roof.

Step 7:  Installing Ice and Water Shield

Install ice and water shield to all valleys, bases of roof, and other prone areas like around chimneys, or low pitch areas.

Step 8:  Installation of felt paper to the rest of the prepared substrate.

Step 9:  Installation of shingles to roof deck.

It is very important that the shingles are installed as the factory suggests.

Step 10: Proper metal flashing to be installed where needed.

Install step flashing where roofing meets wall, and new chimney flashing around chimneys.

Step 11:  Installation of ridge vent to allow roof to breath properly.

Step 12:  Cleaning all dust and debris off of roof, and making sure all the ground and gutters are free of any missed debris.

Step 13:  Making sure the customer is satisfied !