A roof protects a home and its inhabitants from scorching sun, torrential rain, melting snow, and gusty winds. It also channels water away from the house, preventing basement flooding and structural damage.

Quality shingles, properly installed flashing, and securely sealed seals are key to a long-lasting, high-performing roof. A final inspection ensures compliance with industry standards, manufacturer guidelines, and local building codes. Visit Website to learn more.

A roof is the first line of defense against storm damage. Sunlight degrades shingles, wind blows debris, and heavy rains can cause water leaks. Proper roof maintenance can minimize and even prevent damage, but a damaged or worn-out roof requires repairs to restore its integrity.

In the preparation phase, contractors inspect the existing roof for damage and identify underlying issues. They also set up safety measures, such as scaffolding or safety harnesses. They may tarp the area around the roof to protect foundation plantings and driveways from construction debris. They also install drip edges and roof valley flashing to protect the eaves from rainwater. They may add new vent holes and vent flashing to improve attic ventilation and energy efficiency.

Once the crew has a safe work area, they can begin to remove the old shingles and clean the surface. They then apply a waterproof barrier to the underlayment to prevent water intrusion. They may also install ice and water shielding along the eaves and valleys to prevent ice damming and melting snow from damaging the roof structure.

If you have young children or pets, it is a good idea to find somewhere for them to stay during the roof installation. The noise and commotion can be stressful for them. If possible, have them stay with a friend or neighbor during the project.

The contractor will remove any existing shingles and debris from the roof deck and install plywood or 1 by 6 sheathing boards, depending on the type of roof. They may replace any rotted or deteriorated wood at this time as well.

Roof coatings rely on adhesion to the roofing surface, so the roofing surface must be free of dirt, grease, contaminants, tools, moisture, or loose materials. If the surface is not properly cleaned, the restoration system will detach from the roof.

Once the shingles are removed, contractors can install a metal drip edge to protect the eaves. They may also install roof valley flashing, and they might add or replace vents, chimneys, wood stove pipes, and certain vents and along hip roofs.

Installation

During this phase, roofers install the waterproof membrane of the chosen roofing system. They follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a leak-free installation. They also pay close attention to edge details and flashing, ensuring that all seams are sealed tightly and securely. They also install the necessary vents and insulation. Ventilation allows air to circulate in the attic, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to mold growth and structural damage. Insulation minimizes heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, promoting energy efficiency and comfort.

Once the waterproofing is in place, the roofers begin installing the shingles. They start at the eaves and work their way upward. They lay the tab shingles in a staggered pattern and use proper nailing techniques to secure them. They also apply flashing in valleys, around dormers and vents, and along the ridge for a finished look. They may also install ridge vents for increased attic ventilation.

Depending on the scope of your roof installation, your roofing contractor may have to take down a few existing shingles or panels in order to properly access areas where new shingles will be installed. This will be clearly communicated to you ahead of time so that you can prepare accordingly, including removing outdoor furnishings, covering plants with tarps and keeping pets safely indoors (for their own safety as well as yours). Once the work is done, your roofers will clear away any debris and haul it away, making sure to clean up the area before leaving.

Cleanup

Once the roofing crew completes roof installation, they remove debris and dispose of it properly. The cleanup phase is also an excellent opportunity for contractors to inspect the work they’ve done. If there are any damaged or missing pieces, the contractor will address them at this point. They’ll also clean out gutters and downspouts to make sure water can flow away from the home properly, preventing moisture damage to the foundation plantings and lawn. They may also sweep and vacuum the attic floor to clear away debris, dust, and construction materials.

During the cleanup phase, homeowners should protect their valuables by covering items stored in attics or on walls. The vibrations caused by the roofing process might rattle or move these items. They should also cover patio furniture, grills, and potted plants. Finally, they should clean out their driveway and other paved areas to ensure that they’re free of nails or roofing debris that might fall off the new roof during construction. After completing the cleanup, the contractor will perform a final inspection and provide a warranty or guarantee for the job.

Final Inspection

The final inspection phase is an essential step in roof installation, ensuring that the finished product aligns with your specific expectations and specifications. During this comprehensive assessment, roofing professionals check every aspect of the new roofing system, from the integrity of the materials to the precision of the installation. If any issues are uncovered, they can be resolved promptly before the project is considered complete.

During this crucial step, your inspector will verify that the completed construction work complies with building codes and regulations. This ensures the safety of occupants and the general public and averts costly legal troubles down the road. The inspector will also make sure that the construction site is safe for anyone entering or working on the structure.

In addition to checking the integrity of shingles, your inspector will verify proper ventilation and insulation. He will also check that the flashing around chimneys, valleys, and vents is sealed correctly to prevent water infiltration. This part of the inspection can reveal additional problems with the installation that may not be visible from the ground.

Many roofs have penetrations, including drains, air conditioning vents, plumbing stack vents, ductwork, skylights, and HVAC curbs. These openings puncture the surface of the roof, which puts them at a higher risk of leaks and structural damage. During this phase of the inspection, your inspector will examine all of these penetrations to ensure they are properly sealed and framed to protect the interior of your home in Lenawee and Washtenaw County.

Your roofing contractor will also perform a walkthrough of the finished product to check for any final adjustments that need to be made. He will ensure that the gutters, downspouts, and flashing are properly installed to prevent water infiltration, and that any areas requiring additional shingle coverage are appropriately covered. He will also check that the work area is clean and free of debris, nails, and tools.

This thorough evaluation of the entire structure is vital for preventing future problems with your roof. It can identify problems such as standing water and leaks, which can lead to expensive structural damage if not addressed promptly. The process of detecting and resolving these issues can also elevate the resale value of your property.