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How does it all come together?
These basic 8 steps give you an idea of what all goes into replacing your roof.
1. Strip the Existing Roof (Tear-Off)
- Start at the ridge and work downward
- Use roofing shovels/forks to lift shingles and nails
- Pull off old flashing, vents, and drip edge
- Clear debris as you go to keep the deck visible
2. Deck Prep & Fastening
- Replace any bad sections quickly as needed
- Re-nail entire deck to ensure solid fastening base
- Make surface flat and ready for layering
3. Install Drip Edge
- Run drip edge along all eaves first
- Nail every 8–10 inches
- Overlap joints ~2 inches for water control
4. Ice & Water Barrier Application
- Apply peel-and-stick membrane along eaves (typically 3–6 ft up)
- Run full protection in valleys
- Seal tight to deck with no wrinkles or gaps
5. Underlayment Installation
- Roll out underlayment horizontally from bottom up
- Overlap each course (4–6 inches typical)
- Fasten consistently to prevent shifting
- Install drip edge on rakes (gable edges) over underlayment
6. Flashing & Penetration Detailing
- Install valley metal or membrane system
- Add step flashing along walls as shingling progresses
- Install pipe boots and seal bases
- Tie all flashing into the underlayment system
7. Shingle Installation (Field Work)
- Install starter strip at eaves and rakes
- Lay first course perfectly straight (sets entire roof)
- Nail shingles in manufacturer pattern (4–6 nails)
- Stagger joints for proper water shedding
- Continue course-by-course up the roof
- Cut and fit around penetrations and edges
8. Ridge System & Final Tie-In
- Install ridge vent (if used)
- Cap ridge with ridge shingles
- Seal exposed fasteners
- Tie in all final edges and transitions cleanly