What Happens During a Full Roof Replacement

A complete roof replacement on an average NJ home typically takes two to three days. If you've never been through one, here is what actually happens on site so you can plan logistics, parking, and pets accordingly.

Before Day One

Materials arrive on a delivery truck usually the day before the crew. Bundles of shingles get set on the roof itself in most cases so they don't have to be carried up. The dumpster arrives either the night before or first thing on tear-off morning and gets placed on the driveway with plywood protection underneath.

Day One: Tear-Off

Crews arrive early, typically 7 to 7:30. Tarps go up around the perimeter to catch debris. Shingles, underlayment, and all old roofing material come off down to the decking. The dumpster fills fast. This is the loudest day by far.

By midday the crew will have the decking exposed and can inspect for rot. Any bad decking gets replaced now. Ice & water shield goes on the eaves, valleys, and around penetrations, followed by synthetic underlayment across the full field.

By end of day, at least one slope is usually shingled and the roof is fully dried in, meaning it's weather-tight even if no shingles were started.

Day Two: Shingling

The bulk of shingle installation happens on day two. Valleys get closed, field shingles go down in a proper stagger, and ridge caps finish the top. Flashing work at the chimney and skylights happens alongside.

Day Three: Cleanup and Finishing

For roofs that need a third day, it's usually detail work like final flashing, trim, ridge vent installation, and a full cleanup. Crews walk the property with magnetic sweepers to pick up any nails. Gutters get cleaned if they were fouled during install.

What You Should Expect as a Homeowner

You do not need to leave the house. You should keep pets inside and move cars out of the driveway by 7 AM each day. Expect vibration and some dust indoors, especially if the attic is open to the living space. Count on a cleaner property when the crew leaves than when they arrived.

After the Job

A final inspection with the project manager goes through every slope, every flashing detail, and the documentation for your warranty. Photos of the decking, underlayment, and flashing work should be part of your paperwork.