In New Jersey, strong thunderstorms, heavy snowstorms, and severe low-pressure systems often challenge residential roofs. Using high-quality materials and skilled installation is crucial in a state where temperatures can swing from a scorching high of 110 degrees to a bone-chilling low of minus 34 degrees. Replacing your roof is a big investment that boosts your home’s value, comfort, and safety. Knowing when to get a new roof is crucial because it helps prevent structural damage and costly issues.

Here’s a simple guide to help homeowners in New Jersey understand how to replace their roof step by step. This will make sure they’re ready for this important project.

Step 1: Removing the Old Roof

The initial step in installing a new roof is taking off the old one. Asphalt roofing is removed using a tool called a shingle fork. Starting from the roof’s top and moving downwards, the shingle fork is employed to tear off the old shingles. If you have another type of roofing, the process looks a little different.

Step 2: Inspecting the Roof Decking

After removing the old roof, the contractor will inspect the entire roof deck. This part of your roof serves as a base and provides structural support for the shingles and other roofing materials. They will be checking for:

• Damage to the sheathing
• Moist areas
• Mildew and rot

In essence, the contractor will assess whether any areas require significant repairs before installing the new roof and whether you need new decking.

Step 3: Examining the Flashing

Once the old roofing material is removed, the contractor should check the flashing to see if it needs replacement. If it’s still in good condition, it can remain in place. However, if it’s worn out, new flashing will be installed in specific areas to stop water from getting in:

• Around the chimney
• In the valleys
• Near vents

Every joint in your roof should have flashing to stop water from seeping through. Additionally, if you have other roof penetrations such as skylights or dormers, flashing should be installed around those as well.

Step 4: Installing the Drip Edge

Installing a drip edge is crucial to direct water away from your home and into the gutter. Depending on its placement on your roof, it may be installed before or after other components.

If the drip edge is located at the lower part of your roof, it’s installed before the underlayment. Conversely, if it’s on the side of your roof, installation happens after the underlayment is in place.

Step 5: Laying Down Underlayment

Underlayment is crucial for the strength of your roof system. It’s a felt paper that shields the framing and sheathing from water and rot by repelling water. The process of installing underlayment involves several components.

Step 6: Choosing and installing the New Roofing Material

Choosing the correct roofing materials is essential for your roof’s durability and performance. New Jersey roofers can offer advice on the best options for the local climate, such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or eco-friendly choices. This decision will greatly affect your roof’s longevity, appearance, and energy efficiency.

No matter what type of shingle roof you’re installing, the roofers will start from the bottom and work their way up. If you choose asphalt shingles, you’ll notice they are nailed through the tar strip. This method ensures that once all the shingles are installed, no nails will be visible.

Step 7: Debris Collection

A trustworthy roofing company should ensure thorough cleanup after completing the job. This includes disposing of all old roofing materials in a dumpster and making sure to collect any stray nails and debris that may have fallen on your grass and landscaping.

Step 8: Final Inspection

After the installation, the leader of the roofing team should conduct a final inspection of the roof to ensure everything is installed correctly. The contractor should also verify that none of the materials are defective and provide you with photos of your new roof for your records.