The Complete Roof Replacement Process: 10 Steps to a Perfect Roof

Understanding the Roof Replacement Process

A roof replacement is one of the most significant investments you'll make in your home. At All-Phase Construction USA, we believe homeowners deserve complete transparency about what happens during this process. This guide walks you through our proven 10-step approach to roof replacement, ensuring you know exactly what to expect from day one through final completion.

Whether you're replacing an aging shingle roof, upgrading to metal, installing hurricane-rated tile, or replacing a flat roof system, our process ensures quality, compliance, and lasting protection for your South Florida home.

Step 1: Free Professional Roof Assessment

Every successful roof replacement begins with a thorough inspection. Unlike a quick visual check from the ground, a professional assessment examines every aspect of your roof system to determine exactly what needs to be done.

What Our Assessment Includes

Complete Roof Surface Inspection: We examine the condition of your current roof covering—whether shingles, tiles, metal, or flat roof membrane. We look for damage, wear patterns, and areas of concern that need to be addressed during replacement.

Structural Evaluation: Our dual-licensed team (both General Contractor CGC-1526236 and Roofing Contractor CCC-1331464) evaluates your roof deck, trusses, and structural components. We identify any areas that need reinforcement or repair to support your new roof system.

Underlayment and Ventilation: We assess the current underlayment, ventilation, and drainage systems to determine what improvements should be made during replacement.

Code Compliance Review: We review your current roof against modern Florida Building Code requirements, identifying opportunities to improve wind resistance, energy efficiency, and insurance eligibility.

Detailed Photo Documentation: We document the current condition with photographs and notes, providing you with a clear record of why replacement is recommended and what needs to be addressed.

This assessment is always free, with no obligation. We provide an honest evaluation and answer all your questions about the condition of your roof and your options for replacement.

Step 2: Accurate Measurements & Detailed Estimate

Once we understand your roof's condition, we take precise measurements to develop an accurate estimate. There's nothing worse than discovering hidden costs during a project, so we ensure our pricing is comprehensive and transparent from the start.

Our Measurement Process

Roof Surface Area: We measure the exact square footage of your roof, accounting for slopes, valleys, dormers, and architectural features. Many contractors estimate from photos or property records—we measure to ensure accuracy.

Complexity Factors: We assess factors that affect installation: roof pitch, number of stories, accessibility, waste factor for cuts and overlaps, and the complexity of flashing details around chimneys, vents, and valleys.

Material Quantities: We calculate precise quantities for all materials: roof covering, underlayment, drip edge, valley metal, ridge caps, fasteners, and sealants. Our estimates include everything needed for a complete installation.

Transparent Pricing

Your estimate breaks down costs clearly:

• Materials: All roof covering, underlayment, flashings, and accessories
• Labor: Tear-off, installation, and cleanup
• Permits: All required building permits
• Disposal: Removal and responsible disposal of old roofing materials
• Protection: Tarps, ground protection, and property protection measures
• Warranty: Manufacturer and workmanship warranties

We explain every line item, answer questions about pricing, and provide options at different price points if you're considering multiple material types.

Step 3: Material Selection & Expert Guidance

Choosing the right roofing material for your South Florida home is crucial. We help you navigate the options, considering your budget, architectural style, durability requirements, and performance goals.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, traditional architectural styles, straightforward replacements

Options: Architectural (dimensional) shingles or 3-tab shingles in various colors and grades. We install GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning shingles with manufacturer certifications.

Lifespan: 15-25 years in South Florida

Benefits: Affordable, fast installation, wide color selection, proven performance

Tile Roofing (Concrete or Clay)

Best For: Mediterranean, Spanish, or contemporary homes; homeowners seeking maximum durability and premium aesthetics

Options: Concrete tiles or clay tiles in flat, low-profile, or high-profile styles with numerous color options

Lifespan: 50+ years for concrete, 75-100+ years for clay

Benefits: Exceptional durability, fire resistance, energy efficiency, premium curb appeal, higher home value

Metal Roofing

Best For: Homeowners prioritizing longevity, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics; excellent for low-slope applications

Options: Standing seam metal, exposed fastener panels, or metal tiles/shingles in steel, aluminum, or coated options

Lifespan: 40-70+ years

Benefits: Longest lifespan, excellent wind resistance (up to 140+ mph), energy savings, environmentally friendly, low maintenance

Flat Roofing Systems (TPO/PVC)

Best For: Low-slope or flat roofs on commercial properties or flat-roof residential sections

Options: TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), or modified bitumen systems

Lifespan: 20-30 years

Benefits: Cost-effective for flat applications, energy-efficient white membranes, proven waterproofing

We Help You Choose

We provide samples, discuss pros and cons of each material for your specific situation, and help you make an informed decision based on your priorities—whether that's budget, longevity, aesthetics, energy efficiency, or insurance requirements.

Step 4: Permitting & HOA Approvals

All roof replacements in Broward and Palm Beach Counties require building permits. Many homeowners also need approval from their Homeowners Association. We handle this entire process for you.

Building Permits

Why Permits Matter: Building permits ensure your new roof meets Florida Building Code requirements for wind resistance, proper installation, and structural adequacy. Permitted work is inspected by local building officials, protecting your investment and ensuring insurance coverage.

What We Handle:

• Complete permit applications with engineering calculations
• Submission of plans and specifications to building departments
• Payment of permit fees (included in your project cost)
• Coordination of required inspections
• Obtaining final approval and permit closure

Timeline: Permit approval typically takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the municipality and current backlog.

HOA Approvals

If you live in a community with a Homeowners Association, we assist with:

• Completing HOA architectural review applications
• Providing material samples, color specifications, and project details
• Attending HOA review meetings if required
• Making any necessary adjustments to meet HOA guidelines

Pro Tip: Some HOAs have strict color or material requirements. We help ensure your selection gets approved the first time, avoiding delays.

Step 5: Project Preparation & Property Protection

Before we remove a single shingle, we take extensive measures to protect your property and prepare for efficient installation.

Site Preparation

Ground Protection: We place tarps and plywood around your home's perimeter to catch falling debris and protect landscaping, AC units, and hardscaping.

Driveway Protection: Dumpsters and material deliveries are positioned to minimize impact on your driveway. We use protective boards under heavy equipment if needed.

Vehicle and Outdoor Items: We ask you to move vehicles from the driveway and garage. We recommend relocating outdoor furniture, grills, and decorative items from around your home's perimeter.

Interior Preparation: We advise removing or securing wall hangings, especially near the roof line, as vibration from roof work can cause items to shift. If you have attic storage, we recommend covering items with tarps or plastic sheeting.

Material Delivery

We schedule delivery of all materials to arrive shortly before installation begins. This includes:

• Roof covering materials
• Underlayment and ice & water shield
• Drip edge, valley metal, and flashings
• Ridge caps and accessories
• Fasteners, adhesives, and sealants

Materials are placed on your roof in stages or stored on pallets in your driveway, depending on your roof type and project specifics.

Safety Setup

We establish safety protocols including:

• Ladder stabilization and safety equipment
• Job site signage warning pedestrians and visitors
• Daily job site cleanup to prevent injuries from debris
• OSHA-compliant fall protection for our crew

Step 6: Complete Tear-Off & Debris Removal

On the first day of installation, our crew arrives early to begin the tear-off process. This is often the noisiest and most disruptive phase, but it's completed as quickly as possible.

Tear-Off Process

Systematic Removal: We remove your old roof systematically, working in sections to minimize exposure to weather. Old shingles, tiles, or metal are removed, along with old underlayment and deteriorated flashings.

Down to the Deck: We strip everything down to the roof decking (plywood or OSB sheathing). This allows us to inspect the structural substrate and address any issues before installing the new roof.

Debris Management: Materials are deposited into a dumpster positioned near your home. Our crew works carefully to avoid damage to your property during this process.

Disposal & Recycling

Responsible Disposal: We transport old roofing materials to approved disposal facilities. When possible, we recycle materials like metal roofing to minimize environmental impact.

Shingle Recycling: Some asphalt shingles can be recycled into road base materials. We work with facilities that accept recyclable roofing materials when available.

Dumpsters are removed promptly after the project is complete.

Step 7: Deck Inspection & Repairs

With the old roof removed, we conduct a comprehensive inspection of your roof deck—the structural foundation for your new roof.

What We Inspect

Decking Condition: We examine every sheet of plywood or OSB for rot, water damage, delamination, or softness. We check for proper fastening and adequate support from trusses or rafters.

Structural Integrity: We ensure trusses, rafters, and support beams are sound and properly spaced. We look for signs of previous water intrusion, insect damage, or structural settling.

Ventilation Components: We verify soffit vents and ridge vents are properly cut and positioned. Poor ventilation causes premature roof failure, so we address any ventilation deficiencies discovered during inspection.

Common Repairs

If we discover decking issues, we replace damaged sections immediately:

Partial Deck Replacement: Localized damaged areas are cut out and replaced with new 1/2" or 5/8" CDX plywood that meets Florida Building Code specifications.

Full Deck Replacement: In rare cases where the entire deck is compromised, we remove and replace all decking. This is uncommon but necessary if previous water intrusion has been extensive.

Reinforcement: If trusses or rafters are spaced too wide (over 24" on center), we add blocking or additional support to meet code requirements for your chosen roof covering.

Transparent Pricing: Any deck repairs needed are discussed with you before proceeding. We provide pricing for additional work and obtain your approval. Most roof replacements require minimal to no deck repairs if the previous roof was maintained reasonably well.

Step 8: Professional Installation—The Heart of the Process

With a clean, solid deck, we begin installing your new roof system. This is where our expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to Florida Building Code compliance come together.

Underlayment Installation

Ice & Water Shield: We install self-adhering ice & water shield in vulnerable areas: eaves, valleys, around chimneys, skylights, and other penetrations. This provides a waterproof barrier where leaks are most likely.

Synthetic Underlayment: We cover the entire roof deck with high-performance synthetic underlayment (or felt paper, depending on your material choice). This is your roof's second line of defense against water intrusion.

Proper Overlap: All underlayment is installed with proper overlaps (typically 4-6 inches) and fastened according to manufacturer specifications and building code requirements.

Drip Edge & Flashing

Drip Edge Installation: We install metal drip edge along all eaves and rakes to direct water away from fascia boards and into gutters. Drip edge is required by Florida Building Code and critical for roof longevity.

Valley Metal: Open valleys receive metal valley flashing. Closed valleys are properly woven or cut with appropriate underlayment protection.

Flashing Details: We install or replace flashing around:

• Chimneys (step flashing and counter flashing)
• Skylights (with proper sealing and waterproofing)
• Plumbing vents (with boot-style or metal vent flashings)
• Wall transitions (step flashing where roofs meet vertical walls)
• Roof penetrations (HVAC equipment, exhaust vents, etc.)

Roof Covering Installation

The installation method varies by material, but our commitment to quality and code compliance is consistent:

Shingle Installation: Shingles are installed starting at the eaves, working upward in properly aligned rows. We use the correct number and type of fasteners (typically 6 nails per shingle in high-wind areas), positioned in the manufacturer's specified nailing zone. Shingles are sealed with adhesive strips that bond when heated by the sun.

Tile Installation: Concrete or clay tiles are secured with approved fasteners and foam closures. In high-wind zones (most of South Florida), tiles receive supplemental foam adhesive attachment. We ensure proper water channeling between tiles and adequate ventilation under the tile system.

Metal Installation: Standing seam metal panels are installed with concealed fasteners, allowing thermal expansion and contraction. Exposed fastener panels are fastened through raised ribs, not flat surfaces, to prevent water intrusion. All seams are properly lapped and sealed.

Flat Roof Installation: TPO or PVC membranes are mechanically fastened or fully adhered to the deck. Seams are heat-welded to create watertight bonds. All penetrations receive proper flashing and sealing.

Ridge Cap & Final Details

Ridge Cap Installation: Ridge caps are installed at all peaks and hips to seal the ridge line and provide proper ventilation. We use ridge vent systems where appropriate to maximize attic ventilation.

Quality Checks: Throughout installation, our crew leader performs ongoing quality checks: fastener placement, sealing, alignment, and proper overlap. We ensure every detail meets manufacturer specifications.

Step 9: Comprehensive Quality Inspection

Before we call any roof complete, we conduct multiple inspections to ensure quality and code compliance.

Our Multi-Point Inspection

Installation Quality: We verify proper fastener placement, sealant application, and alignment throughout the roof. We check that all manufacturer specifications have been followed.

Flashing & Waterproofing: We inspect all flashing details, valleys, and penetrations to ensure watertight installation. We check caulking and sealants for complete coverage.

Drainage: We verify proper water flow toward gutters and away from valleys and vulnerable areas.

Cleanliness: We walk the entire roof to remove debris, dropped fasteners, packaging materials, and any excess sealant or adhesive.

Building Inspector Visit

Your local building department schedules an inspection to verify code compliance. We coordinate this inspection and are present to answer any questions. The inspector verifies:

• Proper installation methods and materials
• Adequate fastening and wind resistance
• Correct flashing details
• Code-compliant ventilation
• Match to approved permit plans

Once the inspector approves the installation, your permit is closed and your roof is officially code-compliant.

Final Cleanup

Magnetic Sweep: We perform multiple passes with a magnetic roller around your home's perimeter to pick up dropped nails and fasteners. This prevents flat tires and injuries.

Debris Removal: We remove tarps, staging materials, and any remaining debris. We inspect your property to ensure no materials have been left behind.

Gutter Cleaning: We clean gutters of any debris from the tear-off and installation process.

Step 10: Final Walkthrough & Warranty Activation

The final step is a thorough walkthrough with you to review the completed project, answer questions, and activate your warranties.

Homeowner Walkthrough

We walk your property with you, pointing out:

• All new materials and how they were installed
• Critical flashing details and waterproofing measures
• Ventilation improvements or additions
• Care and maintenance recommendations for your specific roof type

We answer any questions you have and address any concerns immediately.

Documentation Package

You receive a complete documentation package including:

• Final invoice and payment receipt
• Building permit and final inspection approval
• Manufacturer warranty documentation
• All-Phase Construction USA workmanship warranty
• Material specifications and product information
• Maintenance guidelines for your roof type
• Photos of installation details (available upon request)

Warranty Activation

Manufacturer Warranty: We register your roof with the manufacturer, activating material warranties that range from 25 years to lifetime, depending on the product chosen.

Workmanship Warranty: All-Phase Construction USA provides a comprehensive workmanship warranty on all labor and installation. We stand behind our work and will address any installation-related issues promptly.

Insurance Documentation: We provide documentation you can submit to your insurance company for potential discounts on homeowners insurance. A new roof—especially one built to modern wind resistance standards—often qualifies for meaningful premium reductions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Replacement

How long does a roof replacement take?

Typical residential roof replacements take 2-5 days for installation, once permits are approved. Simple shingle roofs on straightforward homes can be completed in 1-2 days, while complex tile or metal roofs may take 5-7 days. Permitting typically adds 2-4 weeks to the timeline before installation can begin.

What if it rains during my roof replacement?

We monitor weather closely and avoid starting projects when rain is likely. If unexpected rain occurs during installation, we immediately cover exposed areas with tarps. Modern synthetic underlayment is also highly water-resistant, providing protection even if not all roof covering has been installed.

Will I need to leave my home during roof replacement?

No, most homeowners remain in their homes during roof replacement. You'll hear noise during tear-off and installation (similar to loud hammering), but you can still work from home, though you may want to schedule important calls away from peak work hours.

How much does roof replacement cost?

Roof replacement costs vary based on material, roof size, complexity, and current condition. As a general range:

• Asphalt shingle roofs: $9,000-$18,000 for typical homes
• Tile roofs: $20,000-$42,000
• Metal roofs: $14,000-$46,000
• Flat roofs: $8,000-$20,000

Contact us for a free inspection and accurate estimate for your specific roof.

Do you offer financing?

Yes! All-Phase Construction USA offers flexible financing through Service Finance Company, LLC, an approved FHA Title I Lender. We provide options that let you invest in a quality roof replacement and pay over time.

Will a new roof lower my insurance premiums?

Often, yes. Many Florida insurance companies offer discounts for new roofs, especially those installed to modern wind resistance standards. We provide documentation you can submit to your insurance company to request premium reductions.

What's the best roofing material for South Florida?

It depends on your priorities:

• Best for longevity: Metal or tile roofing (40-100+ year lifespan)
• Best for budget: Asphalt shingles (15-25 years, most affordable)
• Best for wind resistance: Metal or properly-installed tile
• Best for energy efficiency: Metal with reflective coatings or light-colored tile

We help you choose based on your specific needs, budget, and home style.

This comprehensive guide was written by the roofing experts at All-Phase Construction USA, a dual-licensed contractor serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties since 2005. For personalized guidance on your roof replacement project, contact us for a free inspection and consultation.