When it’s time for a new roof, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: How long will the installation take? As asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials in use, most homeowners are specifically concerned about how long it takes for an asphalt shingle replacement.
While every roofing project varies depending on factors like weather conditions, roof size, and complexity, we’ll provide a clear breakdown of what to expect during an asphalt shingle roof installation. This guide will help you plan accordingly, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily routine.
What Does Asphalt Shingle Installation Involve?
A roof replacement is not only an expensive process, it’s also quite complex and intricate.
Pre-Installation Preparation (1 to 2 Days)
Proper preparation is the key to a successful installation. Before the roofer installs the shingles, he will handle several preparatory tasks to ensure that the installation remains smooth and efficient. This is usually done 1 to 2 days prior to the actual installation/replacement. Here are some of the things that the roofer will take care of:
- Ensuring timely delivery of asphalt shingles
- Delivery of other roofing parts such as underlayment, flashing, screws, etc.
- Acquiring the necessary permits and complying with building codes to avoid any legal hiccups in the process
- Safety is a priority, so the team will also set up protective equipment, such as harnesses, guardrails, and tarps, to safeguard workers and your property
These steps typically take a day or two and ensure that the actual installation progresses without unnecessary delays.
Also Read: Do You Need A Permit To Replace Your Roof?
Disposal Of Old Roofing Materials (Roof Tear-Off)
To install new asphalt shingles, it is important to remove the existing layer of shingles first. While some believe that you can install the new shingles over the existing layer, this is usually not the advised method.
If a complete tear-off is needed, this step usually takes our team about a day for an average-sized roof. Our premier roofing crew will begin by removing the old shingles, starting from the top and working downward.
Once the old roofing materials are disposed of, the roof will be thoroughly inspected for hidden issues with the underlying structure, such as a sagging roof deck. If there is roof damage, repairs will be made before the new shingles are installed.
Deck Cleaning and Underlayment (About Half A Day)
Now that the preparation is done and the removal of the existing roof is successfully complete, it is time to get started with the new roof installation. The roof deck is cleaned properly to remove dust and debris and ensure that the underlayment, which acts as a secondary moisture barrier beneath the shingles, adheres properly to the roof.
This underlayment protects your home from leaks and helps improve the longevity of the roofing system. Additionally, the drip edge — metal flashing placed along the edges of the roof — is installed to direct water away from the fascia and prevent damage to the underlying structure.
Installing The New Asphalt Shingles
Now that two important base layers are installed, it’s time for the main roofing material to be installed. This is the most significant phase of the installation process. The team will begin by installing the starter shingles along the edges to provide a solid base for the main layers.
That’s followed by the asphalt roofing shingles, which are carefully arranged in a staggered pattern. This is also called shingle offset, and it ensures both durability and aesthetic appeal. The process continues from the bottom up, with each row overlapping the previous one to create a watertight seal.
Installing Ridge Vent Shingles (And Other Ventilation Needs)
Apart from shingles, there are other components that require special attention. One such component is ventilation. These include ridge vents that enhance airflow and prolong the life of the roof.
Once the ridge vents are installed, they need to be covered with protective ridge cap shingles in order to reinforce the roof’s protection against wind and weather. Depending on the size and complexity of the roof, this phase of roof installation can take anywhere from one to two days to complete.
Cleanup and Final Inspection (Half a Day)
Once the installation is complete, our roofers will conduct a thorough cleanup to remove any remaining debris, nails, and scraps from the worksite. Magnetic sweepers are commonly used to pick up stray nails from the yard and driveway, ensuring the area is safe for residents and pets. A final inspection is then performed to confirm that the roof has been installed in a way that it meets the highest standards in the roofing industry.
We will review the completed work with you, addressing any questions or concerns you may have. If your roofing project includes a warranty or maintenance guidelines, the contractor will provide that information as well. This last step, typically taking half a day, ensures that your new asphalt shingle roof is in excellent condition and ready to protect your home for years to come.
Total Estimated Timeframe For Asphalt Shingle Roof Installation
If you have a standard-sized home (about 1,500 square feet), an asphalt shingle installation typically takes 1 to 3 days. As you can see above, this involves a day required for the preparation and removal of old roofing materials and a day for installing asphalt shingles. The last day will involve final touches and cleanup.
More complex roofs or unforeseen repairs could extend the timeline from a few days to a few weeks.
Factors That Influence The Installation Time Of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingle installation is one of the fastest methods of roofing when we compare it to other materials. However, the exact length of time can differ for each home. Here are some key factors that can influence how long your asphalt shingle roof installation will take:
Roof Size and Complexity
A standard single-family home with a roof size of around 1,500 to 2,500 square feet can typically have its asphalt shingles installed in one to three days. However, if your home has multiple levels, a steep pitch, or unique architectural features such as skylights, installation may take longer.
Weather Conditions
Weather plays a major role in roof installation. Ideal conditions for any roofing project are dry and mild, but if you’re handling heavy rain or extreme heat, the process may be delayed to ensure the safety of contractors and the material.
Tear-Off vs. Overlay
If your existing roof is in good enough condition, an overlay (installing new shingles over old ones) might be an option. This can reduce installation time significantly, but a full tear-off is the more common and recommended method.
How to Prepare for Your Roof Installation
To help ensure a smooth process, here are a few tips that will surely help you start on the right track:
- Clear your driveway before the roofers arrive to install asphalt shingles since the roofing crew will need space for materials and equipment
- Move patio furniture, potted plants, and vehicles away from the work area
- Vibrations from hammering can sometimes affect wall decor or fragile items inside the home, so it is important to secure them in place
- Make sure to inform your neighbors before the project begins, as roof installations can be very noisy
Trust Wisconsin’s Premier Roofing Experts For A Hassle-Free Installation
A new asphalt shingle roof is a significant investment in your home’s protection and curb appeal. Now, with a good idea of what to expect in terms of the timeframe for roof installation or replacement, you can know what to expect and make the necessary arrangements.
At A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing, we take pride in providing professional, efficient, and high-quality roof installations. Whether you need a full roof replacement, or just have questions about the process, we’re here to help.
Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to learn more.
