A new roof is one of the biggest projects a homeowner takes on. Done well, it protects the home for decades. Knowing when replacement makes sense, what the job involves and what to ask for in the quote makes the whole process easier.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent roofing provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
Signs it may be time for a new roof
One sign alone does not always mean replacement. Several together usually do.
- The roof is near or past its expected life
- Leaks in more than one place, or leaks that keep coming back
- Widespread curling, cracking or missing shingles
- Bald spots where shingle granules have worn away
- Sagging areas or soft spots in the roof
- Serious storm or hail damage across much of the roof
What to do right now
If the roof is leaking now, deal with the leak first. A tarp keeps rain out while you get quotes for replacement.
- Take photos of the roof and any damage inside
- Find out how old the roof is, if you can
- Check whether the damage came from a storm, for insurance
- Get more than one written quote
- Ask each roofer about permits and warranties
- Plan for noise and parking during the work
Choosing roofing material
Asphalt shingles
The most common choice. Affordable, many colors, and often lasts around 20 to 30 years.
Metal
Lighter and long lasting, with good resistance to wind and fire. Costs more to install.
Tile
Clay and concrete tiles last a long time and suit warm climates, but they are heavy and need a strong roof frame.
Flat roof membranes
TPO, EPDM and similar membranes are used on low slope roofs and need good drainage.
What a roof replacement involves
- The roofer inspects the roof, measures it and gives a written quote.
- A permit is pulled if your area requires one.
- The old roofing is torn off and the roof boards are checked, with damaged boards replaced.
- Underlayment, flashing, vents and the new roofing material are installed.
- The site is cleaned up, including loose nails, and any required inspection is done.
Things to agree before work starts
- A written quote listing materials, brand and color
- Whether the old roof will be torn off or covered
- How damaged roof boards will be priced
- Who pulls the permit
- The manufacturer warranty and the roofer’s own workmanship warranty
- How nails and debris will be cleaned up
Questions to ask before you hire
- Are you licensed and insured? Ask for proof.
- Will you tear off the old roof or put the new one over it?
- How will you price any damaged roof boards you find?
- What warranty do you give, and what does the manufacturer cover?
- Do you pull the permit, and is it in the price?
Frequently asked questions
How long does a roof replacement take?
Many homes are finished in one to three days, depending on the size of the roof, the material and the weather.
Can I stay home during the work?
Usually, yes, though it is noisy. Move cars and outdoor items away from the house and keep pets inside.
Should the old roof be removed?
Tearing off the old roof lets the roofer inspect and repair the roof boards. Building codes usually limit roofs to two layers of shingles.
Will insurance pay for a new roof?
If a covered storm damaged the roof, insurance may pay for some or all of the replacement. Roofs that are simply old usually are not covered.
Learn more
Our main roofing guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Sifixit is a free referral service and does not provide home services. Calls may be answered by a partner call center or connected directly to independent local providers, who are solely responsible for their work, pricing, licensing and insurance.