A roof replacement is one of the biggest home improvement projects you’ll ever face. Whether your roof was damaged by storms, reached the end of its lifespan, or shows visible signs of wear, understanding the step-by-step roof replacement process is crucial. At BHC Construct, Texas, we help homeowners make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure long-lasting protection for their homes.
This complete guide walks you through every stage — from inspection and material selection to installation, cleanup, and warranty registration. Written in an easy, human tone, it explains the entire roofing process clearly and accurately.
What Is Roof Replacement?
A roof replacement involves removing your old roofing materials down to the roof deck and installing an entirely new roofing system. This includes shingles, underlayment, flashing, ventilation components, and ridge caps.
Re-Roofing vs Full Roof Replacement
Many Texas homeowners ask whether they need a full replacement or simply a re-roof.
Re-roofing (Overlay)
- New shingles installed over old shingles
- Cheaper but not always recommended
- Shorter lifespan
- Not suitable for old, damaged, or multi-layer roofs
Full Roof Replacement
- Old shingles, nails, and underlayment removed
- Exposes the roof deck for inspection
- Allows full waterproofing
- Longest lifespan
- Best for storm-damaged roofs (common in Texas)
For homes in Texas, where heat, hail, and storms are common, full roof replacement is usually the best long-term solution.
When Is Roof Replacement Necessary?
Roofing issues often show subtle warning signs:
- Missing, curling, or cracked shingles
- Granule loss exposing the fiberglass shingle layer
- Active leaks or attic moisture
- Sagging roof deck
- Hail bruising
- Wind uplift around edges
- Mold or rot
- Roof age over 20–25 years
If you see any of these signs, schedule an inspection with BHC Construct Texas immediately.
Step-by-Step Roof Replacement Process (Complete Breakdown)
Below is the full 12-step roof replacement process used by professional Texas roofing contractors.
Step 1 — Initial Roof Inspection & Assessment
Every roof replacement begins with a detailed inspection. A professional roofing contractor uses tools like moisture meters, drones, and attic evaluations to identify:
- Leaks
- Nail pops
- Underlayment deterioration
- Damaged flashing
- Rotten decking
- Moisture intrusion
- Storm-related impact damage
Our team at BHC Construct Texas performs both interior and exterior inspections to guarantee accuracy.
Step 2 — Written Estimate & Roofing Contract
Once the inspection is complete, homeowners receive a comprehensive written roofing estimate that includes:
- Cost of materials
- Labor breakdown
- Tear-off details
- Roof measurement (squares)
- Ventilation upgrades
- Flashing replacement
- Cleanup and haul-away
- Warranty information
- Project timeline
A clear contract protects both the homeowner and the contractor.
Step 3 — Choosing Roofing Materials
Texas weather requires durable and heat-resistant roofing systems. You can choose from:
Asphalt Shingles
- Affordable
- Available in 3-tab or architectural styles
- Wind and fire resistant
Metal Roofing
- Long-lasting
- Great for Texas heat
- Energy efficient
Tile or Slate
- Premium durability
- Heavyweight (requires structural confirmation)
Key Components Selected During This Stage
- Synthetic underlayment
- Ice & water shield (especially in valleys)
- Ridge vents
- Soffit vents
- Drip edge
- Flashing materials
BHC Construct Texas helps homeowners pick materials based on budget, style, and performance.
Step 4 — Preparing the Home & Job Site
Before installation begins, the crew prepares the area:
- Covers landscaping
- Moves outdoor furniture
- Protects windows and walls
- Sets up tarps and plywood sheets
- Delivers roofing materials
- Positions the dumpster
- Installs fall-protection systems (OSHA compliant)
Preparation ensures safety and prevents accidental property damage.
Step 5 — Tear-Off of Old Roofing Materials
The tear-off phase removes:
- Old shingles
- Underlayment
- Nails
- Flashing
- Damaged components
Crews use specialized tear-off shovels, pry bars, and debris chutes to remove everything efficiently. Texas homes that experienced hail or storm damage often require full tear-off to reveal hidden structural problems.
Step 6 — Roof Deck Inspection & Repairs
Once the roof deck is exposed, contractors check for:
- Mold
- Soft spots
- Wet or rotted plywood
- Improper fastening
- Structural weaknesses
Any compromised decking is replaced immediately to ensure the new roof bonds correctly.
Step 7 — Installing Drip Edge & Underlayment
This phase is critical for waterproofing.
Drip Edge Installation
- Installed along eaves and rakes
- Prevents water from entering fascia board
- Often required by building code
Underlayment Installation
- Synthetic underlayment for maximum durability
- Ice & water shield in valleys, edges, and vulnerable areas
- Proper overlaps and nail patterns
Underlayment acts as a secondary waterproof barrier beneath shingles.
Step 8 — Installing New Roofing Material
This is the core part of the roof replacement process.
For Asphalt Shingles:
- Install starter shingles
- Lay shingle rows (courses)
- Follow nailing patterns for wind rating compliance
- Ensure straight alignment
- Seal shingles in Texas heat for strong adhesion
For Metal Roofing:
- Install panels
- Secure clips
- Seal seams
- Install foam closures
- Attach ridge caps
Proper installation ensures manufacturer warranty validity.
Step 9 — Flashing Installation & Waterproofing
Flashing is installed around:
- Chimneys
- Skylights
- Vent pipes
- Sidewalls
- Valleys
Types of flashing used include:
- Step flashing
- Counter flashing
- Rubber pipe boots
- Aluminum or steel valley metal
Correct flashing installation prevents leaks — one of the most common Texas roofing issues after storms.
Step 10 — Installing Ridge Caps & Ventilation Components
Roof ventilation is critical in Texas, where attic heat can exceed 140°F.
Ventilation Options:
- Ridge vents
- Box vents
- Turbine vents
- Soffit vents
- Gable vents
After vents are installed, ridge cap shingles finish the roof peak for protection and aesthetics.
Step 11 — Cleanup, Gutter Care & Final Inspection
When installation is complete, the crew:
- Performs magnetic nail sweeping
- Removes debris and waste
- Cleans gutters
- Conducts a final walkthrough
- Ensures everything is sealed and watertight
A final inspection ensures the roof meets quality standards.
Step 12 — Warranty Registration & Maintenance Tips
A professional roofing contractor will register your manufacturer warranty and provide homeowners with:
- Material warranty
- Workmanship warranty
- Maintenance schedule
- Annual inspection recommendations
At BHC Construct Texas, we offer guidance to help homeowners extend their roof’s lifespan.
How Long Does a Roof Replacement Take?
The average timeline is:
- 1–2 days for asphalt shingles
- 2–4 days for metal roofing
- 5–7 days for tile/slate roofing
Weather, roof size, and materials can extend the schedule.
Roof Replacement Costs in Texas
Prices vary depending on materials, size, tear-off difficulty, and local labor rates.
General Averages:
- Asphalt shingles: $6,000–$15,000+
- Metal roofing: $12,000–$30,000+
- Tile and slate: $20,000–$50,000+
A detailed estimate from BHC Construct Texas ensures accurate budgeting.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Avoid these issues:
- Choosing the cheapest contractor
- Ignoring ventilation upgrades
- Not replacing flashing
- Overlooking attic insulation
- Not reviewing warranty details
- Allowing unlicensed contractors to work
Roofing is not the place to cut corners — poor installation leads to costly future problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare my home for roof replacement?
Move vehicles, cover belongings in the attic, and secure fragile items.
Should I stay home during roof replacement?
You can, but it will be noisy. Pets and kids may need to stay elsewhere.
What is included in a roofing estimate?
Materials, labor, tear-off, ventilation, flashing, cleanup, and warranty details.
How long should a new roof last?
20–50 years depending on material type and weather conditions.
Conclusion
A roof replacement is a major investment, but understanding the full step-by-step roof replacement process makes it easier to plan confidently. From initial inspection to installation and final inspection, every step matters.
If you’re a Texas homeowner needing a roof replacement, BHC Construct Texas offers:
- Expert craftsmanship
- High-quality materials
- Honest estimates
- Licensed and insured crews
- Local Texas experience
Your roof protects your home, family, and future — make sure it’s built to last.