A roof replacement is a big project, but for most homes it's over faster than people expect. Many standard homes are done in a single day, and larger or more complex roofs usually take two or three. Knowing what happens, and in what order, makes the day a lot less stressful.
Before the Crew Arrives
A few simple steps make the day smoother:
- Move vehicles out of the driveway and garage so the crew has room for the bin and materials.
- Take down wall hangings and fragile items on upper floors. Hammering can shake walls.
- Clear the yard of patio furniture, planters and toys near the house.
- Keep pets and kids inside or away from the work area.
- Let your neighbours know. It will be noisy for a day or two.
Step 1: Setup and Protection
The bin arrives, materials are delivered and the crew sets up ladders and safety equipment. Tarps go over gardens, decks and walls, and plywood may be leaned against windows and AC units to protect them from falling debris.
Step 2: Tear-Off
The old shingles, underlayment and flashing are stripped down to the roof deck and dropped straight into the bin. This is the loudest part of the job. Removing every layer lets us see the condition of the decking underneath.
Step 3: Deck Inspection and Repairs
With the deck exposed, we check for rot, soft spots and loose boards. Damaged plywood is replaced, and any loose sheathing is re-nailed. If extra plywood is needed, we'll show you the damage and use the per-sheet price from your quote, so there are no surprises.
Step 4: Ice and Water Protection
A self-adhered membrane goes along the eaves, into the valleys and around chimneys, skylights and other openings. These are the places where Ontario's ice dams and heavy rain are most likely to push water under shingles.
Step 5: Underlayment and Drip Edge
Synthetic underlayment covers the rest of the deck as a second layer of protection. Metal drip edge goes along the eaves and rakes to direct water into the eavestroughs and protect the deck's edges.
Step 6: Flashing and Shingles
Starter strips are installed first, then the shingles, working from the bottom up. New flashing is installed at walls, chimneys and skylights, and vents are added or replaced to suit your attic. If you have skylights, this is a good time to replace their flashing or the units themselves; see our skylight services.
Step 7: Ridge and Ventilation
Ridge vent or ridge cap shingles finish the peaks. Proper exhaust ventilation at the top, paired with intake at the soffits, helps your new shingles last.
Step 8: Cleanup and Final Walkthrough
The crew clears debris from the roof, eavestroughs and yard, then sweeps the property with a large magnet to pick up nails. Before we leave, we walk the job with you and answer any questions.
What If It Rains?
We watch the forecast closely and only open as much roof as we can close up the same day. If the weather turns, exposed areas are covered with underlayment and tarps until work can continue.
Thinking About a New Roof?
Ontario Tech Roofing has been replacing roofs in Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton and across the GTA since 1998. Learn more about our roof replacement service, book a free estimate or call 905-616-4408.
Booking a roof replacement in Hamilton or Stoney Creek? The process is the same, and we'll walk you through the schedule before the bin arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be home during the roof replacement?
Not necessarily. Many homeowners go to work as usual. We just need access to the property and a way to reach you if we find something that needs a decision, like extra plywood.
Can a roof be replaced in winter?
Yes, but cold temperatures affect how shingles seal, so winter work needs extra care. Late spring to early fall is the ideal window, but urgent replacements happen year-round.
Will my attic get dusty?
A little dust and debris can fall into the attic during tear-off. If you store items up there, cover them with sheets beforehand.