When your roof is about to be replaced, you might wonder exactly what’s involved in the process. While every roof is different, and some have more extensive damage than others, a traditional shingle roof replacement in Boise and the surrounding areas usually follows the same steps.

Allow Idaho Roofing Contractors to explain what you can expect when getting a new roof installed.

Tear Off of the Roof Shingles

Before a replacement roof can be installed, the existing one must be removed. Also known as roof tear-offs, this process involves pulling off the old asphalt shingles and underlayment. Roofers typically haul this debris away to the local landfill or recycling facility so homeowners don’t have to deal with it.

After the shingles are removed, the roofers go over the surface again, carefully removing any underlayment that's been missed and also pulling up the roofing nails. The goal is to have a smooth, clean roof deck that’s ready to receive the new roof.

Repair of the Decking

At this point, the Boise area roofing contractors assess the condition of the deck. This is the base layer of the roof that the shingles rest on. Made from plywood sheets or OSB board, the decking is attached to your rafters.

Soft or rotted wood decking won’t be able to properly support the roof shingles. It can also lead to further decay over time. So, any visible damage is cut out and replaced with fresh plywood.

Other spots that may need minor repairs include:

  • Exhaust Pipes
  • Fireplace Chimneys
  • Skylights

Application of New Roof

You’ll be amazed at how quickly the tear-off and repair part of the process goes when installing a new roof. Before you know it, the roofers will be ready to install the new shingles.

A new underlayment is applied to the decking before the shingles. There are two main kinds of underlayment: felt and synthetic materials. Usually, roofers in the Upper Midwest will take the precaution of installing the more durable, water-repellent synthetic underlayment on the roof. This added moisture barrier is rolled out over the entirety of the deck to provide full coverage.

Your roofer will also install an ice and water barrier made of polymer over more vulnerable areas of the home, such as the:

  • Roof Edge
  • Valleys
  • Cracks Around Roof Penetrations

Once the barriers are in place, your roofers install the shingles. These are usually applied starting at the roof’s edge and working up in rows to the peak of the roof. The top of the roof is covered with a row of protective roof-cap shingles to bring both sides of the roof together.

Learn More About Getting a Roof Replacement in Boise & Surrounding Areas

A professionally installed asphalt shingle roof can last homeowners for up to 25 years before needing replacement. If you are thinking about a new roof in Boise and the surrounding areas, reach out to Idaho Roofing Contractors today. We can help put together a free cost estimate for a roof that fits your budget.

Our team can take care of all of your roofing related needs in the areas of:

  • Residential Roofing
  • Commercial Roofing
  • Storm Damage
  • New Construction

Give us a call to set up a free roof inspection right away. Or fill out our online form to ask about more information on our roofing services.