The Basics of Shingle Roof Replacement in Albuquerque

Our roofs are one of the most vital structures in our home. Roofs protect us from the elements, provide insulation, and increase our home’s curb appeal. That’s why it’s essential to understand the basics of roof replacements.

At AAA Roofing Co., we’ve been replacing Albuquerque’s roofs since 1991. We’re the experts that can teach you the basics of roof replacements.

Knowing the Process

Understanding the process of roof replacements helps you appreciate the importance of proper installations. As roofers install your new roof, you can assess their progress by knowing the process involved.

1. Removing the Old Roof

A roof replacement begins with removing the existing roof(s) from the structure. Roofing materials will be torn or scraped off the roof, leaving just the decking in place. The removal process can oftentimes be loud and messy, and the area will be considered a construction site.

Each roof replacement is slightly different and can require various equipment and access to the property. In some cases, a trailer or dumpster is needed. Sometimes, equipment will need to be pulled directly onto your property.

2. Making Repairs

Once the old roofing materials are removed, the roofers should inspect your roof deck condition. If repairs or section replacements are needed, they should be done at this time.

3. Applying Underlayment

Underlayment is an extra layer of protection installed between the shingles and roof deck to protect the property from the elements. Should any water get underneath your shingles, this material acts as an additional barrier to repel water, keeping it from coming into contact with the roofing deck.

4. Installing Drip Edge and Valley Flashings

Drip edge is a metal flashing installed to help redirect water away from the fascia and roof deck while delivering the water into the gutters. These flashings cover the roof’s edges, from eaves to pitches.

Valley flashings protect the creases where two roof panels meet. These flashings direct water away from the roof.

5. Installing Shingles

Now is the time when the roofing materials you see get installed. Shingles are layered at the eaves and edges, leading to the roof’s peaks. Starter shingles are installed first, followed by hip and ridge shingles. 

6. Adding Flashing Around Penetrations

Objects such as vents, chimneys, and skylights create cracks requiring additional protection. Flashing surrounds anything that sticks out of your roof to ensure water doesn’t seep in.

7. Situating Vents

Turbines, pancake vents, and ridge vents are vital in attic space ventilation and are typically preferred for a shingle roof warranty. 

8. Inspecting the New Roof

Before a roof is fully completed, the supervisor should inspect the roof to look for imperfections, incorrect installation, proper sealing of pipes, or other issues.

9. Performing Clean Up

Once your roof has been quality checked, the roofers should clean and haul away any debris from the job site. 

10. Passing Inspection

In areas where a permit is required or requested, an inspector should go out to the property and inspect the installed roof. 

Upon inspection, the roof will either receive a correction notice stating that items need to be fixed or a green tag indicating that the roof was installed correctly and nothing needs to be addressed. 

What about a layover?

For some, a layover offers a more price-conscious way of installing a new roof. Essentially, new roofing materials cover your preexisting roof. While there are advantages, knowing what to consider before adding a layover to your home is essential.

Additional Weight

Adding a new roof to an existing roof adds more weight to your home’s structures. It’s best to inspect your home’s structures to ensure that it can withstand the additional weight.

Hidden Damages

Not all roof damages are visible without removing the old roof. Removing your old roof allows technicians to inspect the underlying roof deck.

Exaggerated Imperfections

If the existing roof has bubbling, bumps, or other imperfections, installing a roof over these can replicate and exaggerate these issues. If not fixed before the layover installation, leaks and weaknesses form, causing the roof to fail prematurely.

Laying over an architectural or dimensional shingle will create the new roof to possibly look wavy or bumpy.

Time and Money Savings

A layover can mean that the roofing company will be at the property for less time than a traditional new roof installation. Since technicians don’t have to tear off the old roof, the process can take less time and possibly cost you less. 

Looking to replace your Albuquerque roof?

At AAA Roofing Co., we perform Albuquerque roof replacements on residential and commercial buildings. Our technicians assess your roof’s needs and offer the best options for your home or building.

Contact us today to set up your Albuquerque roof replacement estimate.