DIY Home Improvement: A Comprehensive Guide to Reroofing Your House

Reroofing your house is a significant undertaking, but it’s an investment that can dramatically improve your home’s value, protection, and curb appeal. While hiring a professional is always an option, tackling the project yourself can save you a considerable amount of money. However, it’s crucial to understand that reroofing is physically demanding and requires careful planning, meticulous execution, and adherence to safety protocols. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from initial assessment to final cleanup, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to reroof your house successfully.

## Before You Begin: Assessment and Preparation

Before you even think about climbing onto your roof, thorough assessment and preparation are paramount. This phase will help you determine the scope of the project, estimate costs, and ensure you have the necessary tools and permits.

**1. Inspect Your Roof Thoroughly:**

* **Visual Inspection:** Walk around your property and carefully examine your roof from the ground. Look for signs of damage, such as missing, cracked, curling, or buckling shingles. Check for areas where the shingles are losing granules (the small, protective particles on the surface). Also, inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for rust, damage, or gaps.
* **Interior Inspection:** Head inside your attic, preferably during daylight hours. Look for water stains, dark spots, or mold growth on the underside of the roof decking. These are telltale signs of leaks. Also, check for sagging or bowing of the roof structure, which could indicate structural problems.
* **Document Your Findings:** Take detailed notes and photographs of all the damage you find. This documentation will be helpful when determining the extent of the repairs needed and when purchasing materials.

**2. Determine the Scope of the Project:**

* **Minor Repairs vs. Complete Reroofing:** Based on your inspection, decide whether you can get away with minor repairs (replacing a few damaged shingles) or if a complete reroofing is necessary. If more than 20% of your roof is damaged or if the underlayment is compromised, a complete reroofing is generally recommended.
* **Assess the Roof Decking:** The roof decking is the wooden surface that the shingles are attached to. If the decking is rotted, water-damaged, or delaminated, it will need to be replaced. This can significantly increase the cost and complexity of the project.
* **Consider Existing Layers:** Determine how many layers of roofing are currently on your roof. Most building codes allow for a maximum of two layers. If you have more than two layers, you’ll need to remove them all before installing the new roof.

**3. Obtain Necessary Permits:**

* **Check Local Building Codes:** Contact your local building department to determine if you need a permit to reroof your house. Building codes vary from place to place, and failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines or delays.
* **Submit Plans and Applications:** Be prepared to submit plans and applications to the building department. These may include drawings of your roof, specifications for the materials you’ll be using, and information about your contractor (if you’re hiring one).

**4. Choose Your Roofing Materials:**

* **Asphalt Shingles:** The most common and affordable roofing material. Available in a variety of colors, styles, and warranties.
* **Wood Shingles and Shakes:** Offer a natural, rustic look but require more maintenance and are more susceptible to fire.
* **Tile Roofing:** Durable and long-lasting, but heavy and expensive. Requires specialized installation techniques.
* **Metal Roofing:** Increasingly popular for its durability, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetic.
* **Slate Roofing:** The most durable and expensive roofing material. Can last for over 100 years.
* **Consider your Budget, Climate, and Home’s Style:** When choosing roofing materials, consider your budget, the climate in your area, and the overall style of your home. Research the pros and cons of each material before making a decision.

**5. Calculate Material Quantities:**

* **Measure Your Roof:** Accurately measure the area of your roof to determine how many shingles, underlayment, and other materials you’ll need. Most roofing materials are sold by the square (100 square feet).
* **Calculate Waste Factor:** Add a waste factor of 10-15% to your material calculations to account for cuts, mistakes, and damaged materials. For more complex roofs with many angles and dormers, increase the waste factor accordingly.
* **Consult with Suppliers:** Consult with roofing material suppliers to get accurate estimates and advice on material quantities.

**6. Gather Your Tools and Equipment:**

* **Safety Gear:** Hard hat, safety glasses, work gloves, and a safety harness with a lifeline.
* **Roofing Tools:** Roofing hammer, utility knife, pry bar, nail gun (optional), chalk line, and measuring tape.
* **Ladders and Scaffolding:** Sturdy ladders and scaffolding to safely access your roof. Ensure they are properly secured and meet safety standards.
* **Material Handling Equipment:** Wheelbarrow, roofing shovel, and debris containers for removing old roofing materials.

**7. Prepare the Work Area:**

* **Protect Landscaping:** Cover shrubs, flowerbeds, and other landscaping with tarps to protect them from falling debris.
* **Move Vehicles:** Move vehicles away from the house to avoid damage.
* **Inform Neighbors:** Let your neighbors know about the project and any potential disruptions.

## Step-by-Step Reroofing Process

Now that you’ve completed the assessment and preparation phase, you’re ready to start the actual reroofing process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful and safe project.

**1. Remove the Old Roofing:**

* **Start at the Ridge:** Begin removing the old roofing materials at the ridge (the highest point of the roof) and work your way down.
* **Use a Roofing Shovel:** Use a roofing shovel or pry bar to lift and remove the old shingles, nails, and underlayment.
* **Dispose of Debris Properly:** Dispose of the old roofing materials in a designated debris container. Check with your local waste management company for disposal guidelines.
* **Inspect the Roof Decking:** Once the old roofing is removed, carefully inspect the roof decking for any damage or rot. Replace any damaged sections with new plywood or OSB.

**2. Install Drip Edge:**

* **Apply to Eaves and Rakes:** Install drip edge along the eaves (the lower edge of the roof) and rakes (the sloped edges of the roof). The drip edge helps to prevent water from wicking back under the shingles and causing damage.
* **Overlap at Corners:** Overlap the drip edge at the corners of the roof to ensure a watertight seal.
* **Nail Securely:** Nail the drip edge securely to the roof decking using roofing nails.

**3. Install Underlayment:**

* **Roll Out Underlayment:** Roll out the underlayment (usually asphalt-saturated felt or synthetic material) horizontally across the roof, starting at the eaves and working your way up.
* **Overlap Seams:** Overlap the seams of the underlayment by at least 6 inches to prevent water penetration.
* **Nail Securely:** Nail the underlayment securely to the roof decking using roofing nails. Use enough nails to prevent the underlayment from blowing off in high winds.
* **Consider Ice and Water Shield:** In areas with heavy snow or ice, consider installing ice and water shield along the eaves and in valleys to provide extra protection against water damage.

**4. Install Flashing:**

* **Around Chimneys, Vents, and Skylights:** Install flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other roof penetrations to prevent water from entering the house.
* **Use Step Flashing:** Use step flashing along walls where the roof meets a vertical surface. Step flashing consists of individual pieces of flashing that are woven between the shingles and the wall.
* **Seal with Roofing Cement:** Seal all flashing seams with roofing cement to create a watertight seal.

**5. Install Shingles:**

* **Start at the Eaves:** Begin installing the shingles at the eaves and work your way up. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper shingle placement and nailing.
* **Overlap Courses:** Overlap each course of shingles according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will ensure that the roof is watertight and that the shingles are properly secured.
* **Use Roofing Nails:** Use roofing nails to attach the shingles to the roof decking. Drive the nails straight and flush with the shingle surface. Avoid overdriving the nails, which can damage the shingles.
* **Cut Shingles as Needed:** Cut shingles as needed to fit around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other roof penetrations.
* **Stagger Joints:** Stagger the joints between shingles in each course to prevent water from seeping through.

**6. Install Ridge Cap:**

* **Cut Ridge Cap Shingles:** Cut ridge cap shingles from standard shingles or purchase pre-cut ridge cap shingles.
* **Apply to the Ridge:** Apply the ridge cap shingles along the ridge of the roof, overlapping each shingle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
* **Nail Securely:** Nail the ridge cap shingles securely to the roof decking using roofing nails.
* **Seal with Roofing Cement:** Seal the seams of the ridge cap shingles with roofing cement to create a watertight seal.

**7. Clean Up:**

* **Remove Debris:** Remove all debris from the roof and the surrounding area.
* **Sweep the Yard:** Sweep the yard to remove any nails, shingles, or other debris.
* **Inspect the Roof:** Inspect the roof one last time to ensure that all shingles are properly installed and that there are no leaks.

## Safety Precautions

Reroofing can be a dangerous job, so it’s important to take the following safety precautions:

* **Wear Safety Gear:** Always wear a hard hat, safety glasses, work gloves, and a safety harness with a lifeline when working on the roof.
* **Use Proper Ladders and Scaffolding:** Use sturdy ladders and scaffolding to safely access your roof. Ensure they are properly secured and meet safety standards.
* **Be Aware of Weather Conditions:** Avoid working on the roof in wet, windy, or icy conditions.
* **Take Breaks:** Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
* **Work with a Partner:** If possible, work with a partner who can help you with the lifting and maneuvering of materials.
* **Avoid Working Alone:** Never work alone on the roof.
* **Secure Tools and Materials:** Secure all tools and materials to prevent them from falling off the roof.
* **Be Careful Around Power Lines:** Be extremely careful around power lines. Maintain a safe distance and avoid contact.
* **Know Your Limits:** Don’t attempt to do more than you are capable of. If you are uncomfortable with any aspect of the project, hire a professional.

## Tips for a Successful Reroofing Project

* **Plan Ahead:** Thoroughly plan the project before you start. This will help you avoid mistakes and delays.
* **Get Multiple Estimates:** If you’re hiring a contractor, get multiple estimates to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
* **Check References:** If you’re hiring a contractor, check their references to ensure they are qualified and reliable.
* **Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions:** Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions for all roofing materials before you start. This will help you ensure that the materials are installed correctly.
* **Start Small:** If you’re new to roofing, start with a small, simple section of the roof. This will give you a chance to practice and gain experience before tackling the entire project.
* **Take Your Time:** Don’t rush the project. Take your time and do the job right.
* **Inspect Your Work Regularly:** Inspect your work regularly to ensure that everything is being done correctly.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help:** If you’re unsure about anything, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional or experienced DIYer.
* **Clean Up Regularly:** Clean up the work area regularly to prevent accidents and injuries.
* **Dispose of Waste Properly:** Dispose of all waste materials properly.

## Cost Considerations

The cost of reroofing your house can vary widely depending on several factors, including:

* **Roof Size:** The larger the roof, the more materials and labor will be required.
* **Roof Complexity:** Complex roofs with many angles, dormers, and chimneys will be more expensive to reroof.
* **Roofing Material:** Different roofing materials have different costs. Asphalt shingles are typically the least expensive, while slate and tile are the most expensive.
* **Labor Costs:** Labor costs vary depending on the location and the experience of the contractor.
* **Permit Fees:** Permit fees can vary depending on the local building codes.
* **Disposal Fees:** Disposal fees for old roofing materials can also vary.

To get an accurate estimate of the cost of reroofing your house, it’s best to get multiple quotes from qualified contractors. Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs, including materials, labor, permits, and disposal fees.

## When to Hire a Professional

While reroofing your house yourself can save you money, it’s not always the best option. Consider hiring a professional if:

* **You’re Not Comfortable Working at Heights:** Reroofing requires working at heights, which can be dangerous if you’re not comfortable with it.
* **You Don’t Have the Necessary Skills or Experience:** Reroofing requires specialized skills and experience. If you don’t have these, it’s best to hire a professional.
* **Your Roof is Complex:** Complex roofs require specialized knowledge and skills. If your roof is complex, it’s best to hire a professional.
* **You Don’t Have the Time:** Reroofing can be a time-consuming project. If you don’t have the time to do it yourself, hire a professional.
* **You Want a Warranty:** Professional roofing contractors typically offer warranties on their work. If you want a warranty, hire a professional.

## Conclusion

Reroofing your house is a challenging but rewarding project. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully reroof your house and save money. However, it’s important to remember that safety should always be your top priority. If you’re not comfortable with any aspect of the project, hire a professional.