Tear-off and Install

Installing a new asphalt shingle roof is a multi-step process designed to ensure your home is protected from the elements. As a homeowner, understanding these steps can help you monitor the quality of the work.

1. Preparation and Tear-Off

The first step is preparing your property by protecting landscaping and moving vehicles away from the driveway.

• Old Shingle Removal: Contractors strip the existing layers of shingles down to the bare wood deck.
• Inspection: Once the deck is exposed, it is inspected for hidden damage like rotted or sagging wood that may have been omitted from the initial estimate.

2. Deck Preparation and Underlayment

A solid foundation is critical for a long-lasting roof.

• Deck Repairs: Any damaged wood found during the inspection is replaced to provide a sturdy surface.
• Drip Edge Installation: A metal "drip edge" is installed along the roof's perimeter to guide water away from the fascia and into the gutters.
• Underlayment: A water-resistant barrier, such as felt paper or synthetic underlayment, is laid over the entire deck to provide a secondary layer of protection against moisture.

3. Shingle Installation

The shingles are the primary defense for your home.

• Starter Shingles: A special row of "starter shingles" is applied at the eaves to prevent wind from lifting the roof edges.
• Main Shingle Application: Shingles are installed starting from the bottom and working upward in a staggered pattern to ensure proper water shedding.
• Flashing: Metal flashing is installed around vulnerable areas like chimneys, vents, and valleys to prevent leaks.

4. Ventilation and Finishing Touches

Proper airflow is essential for the health of your roof and attic.

• Ridge Vents: Ridge vents are often installed at the very top of the roof to allow hot air to escape the attic.
• Clean-up: A thorough sweep of the property is conducted, usually with a magnetic tool, to collect any stray nails or debris.
• Final Inspection: A final walkthrough ensures the installation meets local building code requirements and manufacturer standards.

If unexpected issues like rotted decking are found during the tear-off, All Quality Construction may need to file a supplement claim to cover these additional necessary repairs.

In Waxahachie, roofing projects must adhere to specific building code requirements to ensure safety and structural integrity. These local ordinances often mandate specific materials and installation methods that may not have been included in an initial insurance estimate.

Common Roofing Code Requirements

• Drip Edge Installation: Most modern codes require a metal drip edge along the roof's perimeter to protect the fascia and guide water into gutters.
• Ice and Water Shield: Depending on local climate standards, specific leak barriers may be required in valleys or around roof penetrations.
• Ventilation Standards: Adequate attic ventilation is often mandated to prevent heat buildup and moisture damage, which can extend the life of your shingles.
• Sheathing Thickness: Codes specify the minimum thickness and condition of the roof decking (sheathing) to ensure it can support the weight of the new shingles.