Detailed Answer
The timeline for roof replacement depends on roof size, complexity, material choice, crew size, and weather conditions.
Timeline by material type (1,700 sq ft roof)
- 3-tab shingles: 1-2 days
- Architectural shingles: 1-3 days
- Standing seam metal: 3-7 days
- Tile (clay/concrete): 5-10 days
- Slate: 7-14 days
Factors that extend the timeline
*Roof complexity*: Each dormer, valley, skylight, and chimney adds time for custom flashing and cutting. A simple gable roof is 2x faster than a complex hip roof with dormers.
*Steep pitch*: Roofs above 8:12 pitch require safety harnesses and toe boards, slowing crew movement by 30-50%.
*Deck repairs*: Rotted plywood discovered during tear-off adds 2-4 hours per sheet replaced. Severely deteriorated decks can add a full day.
*Multiple layers*: Removing two existing layers takes 50-75% longer than removing one.
*Weather delays*: Rain, high winds (25+ mph), or extreme heat (above 100 degrees F) will pause work. Most crews will not install shingles in rain as it traps moisture.
A typical day-by-day schedule for a 2-day shingle job
Day 1: Tear-off old roofing, inspect and repair decking, install ice-and-water shield and synthetic underlayment, begin shingle installation.
Day 2: Complete shingle installation, install ridge cap, flash all penetrations, clean up debris, final inspection.
What to expect during installation
- Significant noise (plan to be away if possible)
- Vibration throughout the house
- Debris in landscaping (crews lay tarps but some granules scatter)
- Dumpster in driveway for 1-3 days
- No water entry risk if properly tarped overnight between days