Replacing a residential roof is a major home improvement project. Knowing what happens at each stage of installation gives homeowners peace of mind.
Our installation crews at Pittsburgh Roofing Specialists complete most single-family roof installations in 1 to 2 days.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Phase 1: Material Delivery & Site Prep (Day 1 Morning)
Lumber and shingle pallets arrive via boom truck. Plywood tarps and catch nets are placed around landscaping and driveway spaces.
Phase 2: Complete Tear-Off down to Plywood (Day 1 Morning)
Old shingles, worn underlayment, and rusted flashings are stripped away down to bare wooden roof decking. Damaged or rotted plywood sheets are replaced.
Phase 3: Ice & Water Shield & Synthetic Underlayment (Day 1 Afternoon)
Self-adhering membrane is applied along eaves, valleys, and wall junctures, followed by heavy synthetic underlayment across all roof slopes.
Phase 4: Architectural Shingle & Vent Installation (Day 1–2)
Architectural shingles are installed using 6-nail high-wind fastening patterns. Ridge vents, pipe boots, and drip edges are secured.
Phase 5: Magnetic Cleanup & Final Walkthrough (Day 2)
Rolling magnetic sweepers collect loose nails around lawn areas, followed by a final inspection.
Learn details on our Roof Installation and Roof Replacement service pages.