Removal and support
The old covering and disposal belong in the scope. Once the deck is exposed, deteriorated wood needs repair or replacement before it supports the new system.
Replace a worn roof with a complete scope for the covering, support and details that keep water out.

A replacement makes sense when the existing roof will not support dependable repairs. That can mean widespread deterioration, covering that breaks when a connection is opened, or several roof details failing together. Age helps frame the question, but the actual condition determines the work.
Removing the old covering exposes the decking and roof connections. That is the opportunity to resolve damaged support, compatible underlayment, flashing, edges and ventilation before the new covering goes on. A new visible surface alone does not correct problems underneath.

The old covering and disposal belong in the scope. Once the deck is exposed, deteriorated wood needs repair or replacement before it supports the new system.
Underlayment, valley details, roof-to-wall flashing and penetrations need compatible overlaps. Each opening in the roof has to reconnect to the surrounding covering.
The selected shingles or metal system sets fastening and detail requirements. Intake and exhaust ventilation are considered together with the roof and building, rather than adding an outlet by itself.
See shingle options for product distinctions and metal roofing for panel-system details.
| Material | The decision it brings |
|---|---|
| Architectural asphalt | A layered shingle profile with product-specific colors, fastening and installation requirements. Suitable roof pitch and sound decking matter. |
| Impact-rated asphalt | A selected product can have a published impact-test rating. That rating does not eliminate hail risk, determine warranty coverage or establish a policy discount. |
| Metal | Panel profile, concealed or exposed fasteners, movement and flashing details shape the installation and maintenance needs. |
| Low-slope sections | An addition or separate building section can need a different roof system. A shingle estimate should not silently absorb a membrane roof. |
Roof measurement, material selection, removal, access, protection and applicable permit work are settled as part of the project.
Tear-off reveals the deck and connections. Newly discovered damage is explained and added work agreed before it proceeds.
Compatible roof layers, flashing, covering and ventilation details are installed, followed by debris removal and cleanup.
The roof cost calculator provides a bounded architectural-asphalt planning example. The actual property needs measurement and a defined scope.
| Cost driver | What changes |
|---|---|
| Actual roof surface | Slopes, overhangs and covered areas determine quantity. Living floor area does not measure the roof. |
| Complexity and removal | Valleys, dormers, steep access, extra layers and disposal affect labor and setup. |
| Decking and connections | Damaged wood, flashing reconstruction and separate trade work change the installed scope. |
| Selected system | The product, underlayment, edges and ventilation details determine what is included. |
A recover is not suitable for every roof. Existing deterioration, trapped problems, load and code or manufacturer requirements can rule it out. Removal allows the underlying deck and details to be assessed directly.
Not automatically. Sound decking that supports the selected system can remain. Damaged or unsuitable areas need work, and the condition becomes clearer during removal.
No. Product warranty terms and contractor workmanship terms cover different responsibilities. The selected product, installed assembly and contractor agreement define the actual coverage.
Start with a free inspection and a discussion of the roof, material and complete scope.
