Roof replacement is a big project that requires planning, safety, and careful execution

Looking to replace your roof? Here’s a clear breakdown of the steps for roof replacement.

1. Planning & Preparation

• Inspection: Assess the current roof’s condition (look for leaks, rot, sagging, missing shingles).

• Permits & Regulations: Check if your city requires a permit for roof replacement.

• Choose Materials: Asphalt shingles, metal, tile, or other roofing materials.

• Budgeting: Get cost estimates and hire a contractor (or prepare for DIY if skilled).

• Safety: Secure ladders, harnesses, gloves, and proper footwear.

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2. Removing the Old Roof

• Tear-off: Use a roofing shovel or pitchfork to remove old shingles, nails, and underlayment.

• Dispose of Debris: Place materials in a dumpster for disposal.

• Inspect Decking: Check plywood or roof sheathing for damage, rot, or soft spots; replace as needed.

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3. Preparing the Roof Deck

• Clean Surface: Ensure the deck is smooth and nail-free.

• Repair & Replace: Install new plywood sections if necessary.

• Install Drip Edge: Metal strips along eaves and rakes to guide water off the roof.

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4. Installing Underlayment & Flashing

• Ice & Water Shield: Place at eaves, valleys, and around penetrations (chimneys, vents).

• Roofing Underlayment (Felt or Synthetic): Roll out across the roof deck for waterproofing.

• Flashing: Install around chimneys, skylights, and vents to prevent leaks.

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5. Installing the New Roof

• Starter Shingles: First row at the eaves to prevent wind uplift.

• Shingle Installation: Lay shingles in overlapping rows, following manufacturer’s pattern.

• Nailing: Use roofing nails at recommended placement for proper sealing.

• Ridges & Hips: Install ridge cap shingles for a finished look and ventilation.

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6. Ventilation & Sealing

• Ridge Vent or Box Vents: Ensure attic ventilation is installed correctly.

• Seal Penetrations: Caulk or seal around vents, pipes, and flashing.

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7. Clean up & Final Inspection

• Debris Removal: Collect nails with a magnetic roller; remove leftover scraps.

• Gutter Cleaning: Clear shingles, nails, and dust from gutters.

• Final Inspection: Check for proper alignment, secure flashing, and no exposed nails.

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End Result: A new, watertight roof that should last decades (depending on material).

What are the available options for roof replacement?

There are a number of common flat and pitched roof types in the UK . See below for our visual guide:

What are the commonly used materials for replacing a roof here in the UK? 

Flat Roof Materials – UK Options

Here are the most common choices for flat roofs in the UK, each with its pros, cons, lifespan, and typical cost:

1. Torch-on Felt / Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

• Description: Layers of bitumen-impregnated felt, sometimes with a gravel or mineral surface.

• Lifespan: ~10–20 years

• Best for: Budget projects—garages, sheds, small extensions

2. EPDM Rubber Membrane

• Pros: Flexible, durable, easy to install in large single sheets, low maintenance, excellent waterproofing

• Cons: Higher initial cost, appearance may be less appealing

• Lifespan: ~25–50 years

• Best for: Long-term reliability; good for both DIY and professional installation

3. GRP (Glass-Reinforced Plastic) / Fibreglass

• Pros: Seamless, very durable, customizable colors, sleek finish

• Cons: Higher cost, requires professional installation, may become brittle if poorly installed

• Lifespan: ~20–40+ years

• Best for: High-quality, aesthetically pleasing flat roofs

4. Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO)

• PVC:

  • Durable, UV-resistant, fire-rated, lightweight

  • Lifespan: ~25–35 year

• TPO:

  • Reflective (energy-saving), eco-friendly, recyclable

  • Lifespan: ~20–30 year

• Best for: Modern, energy-efficient applications

5. Green (Sedum) Roofs

• Pros: Eco-friendly, excellent insulation, visually attractive; supports biodiversity

• Cons: Higher upfront cost, heavier load, complex installation and maintenance

• Lifespan: ~25–40 years

• Best for: Sustainable, environmentally-conscious projects

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Pitched Roof Materials – UK Options

When it comes to pitched roofs, you have a range of traditional and contemporary materials:

• Natural Slate

• Pros: Elegant, durable (100+ years), weather-resistant

• Cons: Heavy, expensive

• Artificial (Composite/Fibre-Cement) Slate

• Cheaper (~£60/m²), lighter, easier to install, but shorter lifespan

• Fibre-cement tiles: Budget-friendly; lifespan ~20–60 years 

• Clay Tiles

• Pros: Natural appearance, durable (often 100+ years), classic look

• Cons: Heavy, costly 

• Concrete Tiles

• Pros: Affordable, low maintenance (~50-year lifespan), varied colours

• Cons: Heavy, can fade

• Stone Tiles

• Pros: Extremely durable (100+ years), heritage-approved, doesn’t fade

• Cons: Very expensive 

• Thatched (Reed) Roofs

• Traditional, quaint aesthetic; lifespan ~40–45 years

• Pros: Charming look

• Cons: High maintenance, expensive 

• Zinc or Metal Roofing

• Pros: Durable (100+ years), lightweight, low maintenance, modern aesthetic

• Cons: Higher cost

Thinking of replacing your roof or starting a new build? Speak with dobson roofing services to explore the best options for your home.