For most homeowners in Mid-Wilshire, Hancock Park, and Miracle Mile, a new roof installation is the largest home improvement project they will ever undertake. It’s a loud, messy, and complex operation that can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what comes next.
At Power Roofing, we believe that a well-informed client is a happy client. Our goal is to pull back the curtain on the full roof replacement step-by-step process. From the moment our trucks arrive in your 90036 driveway to the final magnetic sweep of your lawn, here is exactly what you can expect from a professional roofing contractor.
Phase 1: Preparation and Protection
Before a single shingle is removed, we must ensure your property is “roof-ready.”
- Material Delivery: Usually 24 hours before the start date, your new shingles, underlayment, and vents will be delivered. We coordinate the drop-off to ensure it doesn’t block your garage or street access.
- Property Shielding: We use the “Catch-All” system—heavy-duty tarps and plywood leaning boards—to protect your windows, siding, and landscaping.
- Safety Setup: Our crew establishes safety lines and harnesses. In Los Angeles, CA, adhering to OSHA standards isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a requirement for a reputable roofing contractor.
Phase 2: The Tear-Off
This is the loudest part of the process. We don’t just go over the old roof; we remove it entirely.
- Stripping the Layers: Using specialized roofing shovels, we strip the old shingles and underlayment down to the wooden roof deck.
- Gutter Cleaning: As we remove the old roof, we clear any immediate debris from your gutters to ensure they are ready for the final phase.
Phase 3: The “Skeleton” Inspection
With the roof deck exposed, we finally see the “bones” of your home.
- Decking Assessment: We inspect every square inch of the plywood or plank decking. If we find rot, mold, or sagging boards, we replace them immediately. A new roof installation is only as good as the wood underneath it.
- Refastening: We ensure the existing decking is properly nailed to the rafters, meeting current Los Angeles seismic and wind codes.
Phase 4: The Waterproofing Layers
Now, we begin building the roof back up, layer by layer.
- Drip Edge Installation: We install metal drip edges along the eaves and rakes to lead water away from your fascia boards.
- Ice and Water Shield: In vulnerable areas like valleys, chimneys, and skylights, we apply a “peel-and-stick” leak barrier for extra protection against the rare but heavy L.A. rainstorms.
- Underlayment: We roll out high-performance synthetic underlayment over the entire deck. This is your “backup” roof—the secondary defense against moisture.
Phase 5: Shingles and Ventilation
This is where your home’s curb appeal is transformed.
- Starter Shingles: A special row of shingles is applied along the edges to prevent wind uplift.
- Main Shingle Application: Our crew installs the field shingles in a staggered pattern, using high-quality roofing nails (never staples) according to manufacturer specs.
- Flashing and Boots: We install new metal flashing around chimneys and “boots” around plumbing vents to create watertight seals at every penetration.
- Ventilation System: We install ridge vents or solar attic fans to ensure proper airflow, keeping your Carthay Square or Beverly Grove home cool and compliant with Title 24 regulations.
Phase 6: Cleanup and Final Sign-Off
A professional job isn’t finished until your property looks better than when we arrived.
- The Deep Clean: We blow off the roof, clean out the gutters, and remove all tarps.
- Magnetic Sweep: We use high-powered magnets to collect every stray nail from your lawn, driveway, and flowerbeds.
- Final Inspection: The project manager performs a 20-point walkthrough to ensure the workmanship meets our standards and your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: How long does the process take? A: For most residential homes in Picfair Village or Mid-City, the entire full roof replacement step-by-step process takes 2 to 3 days, depending on the complexity and weather.
Q: Can I stay in my house during the replacement? A: Yes, but be prepared for significant noise. If you work from home or have pets that are sensitive to noise, you may want to plan a “day out” during the tear-off phase.
Q: Do I need to do anything to prepare? A: We recommend moving vehicles to the street, clearing your driveway, and taking down fragile wall hangings inside, as the vibrations from the roof work can occasionally shift items on shelves.
Q: What if it rains during the replacement? A: As a professional roofing contractor, we monitor the weather hourly. We only tear off sections that we can “dry-in” with underlayment before any expected rain. Your home is never left exposed.
Q: Will you need access to the inside of my house? A: Only if we are replacing a skylight or if we need to inspect the attic for a specific structural reason. Otherwise, 100% of the work is done from the exterior.
Trust the Process with Power Roofing
Knowing the full roof replacement step-by-step process gives you the confidence to start your project. At Power Roofing, we pride ourselves on a “no-surprises” approach. We keep you updated at every stage, ensuring your new roof installation is handled with the precision and care your home deserves.
Ready to see how we can transform your roof? Contact the Los Angeles experts today.
950 S Fairfax Ave Suite 238, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States
Phone: 424-999-7359
Wondering how to make sure your contractor is following these steps correctly? Read our guide on to ensure you hire a pro.