Roofing Project Planning Guide
Everything you need to know about planning, budgeting, and executing a successful roof replacement or repair project. From material selection to weather considerations, this guide covers all aspects of residential roofing.
HSG Roofing Statistics:
Properly planned roofing projects have 90% fewer weather delays and 40% fewer change orders. HSG has completed over 2,000 roofing projects with 96% customer satisfaction ratings.
Chapter 1: When Do You Need a New Roof?
Roof Inspection Checklist
Age Assessment: Most asphalt shingle roofs need replacement after 20-25 years
Missing or Damaged Shingles: Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
Granule Loss: Excessive granules in gutters or bare spots on shingles
Sagging Roof Deck: Visible sagging between rafters
Interior Water Damage: Stains, mold, or peeling paint near roofline
Flashing Issues: Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights
Gutter Problems: Rust, damage, or frequent clogging
Repair vs. Replacement Decision Matrix
| Scenario |
Roof Age |
Damage Extent |
Recommended Action |
Cost Range |
| Minor leak, few damaged shingles |
< 10 years |
< 5% |
Repair |
$300 - $1,500 |
| Multiple leaks, moderate damage |
10-20 years |
5-25% |
Partial replacement |
$2,000 - $8,000 |
| Extensive damage, multiple issues |
15-25 years |
> 25% |
Full replacement |
$8,000 - $25,000+ |
| Storm damage, insurance claim |
Any age |
Varies |
Assessment needed |
Insurance dependent |
Chapter 2: Roofing Material Comparison
| Material |
Lifespan |
Cost per sq ft |
Pros |
Cons |
| Asphalt Shingles |
20-30 years |
$3.50 - $7.00 |
Affordable, easy installation, variety |
Shorter lifespan, weather sensitive |
| Architectural Shingles |
25-35 years |
$4.50 - $9.00 |
Better appearance, wind resistance |
Higher cost than 3-tab |
| Metal Roofing |
40-70 years |
$7.00 - $15.00 |
Long-lasting, energy efficient |
Higher upfront cost, noise |
| Tile (Clay/Concrete) |
50-100 years |
$8.00 - $20.00 |
Very durable, fire resistant |
Heavy, expensive, brittle |
| Slate |
75-150 years |
$15.00 - $30.00 |
Extremely durable, prestigious |
Very expensive, heavy, specialized install |
| Wood Shingles/Shakes |
25-40 years |
$8.00 - $16.00 |
Natural beauty, insulation |
Fire risk, maintenance, cost |
Regional Material Considerations
- Hot Climates: Light-colored materials, reflective coatings, ventilation
- Cold/Snow: Ice dam prevention, steep slopes, proper insulation
- High Wind Areas: Enhanced fastening, wind-rated materials
- Fire-Prone Areas: Class A fire rating, non-combustible materials
- Heavy Rain: Proper slope, quality underlayment, sealed penetrations
Chapter 3: Cost Estimation
Roofing Cost Breakdown
| Component |
% of Total Cost |
Typical Range |
| Materials (shingles, underlayment, etc.) |
40-50% |
$3,200 - $12,500 |
| Labor |
35-45% |
$2,800 - $11,250 |
| Tear-off and disposal |
8-12% |
$600 - $3,000 |
| Permits and inspections |
1-3% |
$100 - $750 |
| Contingency/extras |
5-10% |
$400 - $2,500 |
Factors That Increase Roofing Costs
- Steep Slope (>8/12 pitch): +15-25% for safety equipment and slower work
- Multiple Stories: +10-20% for additional safety measures
- Complex Design: +15-30% for dormers, valleys, chimneys
- Structural Repairs: +$2,000-$8,000 for decking/rafter replacement
- Premium Materials: +25-100% for high-end shingles or metal
- Accessibility Issues: +10-15% for difficult site access
HSG Cost-Saving Tips:
- Schedule during off-peak seasons (late fall/early spring)
- Bundle with neighbors for volume discounts
- Consider architectural shingles over premium materials for best value
- Address repairs early to avoid full replacement
Chapter 4: Weather Considerations
Optimal Roofing Weather Conditions
Best Conditions:
- Temperature: 45-85°F
- Low humidity (<70%)
- Minimal wind (<15 mph)
- No precipitation for 24-48 hours before/after
Seasonal Considerations:
- Spring: Ideal weather, higher contractor availability, moderate pricing
- Summer: Consistent weather, peak season pricing, hot working conditions
- Fall: Good weather, storm preparation rush, moderate pricing
- Winter: Weather delays, emergency pricing, limited working days
Emergency Weather Preparations
Storm Season Prep: Inspect and secure loose shingles before storm season
Snow Load Assessment: Ensure roof can handle expected snow loads
Ice Dam Prevention: Proper ventilation and insulation to prevent ice dams
Emergency Repairs: Temporary fixes for immediate leak protection
Chapter 5: Permits & Insurance
Permit Requirements
When Permits Are Required:
- Complete roof replacement
- Structural repairs or modifications
- Adding skylights or other penetrations
- Work exceeding 25% of roof area
Typical Permit Costs: $100-$500 depending on location and project scope
Permit Process Timeline: 1-3 weeks for approval, inspections during/after work
Insurance Claims Process
- Document Damage: Photos, videos, detailed notes
- Contact Insurance: Report claim within 24-48 hours
- Emergency Repairs: Temporary fixes to prevent further damage
- Insurance Inspection: Adjuster assesses damage and coverage
- Contractor Selection: Choose licensed, insured contractor
- Scope Agreement: Ensure contractor and insurance agree on work scope
- Payment Process: Understand deductible and payment schedule
Insurance Claim Red Flags:
- Contractors who offer to waive your deductible
- Door-to-door solicitation after storms
- Pressure to sign contracts immediately
- Contractors who offer to handle the entire insurance process
Chapter 6: Contractor Selection
Essential Contractor Qualifications
Valid License: Current contractor's license for your state/locality
Insurance Coverage: General liability and workers' compensation
Local References: Recent projects in your area (within 6 months)
Better Business Bureau: Good standing with BBB or local trade organizations
Manufacturer Certifications: Certified by major shingle manufacturers
Written Estimates: Detailed, written estimates with material specifications
Questions to Ask Roofing Contractors
- How many roofing projects do you complete annually?
- Can you provide local references from the past 6 months?
- What warranties do you offer on materials and workmanship?
- How do you handle unexpected issues (rotted decking, etc.)?
- What safety protocols do you follow?
- How do you protect landscaping and property during work?
- What is your cleanup policy?
- How do you handle weather delays?
- What is your payment schedule?
- Do you handle permits and inspections?
Chapter 7: Project Timeline & Process
Typical Roofing Project Timeline
- Day 1: Material delivery, site preparation, tear-off begins
- Day 2: Complete tear-off, inspect/repair decking, install underlayment
- Day 3: Shingle installation, flashing, ventilation
- Day 4: Complete installation, gutters, cleanup, final inspection
Factors Affecting Timeline:
- Roof size and complexity
- Weather conditions
- Material availability
- Structural repairs needed
- Permit approval delays
HSG Project Management:
Our roofing teams complete 95% of residential projects in 2-3 days, with daily progress updates and photo documentation provided to homeowners.