Step-by-Step: What Happens During a New Roof Installation?

If you’re about to get a new roof installed, you’re probably wondering what the process actually involves. How long will it take? What happens on day one? Will there be mess and noise?

At Roofing Newcastle, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners through this process. And we know that when people understand what to expect, the experience is much smoother.

This guide walks you through every stage of a typical roof installation. From the first inspection to the final clean-up, we’ll explain what happens, why it matters, and how long each step usually takes.

Whether your roof has worn out with age or you’ve had storm damage, here’s exactly what you need to know.

Before Installation Begins

Roof inspection and quote

Every roofing project starts with a thorough inspection. A qualified roofer will check the existing roof covering, guttering, and the structural timber underneath. They’ll also take note of any access issues or safety concerns.

At Roofing Newcastle, we provide a full written quote with clear pricing, an estimated timescale, and a breakdown of materials.

This stage usually takes no more than an hour. But it’s the most important part of the process. It allows us to spot any potential issues before work starts.

Choosing materials

The next step is selecting your roofing materials. For most homes in the UK, this will be concrete tiles, clay tiles, or natural slate. Flat roofs might use felt, GRP fibreglass, or EPDM rubber.

Material choice affects both cost and installation time. Slate, for example, takes longer to install than interlocking tiles. Some products may also need to be ordered in advance, especially if you’re going for a specialist finish.

We always talk through the pros and cons of each material with our customers at Roofing Newcastle.

Step-by-Step Installation Timeline

Now let’s get into the installation itself. Most roof replacements take between two and five days, depending on the size of the house and the complexity of the job.

Here’s a breakdown of what happens each day.

Step 1: Scaffolding and site prep

Scaffolding is normally set up the day before the work begins. It allows the roofing team to work safely at height and gives them access to all parts of the roof.

A skip will also be delivered so that waste materials can be cleared as the work progresses.

If the roof is large or awkwardly shaped, extra scaffolding may be required. We also place dust sheets around the garden to protect plants and surfaces.

Step 2: Stripping the old roof

On the first full day of installation, the old roof covering is removed. This includes tiles, underlay, battens, and sometimes insulation.

If the roof structure underneath is in good condition, we move straight to the next step. If there are signs of rot, damp, or damage, we’ll need to carry out some repairs first.

This can add time to the project, but it’s essential for safety and long-term durability. We’ve seen roofs where the joists were barely holding together beneath the tiles. These issues aren’t always visible from the outside.

Step 3: Inspecting the structure

With everything stripped back, we can assess the condition of the roof deck. This is the wooden frame that supports your roof.

We’ll check for:

• Rot or soft spots
• Damp patches
• Cracked or sagging rafters
• Pest damage (like woodworm)

If repairs are needed, we’ll talk you through them before starting. Most minor fixes can be completed the same day.

At Roofing Newcastle, we photograph any problems so you can see exactly what’s going on before we proceed.

Step 4: Installing new underlay and battens

Once the deck is sound, we start laying the breathable underlay. This membrane sits underneath your tiles and keeps moisture out while allowing vapour to escape from the loft.

Over this, we install treated timber battens. These run horizontally across the roof and support the tiles or slates.

Good batten spacing is critical. It ensures tiles are fixed securely and evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Roof covering goes on

Now we install your new tiles, slates, or flat roof covering. This is the part of the process most people picture when they think of roofing work.

We start from the bottom edge of the roof and work upwards in rows. Every tile is secured in line with manufacturer recommendations and current British standards.

For flat roofs, this stage might involve applying multiple layers of felt or fibreglass with adhesive or heat bonding.

The main covering usually takes one to two days depending on the roof size and weather conditions.

Step 6: Flashing and detailing

After the main covering is down, we turn to the edges and joints. This is where proper detailing really matters.

Flashing is installed around chimneys, skylights, and adjoining walls. It directs rainwater away from potential leak points.

We also fit ridge tiles, verge trims, and any dry ridge systems as required. These provide a clean finish and help prevent wind uplift and water ingress.

Lead flashing is carefully measured and fitted by hand. It takes skill, and it’s one of the most important steps for long-term performance.

Step 7: Guttering and ventilation

With the roof surface complete, we reinstall or replace guttering and downpipes if needed. It’s common to upgrade these while the scaffolding is up.

We also check that your roof has proper ventilation. New roofs need airflow to prevent condensation and keep insulation dry.

We might fit ridge vents, eaves ventilation, or tile vents depending on the setup of your loft.

Step 8: Clean-up and final inspection

The final day is for cleaning up and checking every detail.

All waste is removed from site. We sweep the area and use a magnetic roller to pick up any stray nails or fixings.

Our team then carries out a full inspection. We check tile alignment, fixings, seals, and flashing.

You’ll be given a written warranty and instructions for basic maintenance. We also encourage our customers to book a follow-up inspection after their first winter.

At Roofing Newcastle, we take pride in a clean finish and clear communication throughout.

Common Questions About Roof Installations

Do I need to move out during the work?

No, most people stay in their homes while the work is done. It will be noisy during the day, but there’s no safety risk indoors.

If you work from home or have pets that dislike loud sounds, it might be worth planning some time away.

What happens if it rains?

If bad weather hits during your installation, we pause the job and cover the roof securely. The breathable underlay offers temporary protection even before the tiles go on.

We monitor forecasts closely and won’t start a job we can’t make watertight.

Will there be disruption to my garden or driveway?

There may be scaffolding, skips, and materials stored near the house. We always take care to protect paving and plants, and we leave the property tidy at the end.

Let us know in advance if you have special access needs or garden areas you’d like us to avoid.

Final Thoughts

Getting a new roof is a major investment, but knowing what to expect at each stage can make the process feel more manageable.

From the first inspection to the final fixings, a good roofing team will keep you informed and make sure everything is done safely and properly.

At Roofing Newcastle, we’ve built our reputation on clear communication, tidy work, and roofs that last. If you’re thinking about a roof replacement and want to know how long it will take or what’s involved, get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote.

We’re always happy to explain your options and help you plan ahead.