The Short Answer
For a standard residential roof replacement in St. Louis -- a single-family home, 20-35 squares, no major structural issues -- the physical installation takes 1-3 days. But the total process from first call to final walkthrough is typically 1-4 weeks.
Here is where that time actually goes.
Phase 1: Inspection and Estimate (Day 1-3)
A reputable contractor will inspect your roof in person before quoting anything. This includes measuring, checking the decking condition, noting ventilation, and documenting any existing issues. With us, this typically happens within 24-48 hours of your first call.
Phase 2: Material Selection and Ordering (Day 3-7)
Once you approve the scope and select your materials, we order everything. Architectural shingles, underlayment, flashing, ridge vent, pipe boots -- everything arrives at your property before we start. Lead times depend on color and material availability, but standard materials are usually in stock.
Phase 3: Installation (Day 7-10)
This is the part most people ask about. Here is what a typical installation day looks like:
- Morning: Crew arrives, sets up safety equipment, places tarps and protection around the foundation and landscaping
- Tear-off: Old shingles and underlayment come off. We inspect the decking underneath and replace any rotted or damaged sections.
- Install: Ice and water shield in valleys and at eaves, synthetic underlayment across the entire deck, drip edge, new shingles, ridge vent, pipe boots, and flashing
- Cleanup: Magnetic sweeps for nails, debris removal, and a final walkthrough
Most standard roofs are completed in a single day. Larger or more complex roofs -- steep pitches, multiple dormers, extensive decking repair -- may take two or three days.
Phase 4: Final Inspection and Warranty (Day 10-14)
After installation, we do a quality check and walkthrough with you. If your project was an insurance claim, we also handle the final documentation and supplement submissions.
What Causes Delays?
- Weather: We do not install in rain or high winds. Period. Quality over speed.
- Decking damage: If we find more rot than expected during tear-off, we fix it right. That adds time but saves you money long-term.
- Insurance: If you are going through a claim, the adjuster schedule can add days or weeks to the front end.
- Material availability: Some premium colors or specialty materials may have longer lead times.
The Timeline We Promise
We give you a specific installation date and we hit it. If weather forces a change, we communicate immediately and reschedule within days, not weeks. Get your free estimate and we will give you an exact timeline for your project.