Most roof replacements in Columbus take 1-3 days to complete. A typical single-family home with a straightforward roof line takes 1-2 days, while larger homes or complex roof designs may require 3 days. Weather and unexpected repairs can extend this timeline.
As roofing contractors serving Central Ohio since 1979, we've replaced thousands of roofs and understand that homeowners want clear expectations. Here's exactly what affects your timeline and what to expect during the process.
Typical Timeline by Home Size
For homes in Columbus, Dublin, Westerville, and other Central Ohio communities, here's what we typically see:
| Home Size | Roof Squares* | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 1,500 sq ft) | 15-20 squares | 1 day |
| Average (1,500-2,500 sq ft) | 20-30 squares | 1-2 days |
| Large (2,500-4,000 sq ft) | 30-45 squares | 2-3 days |
| Very Large (4,000+ sq ft) | 45+ squares | 3+ days |
*One roofing "square" equals 100 square feet of roof area.
Factors That Affect Duration
Several factors can extend or shorten your project timeline:
Roof Complexity
A simple gable roof with few penetrations can be completed faster than a complex roof with multiple valleys, dormers, skylights, and chimneys. Each of these features requires careful flashing work that takes additional time.
Many older homes in Worthington, Bexley, and German Village have architecturally interesting rooflines that require more detailed work, butthe results are worth the extra time.
Roof Pitch (Steepness)
Steeper roofs require safety equipment and slower, more careful work. Roofs with a pitch over 8:12 (about 35 degrees) take significantly longer than low-slope roofs because crews must work more deliberately.
Decking Condition
We can't know the full condition of your roof decking until we remove the old shingles. If we discover rotted or damaged plywood or boards, these must be replaced before new shingles can be installed.
In homes built before 1980, we often find original board sheathing instead of plywood. If extensive replacement is needed, this can add half a day to a day to your project.
Number of Shingle Layers
Ohio code allows a maximum of two shingle layers. If your roof already has two layers, we must do a complete tear-off before installing new shingles, addingtime to the project.
Weather Conditions
Central Ohio weather is unpredictable. We monitor forecasts carefully and won't start a project if rain is likely. If weather delays occur mid-project, we'll secure your roof with tarps and return as soon as conditions allow.
What to Expect Each Day
Day 1: Tear-Off and Preparation
- 7:00-8:00 AM: Crew arrives, sets up equipment, places tarps and boards to protect landscaping
- Morning: Remove old shingles and underlayment, inspect decking
- Afternoon: Replace any damaged decking, install ice and water shield at eaves, begin underlayment
This is the loudest day. You'll hear the impact of shingles being removed and debris hitting the dumpster. Most homeowners find it's easier to be away during tear-off if possible.
Day 2: Installation
- Morning: Complete underlayment, install drip edge and starter shingles
- Midday: Install field shingles working from bottom to top
- Afternoon: Install ridge cap, flash all penetrations (vents, pipes, chimney)
For average-sized homes, we often complete installation on Day 2. Larger or complex roofs may extend into Day 3.
Final Day: Completion and Cleanup
- Complete any remaining shingle installation
- Final quality inspection by crew foreman
- Thorough cleanup including magnetic sweeps for nails
- Walk-through with homeowner
We're serious about cleanup. Our crews run magnetic nail sweepers across your yard and driveway multiple times. Your property should look better than when we started.
How Weather Delays Work in Central Ohio
We won't install roofing materials in the rain because properadhesion requires dry conditions. Spring in Columbus (March-May) can be particularly unpredictable, so we build flexibility into our scheduling.
If we need to pause mid-project:
- We'll secure your roof with tarps to prevent water intrusion
- All materials are covered and protected
- We'll resume work as soon as weather permits, typicallythe next dry day
How to Prepare Your Home
A little preparation helps the project go smoothly:
- Move vehicles: Park cars away from the house to avoid falling debris
- Clear the perimeter: Move patio furniture, grills, and potted plants away from the house
- Protect the attic: Cover stored items with sheets. Vibrationcan shake loose dust
- Warn the neighbors: Let them know there will be noise for 1-3 days
- Secure pets: The noise and activity can be stressful for pets. Considerkeeping them inside or away
- Plan for noise: If you work from home, consider working elsewhere on tear-off day
Get an Accurate Timeline for Your Home
Every roof is different. During your free estimate, we'll assess your specific roof and give you a realistic timeline based on its size, complexity, and condition. We take pride in setting accurate expectations, anddelivering on them.
Four generations of our family have been in the roofing business since 1979. We understand that a roof replacement disrupts your life, and we work efficiently to minimize that disruption while never cutting corners on quality.