A roof replacement or major roofing project can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time navigating the process. To help demystify what actually happens, this guide breaks down the start-to-finish roofing process with Holthaus Roofing, a family-oriented company with decades of experience and a commitment to quality craftsmanship and transparent service. From the moment you contact them to the final walk-through, this article explains what homeowners can expect at each stage.


Beginning With a Professional Roof Inspection

Every successful roofing project starts with a thorough inspection. Before any work is scheduled:

  • A Holthaus Roofing professional will examine your existing roof to evaluate its condition and identify areas of wear, damage, or age-related deterioration.
  • They’ll look for cracked, curled, or missing shingles, flashing issues, and other vulnerabilities that could allow moisture into your home.
  • A detailed assessment helps determine whether you need a simple repair or a full roof replacement.

This inspection ensures that your investment aligns with your home’s actual needs — a principle Holthaus emphasizes in its homeowner-first approach.


Developing a Plan & Choosing Materials

Once the inspection is complete and the scope of work is defined, the next step is project planning. This includes:

  • Reviewing material options such as architectural asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or other systems suited to your home.
  • Discussing material performance, style preferences, and expected lifespan so you can make an informed decision.
  • Preparing a clear, written estimate that outlines what will be done, the timeline, and cost expectations.

Holthaus Roofing works with certified industry materials and manufacturers, offering options that balance durability, aesthetics, and warranty support for both residential and commercial projects.


Scheduling & Permits

After the plan and materials are set:

  • Holthaus Roofing assists with securing any local permits required for your roofing project. This step ensures that all work complies with local building codes and regulatory standards.
  • The roofing crew coordinates a schedule that accounts for weather, material delivery, and the best timing for your home’s needs.
  • Clear communication about the project timeline helps homeowners anticipate start and end dates.

Taking care of permits and coordination behind the scenes reduces stress and keeps the project on track.


Tear-Off & Preparation of the Roof Deck

Once work begins, the old roofing materials are typically removed to expose the roof deck — the foundational structure beneath the shingles. During this phase:

  • Existing shingles, underlayment, and flashing are stripped away.
  • The roof deck is inspected for damage like rot or structural concerns.
  • If any issues are found, they are repaired before the new roofing system is installed.

Preparing a clean and sound deck is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your new roof.


Installing the New Roofing System

With the roof deck ready, the team moves on to installation:

  1. Underlayment: A secondary moisture barrier is laid down over the deck to help protect against leaks.
  2. Ice and Water Shield: Critical in colder climates, this membrane goes in vulnerable areas like roof edges to enhance resistance to ice dams and water intrusion.
  3. Flashing & Ventilation: Properly installed metal flashings around chimneys, vents, and skylights keep water out at transition points, while ventilation components promote airflow for energy efficiency and longer roof life.
  4. Shingles or Chosen Material: Your selected roofing material is installed with precision — whether architectural shingles, metal panels, or another specified system.

This step is the core of the project, where craftsmanship and attention to detail directly influence performance and appearance.


Cleanup & Final Walk-Through

A quality roofing company doesn’t stop when the last shingle is laid. After installation:

  • The crew meticulously cleans the job site, removing debris and using magnets to collect stray nails and metal fasteners.
  • A final walk-through with you ensures that everything meets expectations, and team members address any questions you might have about your new roof — including maintenance tips and warranty details.
  • You receive important documentation about care recommendations and warranty coverage to protect your investment long term.

This thorough closing step reinforces peace of mind and satisfaction with the finished project.


Maintenance & Longevity After Installation

Even after your new roof is in place, ongoing attention helps it last as long as possible:

  • Regular inspections — ideally annually or after severe weather — can catch small issues early.
  • Keeping gutters clean prevents water buildup that can stress shingles and underlayers.
  • Monitoring attic ventilation and insulation contributes to a balanced roof system that helps prevent ice dams and heat loss.

Holthaus Roofing emphasizes the importance of proactive care — because the best roof is one that continues protecting your home without surprises.


Why a Clear Roofing Process Matters

Understanding the steps in a roofing project from start to finish empowers homeowners to feel confident and informed. Holthaus Roofing’s emphasis on honest assessments, transparent communication, and quality workmanship means you know what to expect at every turn — not just during installation but in ongoing roof performance and care.

Resources:

‘https://holthausroofing.com/

ARMA | The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association