New Roof Installation: What to Expect from Start to Finish

A new roof is one of the most significant investments you will make in your home. Done well, it will protect your property for 30–50 years or more. Done poorly, it can cause problems for years to come. Understanding the process before you commit helps you make the right decisions and choose the right contractor.

Here is everything you need to know about new roof installation.

When Is a New Roof Necessary?

Not every roofing problem requires a full replacement. Our team will always assess whether repairs are a viable option first. However, a new roof is usually the right choice when:

• The roof is more than 30–40 years old and showing widespread deterioration
• More than 25–30% of the tiles or slates are damaged or missing
• The roof timbers (battens, rafters) are rotting or structurally compromised
• There have been repeated leaks despite multiple repairs
• You are undertaking a major renovation or extension

Choosing Your Roofing Material

The material you choose affects the look, cost, weight, and longevity of your new roof.

Concrete tiles — The most common choice for modern UK homes. Durable, affordable, and available in a wide range of colours and profiles. Typically last 30–50 years.

Clay tiles — Traditional and attractive, particularly suited to period properties. More expensive than concrete but can last 60–100 years with proper maintenance.

Natural slate — Premium appearance and exceptional longevity (100+ years). Heavier than tiles, so the roof structure must be assessed. Higher initial cost but outstanding long-term value.

Fibre cement slate — A more affordable alternative to natural slate, with a similar appearance. Typically lasts 30–40 years.

We will advise on the most appropriate material for your property, taking into account the existing structure, your budget, and any planning requirements (particularly important in conservation areas).

The Installation Process

1. Scaffolding

Safe working at height requires proper scaffolding. This is erected before work begins and remains in place until the job is complete.

2. Stripping the Old Roof

The existing tiles, battens, and felt are stripped back to the bare rafters. This gives us the opportunity to inspect the roof structure thoroughly and replace any damaged timbers.

3. Structural Repairs

Any rotten or damaged rafters, purlins, or ridge boards are replaced at this stage. It is far more cost-effective to address structural issues now than after the new roof is on.

4. New Underlay

A breathable membrane underlay is laid over the rafters. This provides a secondary barrier against wind-driven rain and allows moisture vapour to escape from the roof space.

5. Battening

Treated timber battens are fixed horizontally across the rafters at the correct gauge (spacing) for the chosen tile or slate.

6. Tiling or Slating

The tiles or slates are fixed from the eaves upwards, with each course overlapping the one below. Ridge tiles, hip tiles, and valley tiles are bedded and pointed in mortar or fixed with dry-fix systems.

7. Flashings and Leadwork

Lead or aluminium flashings are fitted around chimneys, skylights, and abutments to create a watertight seal.

8. Guttering

New fascia boards and guttering are typically fitted as part of a full re-roof.

9. Clean-Up and Inspection

All waste materials are removed, and a final inspection is carried out to ensure everything is watertight and finished to a high standard.

How Long Does It Take?

A typical semi-detached or terraced house can be re-roofed in 3–5 days. Larger or more complex roofs may take 1–2 weeks. We will give you a realistic timescale before work begins.

Get a Free Quote

Our new roof installation team covers Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk. We work on all property types and sizes, from small terraced houses to large commercial buildings.

Call us on 07878 827 758 or use our contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation survey and quote.