Our Process: Asphalt Shingle Roof Installation

Katelyn Lewis • June 28, 2022

How is an asphalt shingle roof properly installed? So glad you asked! 

Let's walk through the process together, using aerial photos from a recent Retex roof replacement project in the Surreywood neighborhood of North Chesterfield, VA.


Here's our simple process:


1: Tear off the existing shingles, starting from the ridge and moving down the roof.


A drone image of a RETEX roof replacement in North Chesterfield VA 23235. Image shows tear-off step.

2: Assess and replace any decking that's damaged, rotten, or soft. At this step, we also cut along the ridge so we could install a ridge vent, enabling passive attic ventilation for this home.

A drone image of a RETEX roof replacement in North Chesterfield VA 23235. Image shows damaged plywood replacement step.

3: Install aluminum drip edge, Ice & Water Shield, and synthetic underlayment. This layer will protect your roof decking! We also install any skylights, pipe collars around plumbing vent pipes, and flashing at this stage.

A drone image of a RETEX roof replacement in North Chesterfield VA 23235. Image shows underlayment installation step.

4, 5 & 6: Transfer shingles to roof and begin shingle installation.

7: Smile at the awesome new roof and clean up!

A drone image of a RETEX roof replacement in North Chesterfield VA 23235. Image shows after installation.

Our crews also go the extra mile to clean up your yard of debris.


We run a nail rake multiple times to ensure a clean and safe environment, and once everything's looking good we will haul away and dispose of the debris (this final photo was captured post-cleanup, pre-dumpster pickup).


Want to discuss your roofing project? Call us at 804-442-3314 or click the button below to get in touch with us.

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