Despite the vital role that a roof plays in a home, many property owners tend to overlook the need for timely roof replacement. Reroofing a house often seems like a long and expensive process, so many try to put it off as long as possible.
But how long should it take to reroof a house? The amount of time it takes to replace a roof depends on a number of factors. It can be anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Let’s take a look at aspects that may determine this!
Factors affecting project duration
Weather
This might seem surprising, but one of the biggest factors influencing how long a reroof takes is which season you choose to do it in. The best time to schedule the project is in summer or spring, when the weather is milder. If you decide to do it in winter, you should be prepared for it to take longer. That’s because in cold weather, some roofing materials may have difficulty adhering and sealing, and you need to take additional steps to ensure the job is done correctly.
It’s also not recommended to tackle the project during rain or snow, not only because snow-covered or icy roofs are dangerous for contractors, but also because it can make it challenging to achieve a good result.
The size of your roof
Another major factor that impacts the total time of your reroof is the square footage. As you can imagine, the larger your roofing area is, the longer it will take to complete the job.
So how can you calculate the square footage of your roof? Some homeowners think it’s the same as their home’s; however, that’s not true. Usually, the steeper your roof pitch, the larger the area is.
The type of roofing material you choose
Not all roofing is equal. Some materials require a longer installation time due to more complex methods used. Asphalt shingles, which are a common choice for homes in the U.S., have the easiest installation, so it’s possible to finish the project in one to three days, depending on the size of your roof.
However, if you decide to use a different material, the process will be longer. For instance, wooden shingles typically require around six to eight days to be installed, while slate tiles typically require five to seven days.
Keep in mind that material availability also plays a role. If you choose less common shingles or tiles, or have a custom order, there might be a longer waiting time. That’s why it’s so important to discuss all the details with your contractor.
The accessibility of your roof
To complete a roof replacement, it’s crucial to have good accessibility to your roof. Otherwise, it will be difficult to tear off the old roof and get the new materials on it.
If your roof has poor accessibility due to landscaping, fencing, or neighboring homes being too close in proximity, don’t panic yet. It’s not the end of the world! However, it means it will take more time to complete the reroof.
Historical significance of your property
If your property is listed as a historical landmark, you might be required to get a special permit for your reroof project, depending on local regulations. For example, in Virginia, you’ll need a permit for most roof replacements. In Maryland, the rules vary in different areas. This can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks. That’s why it’s critical to submit planning applications as early as possible.
Working with older homes is also more time-consuming because you need to approach them with extra care to maintain their historical and structural integrity.
Structural damage
One of the most common issues that can prolong roof replacement timelines is structural damage. If your roof only needs the shingles replaced, it can be completed fairly quickly. However, if your contractor team notices structural damage to the roof deck or other parts of your roof during the process, it will take longer to complete the work.
Recap: How long should it take to reroof a house
A roof replacement is one of the most significant home improvement projects that most homeowners will ever face. The good news is that most reroofs can be done within a day or two (considering the weather is good and the project doesn’t have too much complexity).
However, it’s essential to recognize that every roof is unique. Sometimes, the roof replacement process may reveal the unexpected, which can extend the timeline. That’s why it’s so critical to work with professional contractors who can provide a realistic project completion time and have clear, open communication.
If you’re planning a roof replacement, we’d love to help you! Get in touch with our team at American Home Contractors today.
Fact Checked by Lita Legzdina on 08/18/2025