What to Expect During a Roof Replacement: Our Process Explained

Replacing your roof is a major investment, and if you’ve never done it before, the process can feel overwhelming. What happens after you sign a contract? How long will it take? Who’s managing the permits, cleanup, or solar add-ons?

At Sun Vault Roofing, we believe in full transparency. That’s why we walk every homeowner through exactly what to expect during a roof replacement, from your first conversation with our team to the final inspection and warranty paperwork. Whether you're upgrading due to storm damage, age, or a solar roofing opportunity, this guide lays out every step so you feel confident and informed before the first shingle is even removed.

Step 1 – It Starts with a Conversation - What to expect during a roof replacement

Your roofing journey begins with an easy, no-pressure conversation. Whether you call, fill out our website form, or scan a QR code at a local event, you’ll connect directly with our Wisconsin-based team.

We’ll talk about:

• Your current roof and goals (repair, replacement, solar?)

• Any problem areas you’ve noticed

• Your energy use if you're exploring solar options

  
  

This first step is about understanding your needs, what lifecycle stage is your roof in and making sure you feel informed before we ever step on a ladder. It sets the tone for what to expect during a roof replacement: clear communication, no surprises, and expert guidance from the start.

Example of rotted fascia that has become a home for wildlife

Step 2 – Roof & Attic Inspection: What We Look For

Most full replacements and complex repairs begin with a physical, on-site inspection. This is one of the most important steps in understanding what to expect during a roof replacement. In some cases, like unsafe conditions or steep heights, we may use drones or satellite tools.

We always inspect:

• Your roof surface and structure

• Gutters, soffit, and fascia (they’re part of the roofing system)

• Attic conditions (especially for older roofs, leaks, or solar considerations)

  
  

What about attic inspections?

• If considering solar, we always inspect the attic

• We generally recommend an attic inspection if your roof is aging or leaking

• For the most accurate estimate based on ventilation and decking condition we need to inspect the attic

  
  

Prefer to keep things exterior-only? No problem - just let us know in advance.

(Left) Examples of findings from a roof inspection. Popped nail which can be an entry point for water. Damaged shingles are also visible, possibly from hail damage that increases the pace of shingle deterioration. (Right) Example of findings from a roof inspection. Lifted shingle, likely letting water in. Possibly from wind or advanced age that has caused the bonding agent between shingles to fail

Step 3 – Your Detailed Proposal: Options & Transparency

Depending on your project type, we’ll follow up with:

• Simple repairs: Verbal estimate on the spot, followed by a written summary

• Full replacements: 1–2 business days to process satellite measurements and material specs

• Solar proposals: 3–4 business days to model layout, output, and projected savings based on your specific energy usage patterns and roof layout

  
  

Your proposal includes:

• Inspection photos

• Repair vs. replacement options

• Product and upgrade recommendations

• Solar production modeling (if applicable)

  
  

We’re happy to hop on a call or walk through the details in person.

Step 4 – Scheduling & Permitting

Once you’re ready to move forward:

• Most roof installs are scheduled within 2 weeks of your deposit

• Permitting is handled by us (turnaround time varies by municipality, and usually takes less than a week)

• Solar projects take longer due to utility interconnection applications and electrical permitting, but we manage the paperwork

  
  

As a Wisconsin based roofing contractor we know what to look for when it comes to the best weather conditions to complete your project. We monitor weather closely and stay in touch if forecasted storms may affect your timeline.

Step 5 – Installation Day: What to Expect

Most residential roofs (including solar) are installed in under 1 day to minimize disruption. Depending on the scope, other work (gutters, soffit/fascia, solar wiring) may be scheduled separately. Our crews install both solar and non-solar roofing, eliminating the need for multiple teams. Specialty crews may be used for products like copper gutters.

Here’s what we do to ensure a smooth installation, so you know exactly what to expect during a roof replacement:

• Prep your home with tarps and plywood to protect landscaping and siding

• Keep you updated throughout the day

• Use magnetic sweeps and detailed cleanup practices

  
  

Do you work from home or have pets? Roofing is loud. We recommend planning ahead for your comfort and the safety of your furry friends. You do not need to be home during the project if you do not wish to be.

Solar customers: Our electricians typically return after roofing is complete to install your inverter, connect to your utility, and activate your system.

Step 6 – Final Walkthrough, Warranty & Incentives

After installation, we walk your property with you to:

• Review the completed work

• Inspect for debris and jobsite cleanup

• Answer questions about your roof or solar system

• Share care and maintenance tips

  
  

We handle warranty registration with the manufacturer. Your paperwork will arrive in a few weeks.

If you went solar:

• We submit your Wisconsin Focus on Energy rebate paperwork (learn more)

• We support you in filing your Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (see IRS info)

• We offer ongoing maintenance support if your system stops producing. Just call us at 608-608-1082

Step 7 – Stay Connected: Reviews & Referrals

We build our business on trust and referrals. If we earned your confidence:

• Leave a Google review, Yelp review, or BBB rating

• Refer a friend and earn $500 for a roofing referral, or $1,000 for a solar roof referral* 

  *Qualified customers contact us at 608-608-1082

Our commitment doesn’t end at installation. Whether you need help in 3 months or 3 years, we’re just a phone call away, 608-608-1082.