Roof replacements are significant home improvement projects. Naturally, homeowners in New Zealand often have many questions before they begin – especially about timing. One of the most frequent questions our experienced roofing team receives is: “How long does it take to put on a roof?”
Whether you’re building from scratch or replacing your existing roof, the duration depends on several factors, such as the roofing materials you choose, weather conditions, roof complexity, and the size of your home.
How Long Does It Take to Put On a Roof?
Installing a new roof is an involved process, but typically quicker than a replacement because there’s no existing roof to remove. On average, installing a brand-new roof on a standard Auckland home takes around 2-4 days. However, complex designs, larger houses, or specialised roofing systems may require up to a week or longer.
Key factors influencing this timeline include:
- Roof size and pitch
- Roofing materials used
- Availability of materials
- Weather conditions during installation
- Number of roofers working on the project
How Long Does It Take to Replace a Roof?
Replacing a roof usually takes longer than installing one from scratch because it involves additional steps like removing the old roof, inspecting for damage, and preparing the underlying structure. Typically, for an average Auckland home, a full roof replacement can take anywhere between 3-7 days from start to finish.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Removal of old roof: 1-2 days
- Inspection and preparation of roof structure: Half-day to 1 day
- Installation of new roof: 2-4 days
- Finishing touches and site clean-up: Half-day to 1 day
This timeline assumes ideal conditions, but real-world factors often extend it.
Factors That Influence Roof Replacement Timeframes
Many aspects can either speed up or slow down the roofing process:
1. Type of Roofing Material
The choice of roofing material significantly impacts how long your replacement project will take.
- Colorsteel: A popular choice due to its durability and relatively quick installation. Colorsteel roofs usually take about 2-4 days.
- Decramastic Tiles: Lightweight and require careful handling, typically taking 3-5 days for full replacement.
- Concrete Tile Roofs: These heavier tiles require additional labour to install, resulting in slightly longer timelines, around 4-7 days.
- Galvanised Steel: Similar to Colorsteel, typically completed in under a week.
- CF Overlay (Concealed Fixture): A sleek, concealed-fixing option often taking around 3-5 days.
- Asphalt Shingle: Requires more labour-intensive installation, usually 5-7 days for completion.
2. Roof Complexity and Design
A simple, flat or moderately pitched roof is straightforward and quicker to replace. Complex roofs with multiple pitches, dormers, skylights, and intricate valleys take longer due to extra detailing and cutting work.
3. Size of the Roof
Naturally, larger roofs take longer. A typical three-bedroom Auckland home is usually straightforward. In contrast, large, multi-storey homes or commercial buildings may require significantly more time.
4. Structural Integrity and Hidden Issues
When your old roof comes off, unexpected structural issues can appear. Rotting timber and water damage must be addressed before installing new materials. Depending on the extent of damage, these unexpected repairs can add several days to your timeline.
5. Weather Conditions
Weather greatly influences roofing schedules. Heavy rain or strong wind can slow down or halt progress, pushing timelines out by days. Roof replacements require dry conditions whereas installing a roof on a new build is not so weather dependent.
How Long Does It Take Roofers to Replace a Roof?
Another common question is, “How long does it take roofers to complete the job and replace the roof?” The number of roofers on your project directly affects the timeline. A standard residential roofing project in Auckland typically has 3-5 roofers working simultaneously, helping keep timelines within the standard 3-7 day period.
Here’s a brief outline:
- Small home or garage: 2 roofers, completed in 1-2 days.
- Medium-sized house or building: 2-4 roofers, completed in 3-5 days.
- Large or complex residential & commercial roofs: 3-5 roofers, usually completed in about a week.
At Accredited Roofing, we carefully manage teams and schedules to ensure your roof is replaced efficiently, minimising disruption.
Tips for Ensuring a Smooth and Timely Roof Replacement
To help your roofing project run efficiently, consider these tips:
- Schedule your replacement during stable weather seasons: Late spring, summer, or early autumn are usually best in Auckland.
- Have a professional builders pre-inspection: Early identification of structural issues reduces unforeseen delays.
- Clear communication: Working closely with your roofing team ensures smoother scheduling and fewer surprises.
Reliable Roofing Timelines with Accredited Roofing
Replacing your roof is a significant undertaking, but knowing the typical timelines helps manage expectations and plan accordingly. While the average replacement in Auckland is usually within a week, always factor in potential delays for weather or unexpected structural repairs.
At Accredited Roofing, our experienced roofing teams understand Auckland conditions and building regulations thoroughly. We plan carefully, communicate transparently, and manage each stage of your roof replacement efficiently. This ensures your new roof not only meets your expectations but is also delivered within realistic timelines.
If you’re considering a roof replacement or have further questions about timing and roofing materials, contact Accredited Roofing today and ask us “How long does it take to put on a roof?”. We’re here to guide you through every step of your roofing project, ensuring your home or building is protected with minimal disruption.