Residential Roofing: What to Expect During a Roof Tear-Off

If your home in Gainesville or nearby areas like Cumming, Dawsonville, or Flowery Branch is due for a new roof, you might hear the term "roof tear-off". Here’s what that really means—and why it matters.

What Is a Roof Tear-Off?

A roof tear-off means removing your existing shingles (and often the underlayment) down to the decking, before installing a brand-new roofing system.

It’s the opposite of a “layover,” where new shingles are placed over old ones. At L&L Roofing, we rarely recommend layovers—and here’s why.

Why a Tear-Off Is the Smarter Move

A full tear-off allows our crew to:

• Inspect the deck for hidden rot, mold, or structural issues.

• Meet Georgia’s residential building codes, which often prohibit multiple layers of roofing.

• Provide longer-lasting protection by starting with a clean surface.

• Ensure full manufacturer warranty coverage on your new roof.

In short: It’s about doing the job right the first time.

Step-by-Step: How L&L Roofing Does a Tear-Off

Here’s what you can expect when our team shows up for your residential roof replacement in Gainesville:

1. Property Protection First
   We tarp landscaping, move furniture, and use magnetic rollers to catch nails. We treat your home like it’s our own.

2. Careful Removal of Shingles
   Using specialized tear-off tools, we strip all existing shingles and underlayment down to the wood decking.

3. Thorough Deck Inspection
   If we find soft spots, moisture damage, or missing sheathing, we repair it on the spot using code-compliant materials.

4. Install Ice & Water Barrier (as needed)
   For homes with eaves or valleys, we follow IBHS and Georgia code recommendations for waterproofing underlayment.

5. Fresh Underlayment & Drip Edge
   We apply a synthetic or felt underlayment plus corrosion-resistant drip edge metal to prevent wind-driven water intrusion.

6. New Shingle or Metal Roofing Installation
   Depending on your choice—whether it's architectural shingles or a standing seam metal roof—we install it with care and precision.

7. Clean-Up and Final Walkthrough
   We magnet-sweep your yard, double-check all flashing, and walk you through the finished work.

Why Homeowners Choose L&L Roofing for Tear-Off Jobs

We’ve replaced roofs after storms, old age, and even squirrel invasions. Our clients repeatedly mention our honesty, clear communication, and quality craftsmanship.

When you choose L&L Roofing, you’re choosing:

• Faith-driven service

• Honest inspections and real solutions

• Code-compliant installations

• Licensed and insured pros who clean up like we were never there

FAQs About Roof Tear-Offs in Gainesville

How long does a tear-off take?
Most residential tear-offs and installations take 1–2 days, weather permitting.

Can I stay in my house during the tear-off?
Yes. It’ll be noisy, but safe.

What if you find rotten wood?
We replace it immediately and explain every repair. No surprise charges.

Is a tear-off required by code?
Yes, if your roof already has multiple layers or if there’s visible damage. We follow IRC 2021 and Georgia code standards.

Need a Roof Tear-Off in Gainesville or Surrounding Areas?
We’re ready to do it right. Call L&L Roofing at (770) 874-0372 or visit llroofs.com to schedule your free consultation.