Reroofing your home is a big project, and one of the first things homeowners want to know is: how long is it going to take? Most California homeowners are surprised by how quick the process is. The average reroof wraps up in less than a week, but the exact schedule depends on your roof’s size, materials, and the weather. This guide gives homeowners a clear picture of what to expect and how to prepare to keep the project moving smoothly.
How Long Does it Take to Install a New Roof?
Most reroofing projects can be completed in just a few days. A typical single-family home with an asphalt shingle roof usually takes two to three days from start to finish. Complex projects with steep pitches, multiple levels, or heavy materials like tile or metal can extend the schedule to a week or two, but with the right contractor, even big projects stay on schedule.
Weather can also affect your reroofing timeline. Rain, heatwaves, and seasonal winds can all push back a start date or slow the work. Crews can’t start if there’s any risk of rain, since the roof must stay dry during installation. A good contractor will monitor forecasts and keep you updated if changes are needed.
Factors That Impact Your Roofing Timeline
Every roof is different, and a few key details can shape how long the job takes:
Size and Design
A small, simple roof takes less time than a larger layout with multiple angles or levels. Steeper pitches or added features like skylights and chimneys make the job more complex and can extend the schedule.
Roofing Materials
Asphalt shingles, sometimes called composite shingles, are the most common choice in California and also the fastest to install. Tile and metal require more precision, so they take longer.
Current Condition
If your old roof has hidden water damage or structural issues, repairs will add time. While these unexpected repairs can extend your timeline, they're essential for a quality installation that will protect your home for decades.
Weather
Keep in mind that Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. Crews may need to pause during rain, intense heat, or heavy winds to maintain quality and safety throughout the project. A common mistake is that homeowners procrastinate and then as the rainy season starts, they finally reach out to roofing contractors. At that point, good companies are booked out months. So it is important to plan ahead well before the rainy season starts.
Solar Panels
If you already have solar panels, removing and reinstalling them adds one or two days to your timeline. If you are planning to go solar soon, it’s best to handle both projects at once so you don’t have to remove your solar panels in order to replace the roofing underneath. You can read more about this in our blog.
The Reroofing Process Step by Step
Here’s how the process typically works so you can have an idea of what to expect each day:
- Preparation and delivery. Materials arrive on-site a few days before work begins. A dumpster is also delivered for debris.
- Old roof removal. Crews strip away shingles or tiles and check for hidden damage.
- Repairs and inspection. Any weakened decking or water damage is fixed before new materials go down.
- New installation. Shingles, tiles, or metal panels are installed, along with flashing and underlayment.
- Cleanup and walk-through. Crews finish with a final inspection to make sure everything is secure and watertight.
If you’re considering a reroofing project this year you can find more details on materials, styles, and durability for California homes here.
Tips for a Smooth Project
Getting your home ready before the crew arrives helps the project stay on track and run more efficiently. Here are some things you can do to prep:
- Clear driveway and yard for dumpster, trucks, and materials
- Move fragile items off shelves or walls since roof work vibrations can sometimes knock them loose
- Make arrangements for pets, since the noise of construction can be unsettling.
- Give neighbors a heads-up about the work and potential noise.
- Plan work-from-home schedules accordingly
With a little preparation, you’ll help the crew work efficiently and ensure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible—for you, your home, and your neighbors.
If solar panels are part of your setup, you’ll want to check out our blog about removing and reinstalling solar panels where we walk through what to expect and how to prepare.
Why Reroofing + Solar Go Hand-in-Hand
You need a new roof. Maybe the shingles are curling, or you've spotted a leak. That's not optional. But what if you could turn that necessary expense into an opportunity? You could add solar and start saving on electricity bills immediately, protect yourself from decades of rising utility costs, and boost your home's value. When you're already tearing off the old roof and bringing in a crew, it's the perfect time to add solar panels that pay you back for decades. When you're already committing to a roof replacement project, why not knock out both?
You don't want to install a 25-year solar system on a roof that'll need replacing in 10. That means paying to remove all those panels, reroof your house, then put everything back. Save yourself the hassle and do both projects together. When you choose Citadel, we coordinate your roofing and solar projects from start to finish. Your new roof goes on, then the solar panels get installed right after. We keep all of our operations under one roof with in-house expert teams, so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors or timelines.
Do you already have panels up there? We can work with your existing solar setup. Learn more about removing and reinstalling solar panels during a roof replacement here. If you're still deciding on timing, check out our guide on whether you should replace your roof before going solar.
Picking the Right Roofing Partner
A reroofing project runs smoother when you have the right partner on your side. Clear communication, honest timelines, and experienced crews make all the difference.
You want someone who knows California's building codes inside and out. Earthquake and wind requirements aren't suggestions. A contractor experienced with these regulations won't stumble through permits or delay your project with preventable issues. They'll also know how to work through unpredictable weather without compromising quality or safety.
Technical expertise only gets you so far. The best contractors will keep you in the loop from your first conversation to the final cleanup. They give you realistic timelines upfront and explain what could slow things down.
We've spent over 30 years helping California homeowners. Our in-house crews handle everything from permits to cleanup, which means you're not dealing with a different subcontractor every other day. One team. Clear answers. Quality craftsmanship.
Learn more about why California homeowners choose Citadel for their roofing projects.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
How long does a roof replacement usually take?
Two to three days for a simple asphalt roof, up to two weeks for larger or more complex projects.
What factors can make reroofing take longer?
Roof size, material type, hidden damage, and weather are the main drivers.
Can weather or permits delay the project?
Yes, rain and wind can pause work. Local permitting also plays a role, but an experienced contractor will manage the process.
How should I prepare my home for roofing work?
Clear driveways, make pet and WFH arrangements, and notify neighbors.
How do solar panels affect the reroofing timeline?
If you already have panels, removing and reinstalling them adds a day or two. If you're planning to add solar soon anyway, doing both projects together means you avoid double labor costs and start saving on electricity bills right away.
Plan Your Roof Replacement with Confidence
Reroofing a home in California doesn’t have to drag on. With the right contractor, you’ll have a new roof in just a few days, even when weather or repairs are part of the process.
Citadel Roofing & Solar has built its reputation on efficient timelines, durable materials, and long-lasting results. Whether you’re replacing worn shingles or planning for a complete roof and energy upgrade, our team is here to guide you through the process with expertise and care.
Ready to start your roof replacement project? Contact Citadel today for a personalized timeline and estimate. We'll assess your specific situation and provide a clear roadmap for protecting your home with a quality roof that lasts for decades.
