There is more to your roof than just the shingles. Your roof is made up of various roofing materials that together form one roofing system. Each part of your roof helps keep you, your loved ones, and your property safe from harsh weather. Therefore, your roofing should be able to withstand years of pounding rains, blazing sun, and snow. 

As a homeowner, you will at some point have to replace a damaged roof. Although you may not have to replace all roofing parts when installing new roofing, sometimes it may be necessary to replace all roofing components. Here are four important steps to follow when you need to replace a damaged roof.

1. Get Rid of the Damaged Roof Top

Before installing your new roof, your roofer will first remove the damaged one. They'll use a shingle fork to remove the damaged shingle roofing material. If yours is a metal rooftop, your roofer will use a drill to remove the panels, fasteners, and ridges.

2. Check the Flashing

After clearing away the damaged roof, your roofer will examine the roof flashing. This is the metal installed in any section where roofing material is attached to the chimney and walls. Roof flashing helps to stop water from seeping through. However, getting a replacement roof doesn't mean that you will also have to replace your flashing.

If your flashing is rusted and damaged and its integrity has been compromised, then it will have to be changed. Normally, valley flashing should always be replaced because it's exposed to more abuse than the rest.

3. Install the Underlayment

Even when a roof is installed properly, some water will still seep through your roofing material. The underlayment should also be replaced during roof replacement because it helps catch water before it can seep through to the framing. This water can easily cause rot due to dampness. Because the underlayment is your deck's last line of defense, ensure that you invest in durable roofing underlayment.

4. Install the New Shingles

Shingles are the top part of your roofing that is visible from the outside. To install a new roof, your roofer will use the manufacturer's guidelines. Normally, starter shingles have to be installed at the sides and the bottom. All rows should also be staggered to prevent the shingles from letting water through.

Replacing an old or damaged roof is an important home maintenance step. While you may be concerned about the roof installation process, understanding the steps your installation team will follow will make you a part of the new roof installation. Contact a company like Select Exteriors to learn more.