Replacing your roof sounds like a major project, and it is. But it usually moves faster than homeowners expect.
If you’re in Northern Colorado and facing storm damage, timing matters. You may be racing against the next weather system, an insurance deadline, or a home sale. So here’s what roof replacement actually looks like, from the first call to the last nail.
We’ll break down each step, what affects the timeline, and what you can do to keep it moving smoothly.
The Full Timeline: Roof Replacement from Start to Finish
Most residential roof replacements take 1 to 3 days of actual work. But the full process, from scheduling to cleanup, can take 1 to 2 weeks, depending on a few key factors. Here’s how it usually plays out:
Step 1: Initial Call and Inspection (1–3 Days)
You call the roofing company and schedule a free inspection. After a storm, this step can happen within 24–72 hours depending on demand.
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Step 2: Roof Assessment and Quote (1–2 Days)
Once the roofer inspects your roof, they’ll send a written quote. If insurance is involved, the roofer may coordinate with your adjuster. Most homeowners receive a full report within 48 hours.
Step 3: Materials Ordered + Scheduling (3–5 Days)
After you approve the estimate, materials are ordered. Shingles, flashing, underlayment, vents, all of it has to be sourced and delivered. Scheduling the install depends on:
- Weather forecast
- Crew availability
- HOA or permit approvals (if needed)
Step 4: Roof Tear-Off + Installation (1–3 Days)
This is the part most people imagine when they think “roof replacement.” According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, most residential roofs can be completed in a matter of days, depending on size and complexity.
| Home Size | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Small roof (under 2,000 sq ft) | 1 day |
| Medium roof (2,000–3,500 sq ft) | 1–2 days |
| Large roof or complex design | 2–3 days |
If your home has steep slopes, multiple dormers, or multiple layers to remove, that adds time. But for most asphalt shingle roofs, crews work fast, especially if the weather holds.
Step 5: Cleanup and Final Walkthrough (Same Day)
After installation, the crew handles:
- Debris removal
- Magnet rolling for nails
- Final walk-through with the homeowner
This usually happens the same day the roof is finished. You get a clean yard, a clean roofline, and a warranty document in hand.
What Variables Can Slow Things Down?
Even the best crews can’t control:
- Weather — Rain, snow, or high winds can pause work
- Insurance delays — Adjuster appointments or claim approvals can drag out timelines
- Material shortages — Specialty shingles or colors may take longer to ship
- Permits or HOA — Some areas require approvals that take a few extra days. Larimer County provides details on roofing permit requirements here.
Most delays happen before installation starts. Once crews are on your roof, it usually moves quickly.
Why Choose On Target Roofing for Your Roof Replacement?
There’s no shortage of roofing companies in Northern Colorado. But few combine local experience, honest pricing, and fast turnaround like On Target Roofing. Here’s what sets us apart:
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We know storm damage: Hail and wind aren’t side projects for us. They’re our core focus. We’ve replaced hundreds of roofs across Fort Collins, Loveland, and beyond after Colorado storms.
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No high-pressure sales: We don’t upsell, overpromise, or rush you into decisions. You get a clear scope of work, in writing, with pricing that holds.
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Fast scheduling, done right: Our crews are fast—but never sloppy. Most roofs are finished in one to two days, with cleanup done before we leave.
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Insurance claim support: If you’re filing a claim, we’ll walk you through it. We’ve worked with every major carrier and know how to document storm damage clearly.
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Real warranties, real people: We back our work. And when you call us, you speak with someone here—not an out-of-state call center.
Think you need a Roof Replacement? Get your FREE roof inspection to get started:
Frequently Asked Questions – Roof Damage
Q: Can a roof really be replaced in one day?
A: Yes. For average-sized homes with asphalt shingles, experienced crews can tear off and replace a roof in a single day—weather permitting.
Q: Should I stay home during the replacement?
A: You can, but it’s loud. Most homeowners leave for the day or stay inside. You don’t need to be there the whole time, but be available by phone.
Q: What if it rains in the middle of the job?
A: Crews monitor the weather and won’t start unless they can finish or secure the roof before storms. If rain starts unexpectedly, they’ll tarp everything and return ASAP.
Q: How long should I wait after a storm before replacing the roof?
A: Act quickly. Schedule an inspection within 48 hours, especially during hail season. Insurance deadlines vary, and damage can worsen fast.