Deck and underlayment
The roof covering needs a sound substrate and correctly selected layers beneath it.
Service
Roofing
Alex Exteriors plans roof replacement around the deck, underlayment, flashings, ventilation, penetrations, and drainage that determine how the assembly performs.
How we think about the work
Start with the roof that is actually there.
A useful roof assessment looks beyond age. Missing or damaged shingles, previous repairs, soft decking, ventilation, flashing, roof geometry, and interior signs of moisture all influence the right scope.
Replacement is sequenced from the deck outward. Underlayment, ice protection, valleys, penetrations, wall connections, and edge details are established before the final roof covering is installed.
Flashings and transitions
Chimneys, walls, valleys, vents, and edges receive details appropriate to their exposure.
Ventilation and drainage
Intake, exhaust, gutters, and downspouts are reviewed as connected parts of the roof system.
Materials and configurations
Roofing options based on the home and roof geometry
We compare appearance, assembly requirements, roof pitch, complexity, and maintenance—not only the product name.
Architectural asphalt shingles
The common residential choice, available in a wide range of colors, profiles, and performance classifications.
Best considered for: Most pitched residential roofs where value, familiar appearance, and repairability are priorities.
- Product ratings vary
- Deck preparation affects the finished result
- Flashing and ventilation remain separate scope decisions
Designer asphalt shingles
Heavier-profile shingles intended to create more depth and a distinctive roof plane.
Best considered for: Prominent rooflines and homes where the roof is an important architectural feature.
- Higher material cost than standard architectural shingles
- Color and profile should be reviewed at full scale
- Roof complexity affects labor and waste
Standing-seam metal roofing
A long-life roof covering with concealed fasteners and strong visual lines.
Best considered for: Accent roofs or full roofs with appropriate geometry and a preference for metal detailing.
- Requires careful panel and penetration planning
- Snow movement and drainage need consideration
- Trim fabrication is a major part of the finished appearance
A clear sequence
From first look to final walkthrough.
Good exterior work begins before installation. The scope, interfaces, and decision points should be clear enough that the work can move forward without surprises becoming the plan.
Discuss your project- 1
Inspect the roof system
Review visible roof condition, flashings, ventilation, drainage, and accessible interior signs.
- 2
Define the replacement scope
Select the covering and specify tear-off, deck allowance, underlayment, ventilation, flashings, and accessories.
- 3
Tear off and prepare
Protect the property, remove materials as scoped, inspect the deck, and install the new layers in sequence.
- 4
Finish, clean, and review
Complete flashings and drainage details, remove debris and magnetic-sweep the work areas, then review the project.
Relevant work
See the details on real homes.
Dedicated project pages document materials, scope, transitions, and multiple finished views.
Otsego Construction
A modern transitional exterior featuring James Hardie lap siding and panels, dark & white board-and-batten accents, painted cedar brackets, trim, stone detailing, a metal garage roof, and asphalt shingles on the main roof. The mix of materials and strong gable lines gives the home a clean, contemporary look while keeping a classic residential form.
Questions, answered plainly
Roofing FAQs
Project-specific answers depend on the home. These are the useful starting points.
How do I know whether the roof needs replacement?
Age is only one factor. Missing or damaged shingles, widespread granule loss, recurring leaks, soft decking, and failing flashings can justify replacement. An inspection should separate isolated repair needs from system-wide wear.
Will insurance cover storm damage?
Coverage depends on the cause of damage, policy, dates, deductibles, and the insurer’s determination. We can document visible conditions and provide a construction scope, but coverage decisions belong to the carrier.
How long does roof replacement take?
Many straightforward residential roofs can be completed in several working days. Size, pitch, access, material, weather, and deck repairs can extend the schedule.
Do you coordinate gutters and siding with roofing?
Yes. Roof edges, wall intersections, soffit ventilation, fascia, gutters, and downspouts often overlap. Coordinating those items avoids conflicting details and duplicated work.