How long does it take to fully replace a roof?

For a typical semi-detached or detached house, a full roof replacement usually takes somewhere between a few days and a couple of weeks once work starts, weather permitting. A straightforward re-cover is at the quicker end; a complex roof with several pitches, dormers or chimneys takes longer.

The timescale depends on the size and shape of the roof, whether the timbers underneath need any attention, the weather, and how much needs doing around chimneys and valleys. Scaffolding usually goes up a day or two before the roofers start.

A good roofer will not rush a roof to hit a deadline, because the detailing around chimneys, valleys and verges is exactly where a rushed job leaks later. It is better to allow a little weather contingency than to have corners cut.

Before work starts you should expect a clear idea of how long your roof will take and what happens if the weather turns. We will always give you a realistic timeframe rather than an optimistic one.