5 Things To Know About Your Roof Replacement In Minneapolis and St. Paul

Are you thinking about replacing your roof?

Maybe it’s due to storm damage, you’re getting your home ready to sell, or your roof’s lifespan is simply up. Whatever the reason, going into the process with a clear understanding of what to expect can make all the difference.

Living in the Twin Cities means your home faces unique challenges, from harsh winters to humid summers. A roof replacement isn’t just about function—it’s about safety, style, and long-term peace of mind.

Let’s walk through what you need to know to make your roof replacement a success.

Key Takeaways

• Signs of your roof degrading, such as balding shingles, can be a signal that you need a roof replacement.
• Local contractors know the weather and city requirements the best.
• Make sure you prepare your home and garden for a seamless construction job.
• Expect differing durations of roof replacement depending on your roof condition and materials. 
• Spend some time cleaning up after the roof replacement.

1. When Do I Really Need Roof Replacement for My Twin Cities Home?

There are a number of reasons to replace your roof.

An obvious one would be the aftermath of storm damage or a significant hit from a nearby branch or falling object. Others are not as obvious.

Here are a few signs you need a roof replacement in Minneapolis or St. Paul.

Your Roof’s Lifespan Is Nearing Its End

Every type of roofing material has a projected lifespan.

Asphalt, for example, is projected to last 15 to 20 years with the right maintenance. Metal roofing lasts anywhere between 30 to 50 years, as do cedar shakes. Slate shingles will keep your home protected for 100 years.

If your roof is nearing its lifespan, you may already want to have a roof inspection done.

• Look out for a build-up of granules in your gutters, or spreading bald spots on your shingles that would need shingle replacement.
• Check for watermarks or moldy areas that point to worn-out underlayment.

It might be time for that roof replacement.

Your Roof Has Been Significantly Damaged by a Storm

After a storm, if your roof has been damaged to the point of leaks or danger to yourself or your possessions, you need to arrange for roof replacement right away.

• The first reason, of course, is to protect yourself and your things.
• The second reason is to make sure the roof replacement happens within the timeframe required by your insurance company.

Any delays, and it may impact your claim.

You Are Considering Reselling Your Home

Often, with roof replacement, you can renew the materials, the colors, and even the shingle style. A roof replacement is practically a do-over of your entire house’s curb appeal. 

If you are considering reselling your home, roof replacement might be what you need to make it stand out and update all of the relevant warranties. 

How can you get started?

2. Always Contract Local for Roof Replacement

Twin Cities residents know that there hardly is a dry day in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Only local contractors would know how to advise you when it comes to keeping your home energy-efficient in the winter. 

Local contractors know how to secure your home against rain, and are thorough in checking the roof decking for signs of mold or rot. They know how to coat your roof against winter sunlight and summer humidity.

In addition, they can help you decide how to stick with a roof that gives you the best curb appeal. They know how to keep your bungalow contemporary or how to match your Tudor-style home. Professionals also know the local building codes, and can help you find out if your roof replacement has any guidelines from your local association.

3. Roof Replacement Requires Some Preparation of the House and Grounds

The rainy weather in Minneapolis and St. Paul is no joke.

If you want to lessen the amount of dirt and mud kicked up on your grounds or tracked around your home during roof replacement, you need to prepare accordingly.

• Identify what the roofers need for the replacement process with the inspector, and guide them to maintain an efficient workflow, even when carrying materials back and forth.
• Cover plants, hedges, garden gnomes, sprinkler systems, or other items to prevent damage during the roof replacement process.
• Shorten the grass to make it easier to spot and remove roofing nails or debris that might appear during or after the replacement.
• Relocate children to relatives’ homes and pets to friends’ homes to avoid stress, accidents, and disruption caused by noise and activity.

In the Twin Cities, it is best to develop a strong working relationship with your contractor. Be clear about your needs and expectations of the roof replacement process.

If you need something in writing, don’t hesitate to let them know.

4. Roof Replacement Time Depends on Your Roof Condition and Materials

What determines how long your roof replacement will take?

The Condition of Your Roof

Roof deckings are most often made of some kind of plywood, pressed shavings, or wood planks. Because of their material, they are susceptible to mold, reaction to humidity, and rot. 

If your roof’s original underlayment is solid and moisture-resistant, your roof decking should generally be intact. If this is the case, you would only need to strip the underlayment, check the roof decking, and then replace the underlayment before adding shingles.

Some say that underlayment can simply be padded over, but it may cause unevenness in the base, leading to mismatched shingles in the roof. It is highly recommended that you completely replace the underlayment when you are replacing the roof. 

If something is wrong with part or all of the roof decking, as may happen after a strong storm, you may need to replace the decking as well. This prolongs the replacement time.

The Materials Your Roof Is Made Of

Materials also dictate the replacement time. Here are some of the common options:

Now for the clean-up.

5. Cleanup After Roof Replacement Is a Joint Effort

The contractor, depending on the practice in Minneapolis and St. Paul, would very likely have installed a dumpster or dumptruck very near the house at the right angle to catch sliding materials. That is where they ideally put construction-related materials once they’re done with them.

Here are some tips to survive the post-replacement cleanup.

• Let the contractor handle all heavy lifting and cleanup to avoid putting yourself at risk.
• Include specific cleanup tasks, like using a magnet to collect nails, directly in the contract.
• Create designated areas for family members and pets to ensure their safety until the property is fully cleared.
• Ask questions to confirm exactly what cleanup work the contractor will complete before they finish.

Get Your Roof Replacement for Your Minneapolis or St. Paul Home Today!

Roof replacement is a big decision with years-long effects. Lessen your stress and worries by knowing what to expect from your roof replacement. 

At Krech Exteriors, we have over 35 years of experience in roof replacement. We bring professionalism and long-lasting effects when you contract us for your roofing needs. Call us at (651) 349-6815 for a free estimate.

Let’s bring a breath of fresh air to your home together!