Replacing your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make as a homeowner. In Pinellas County—where roofs are constantly tested by salt air, humidity, and hurricane season—you want to know not only what it will cost, but also how long the process will take. At American Family Roofing LLC, we walk our customers through each step, so they know exactly what to expect.
Here’s a breakdown of the roof replacement timeline for most homes in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, and across Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Step 1: Initial Roof Inspection and Estimate (1–2 days)
The process starts with a professional inspection. We assess your current roof’s condition, note any storm damage, and recommend materials that fit your home and budget. Within a day or two, you’ll receive a written estimate and project timeline.
Tip: If you’re working with insurance, this step may take longer depending on adjuster availability. Our background as former adjusters helps speed up this process by providing thorough documentation.
Step 2: Permitting and Scheduling (1–2 weeks)
In Pinellas County, permits are required for roof replacements. Once you approve the estimate, we submit the paperwork to your municipality. Most permits are processed within a week or two. During this time, we also order materials and schedule your installation date.
Step 3: Old Roof Tear-Off (1–2 days)
On installation day, our crew removes your existing roof down to the decking. We inspect the wood structure for rot, water damage, or other issues. If repairs are needed, we make them before moving forward.
Real Example: In Clearwater Beach, we uncovered rotted decking beneath a 20-year-old shingle roof. Because we caught it early, we replaced just a few sheets rather than dealing with widespread structural problems later.
Step 4: Underlayment and Waterproofing (1 day)
Next, we install a high-quality underlayment designed for Florida’s heat and storms. This acts as your roof’s secondary water barrier, ensuring added protection against heavy rain and wind-driven water.
Step 5: New Roof Installation (1–3 days)
- Shingle roofs: Usually 1–2 days, depending on size and complexity
- Metal roofs: Typically 2–3 days, since panels are custom-fitted
- Tile roofs: May take longer (up to a week) due to material weight and detail work
Our goal is to complete this step quickly while ensuring the highest level of craftsmanship.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Cleanup (1 day)
Once installation is complete, we perform a detailed inspection, review all flashing and ventilation, and ensure your new roof meets Florida building codes. Our crew also does a full cleanup, including a magnet sweep for nails and debris, leaving your property spotless.
Total Roof Replacement Timeline
For most Pinellas County homes, the average roof replacement takes 2–3 weeks from start to finish, including inspections, permits, tear-off, installation, and final cleanup. The actual construction is often done in less than a week.
Knowing the timeline for a roof replacement helps homeowners plan ahead, especially in Florida, where hurricane season puts extra pressure on roof readiness. Whether you’re replacing a storm-damaged roof or upgrading for energy efficiency, working with an experienced local contractor ensures a smooth process from start to finish.
At American Family Roofing LLC, we take pride in delivering efficient, code-compliant, and storm-ready roofing solutions for Pinellas County homeowners. With our unique experience as both roofers and former insurance adjusters, we make the process stress-free and reliable.
Is it time to replace your roof?
Schedule your estimate today and let Pinellas County’s trusted roofing experts walk you through every step.