Replacing your roof is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make in your home. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, insulation, resale value, and peace of mind. In Memphis, where unpredictable storms and intense summer heat are common, the integrity of your roof plays a crucial role in protecting everything you own.
At River City Pros, we understand that homeowners want a roofing company they can trust—one that is local, licensed, and transparent from start to finish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of our roof replacement process, so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Free Roof Inspection and Detailed Assessment
Our process begins with a complimentary roof inspection, designed to provide clarity and prevent unnecessary repairs or replacements. During the inspection, our trained professionals perform a full exterior and attic analysis. We look for common red flags such as cracked shingles, blistering, algae growth, and compromised flashing. Inside the attic, we search for mold, insulation gaps, and moisture penetration, all of which could signify more serious roofing problems.
We use drone imaging and infrared scanners when necessary to detect hidden issues beneath the surface. Every inspection comes with a photo-documented report and recommendations that prioritize longevity, efficiency, and value.
By the end of this visit, you’ll have a full understanding of your roof’s current condition and whether it can be repaired or needs replacement.
Step 2: Transparent Estimate and Roofing Material Consultation
Following your inspection, we’ll provide a no-obligation estimate that breaks down labor, materials, permits, and warranty information. This isn’t a rough guess—our estimates are based on square footage, roof pitch, waste factors, and complexity. If you have storm damage, we’ll also assess whether insurance coverage is applicable and guide you through the claim process.
We’ll walk you through the benefits of the different roofing materials, including:
| Material | Key Benefits | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | Affordable, easy to install, available in many colors | 15–30 yrs |
| Metal Roofing | Extremely durable, energy-efficient, resistant to fire | 40–70 yrs |
| Slate or Tile | Elegant look, long lifespan, low maintenance | 50+ yrs |
| Synthetic Shingles | Lightweight, weather-resistant, eco-friendly | 20–50 yrs |
We help you select the ideal roofing solution based on your style preferences, budget, and Memphis climate factors, such as heavy rain and UV exposure.
Helpful Resource: Compare our roofing materials and services
Next, we guide you through material selection based on your budget, home style, and long-term goals. Each type of roofing material has distinct advantages. For example, architectural shingles provide a dimensional look and enhanced durability, making them ideal for Memphis homes facing strong winds and hail. Metal roofing offers superior longevity and energy savings by reflecting sunlight, reducing cooling costs in the hot Tennessee summers.
This collaborative approach ensures your new roof isn’t just durable—it complements your home’s curb appeal and long-term maintenance expectations.
Step 3: Permits, Planning, and Scheduling
Replacing a roof isn’t just about physical labor—it’s also about meeting legal and city code requirements. Memphis and Shelby County have specific regulations regarding fire-resistant materials, roof load ratings, and ventilation that must be followed.
At River City Pros, we take care of all the paperwork so you don’t have to. That includes:
- Pulling permits from local authorities
- Scheduling inspections (before and after installation)
- Coordinating deliveries of shingles, underlayment, and tools
We also provide a digital project calendar where you can track key milestones and expected dates. Communication is consistent and proactive, ensuring you’re never left wondering about progress or timelines. Our planning phase eliminates surprises and guarantees a smooth, timely experience.
Step 4: Roof Removal and Safe Job Site Preparation
Once materials are delivered and permits approved, we begin with site protection. We cover landscaping, windows, AC units, and walkways with tarps and plywood barriers. We use dump trailers instead of dumpsters to avoid driveway damage and ensure a faster cleanup.
Removing the old roof involves stripping down all existing shingles, nails, and underlayment down to the decking. This is a noisy but vital step to ensure the new roof bonds correctly and lasts as long as intended. Our crew is careful and efficient, often completing tear-off in a single day for average-sized homes.
Before wrapping up this stage, we sweep the area with magnetic rollers and manually inspect for stray nails or debris—your safety and satisfaction are always top of mind.
Step 5: Wood Decking Inspection and Structural Reinforcement
Beneath every good roof is a solid foundation. Once the surface layers are removed, our team thoroughly examines the wood decking (usually OSB or plywood) for signs of weakness. Years of leaks or poor ventilation can leave rot, mildew, or warped boards behind, which must be replaced before proceeding.
This is where many roofing companies cut corners—but at River City Pros, we ensure your decking meets NAIL ZONE™ strength standards and code requirements. If we find issues, we notify you immediately, explain the scope of repair, and complete the work using pressure-treated, code-compliant materials.
We also examine fastener integrity and reinforce trusses or rafters if needed—especially in older homes throughout Memphis’ historic districts.
Step 6: Full Installation of Roofing System
We don’t just slap on shingles—we install a complete, layered roofing system designed for long-term performance, weather resistance, and energy efficiency. Each component works together to protect your home from Memphis’ unique climate challenges like heavy rain, intense sun, and high humidity. Below is a breakdown of each essential element in your roofing system.
Essential Elements Of A Quality Roofing System During The Roof Replacement Process:
1. Drip Edge Installation
The drip edge is a metal flashing that’s installed along the roof’s edges to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. This prevents wood rot, mold, and foundation damage over time. It also provides a clean, finished look to the perimeter of your roof and is a code requirement in most municipalities, including Memphis.
2. Synthetic Underlayment
Unlike outdated felt paper, synthetic underlayment is a high-performance moisture barrier that lies between your roof deck and shingles. It resists tearing, repels water, and offers superior breathability to reduce condensation. It’s your roof’s second line of defense if shingles are compromised during a storm.
3. Ice & Water Shield (where applicable)
Though Memphis doesn’t get harsh winters like northern climates, ice & water shield is still crucial for valleys, dormers, and low-slope sections of your roof. It’s a peel-and-stick membrane that self-seals around nails and provides extra leak protection in high-risk areas prone to water pooling or backflow.
4. Starter Strip Shingles
These are installed at the edges of your roof and are specially designed to anchor the first row of shingles and resist wind uplift. Without a proper starter strip, even the best shingles can be vulnerable to being torn off during high winds, which are common in the Mid-South region.
5. Main Roofing Material
This is the visible layer of your roof—typically architectural asphalt shingles, metal panels, or synthetic shakes—installed using precise nailing patterns that align with manufacturer and local building codes. Proper shingle alignment and fastener placement are essential for durability, curb appeal, and maintaining your manufacturer warranty.
6. Ridge Cap and Ventilation Systems
The ridge cap shingles provide the finishing touch and extra waterproofing at the peak of your roof. Meanwhile, ridge vents or box vents allow hot, moist air to escape from the attic, preventing mold growth, improving energy efficiency, and extending the lifespan of your shingles. Proper ventilation is especially critical in Memphis, where high summer temps can cook an attic without airflow.
Premium and High Quality Roofing Materials and Products:
We use only premium products from trusted manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning—brands known for their durability and strong warranty protection. Each component is installed by certified professionals, ensuring you get maximum performance and peace of mind for decades to come.
Every component is installed to manufacturer specifications, which protects your product warranty and ensures long-term performance. Our crews use high-performance nail guns, chalk lines for alignment, and quality control checks throughout the day.
We’re certified by GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning – so you’re eligible for extended warranties not available through general contractors.
Step 7: Final Inspection, Walkthrough, and Warranty Registration
With installation complete, your River City Pros project manager conducts a detailed walkthrough. This is where we ensure every aspect of the roof meets our standards—from flashing around the chimney to the uniform alignment of the shingles. We even fly drones over the roof for aerial inspections when needed.
We’ll show you photos of critical areas (valleys, vents, flashing) and ensure you’re satisfied before closing the job. You’ll also receive:
- Warranty documents (manufacturer and labor)
- A final invoice with no surprise charges
- Tips on maintaining your new roof
- Digital before/after photos for your records or insurance
Your warranty will be registered on your behalf, and we’ll remain available for annual inspections and maintenance tips.
Step 8: Site Cleanup and Project Close-Out
Cleanup is more than a formality—it’s our final chance to earn your five-star review. After your new roof is in place, we spend up to 2 hours cleaning:
- Gutters and downspouts
- Flower beds and patios
- Driveways, sidewalks, and yard edges
We also run magnetic sweepers multiple times across your property to collect stray nails or metal fragments. If anything was moved or protected (e.g., patio furniture), it’s returned exactly where it was.
The final result? A beautiful, functional roof and a spotless yard—ready to enjoy with your family.
Why Homeowners in Memphis Trust River City Pros
Memphis homeowners face unique roofing challenges: sudden storms, extreme heat, and older homes with complex architectural styles. At River City Pros, we specialize in navigating these challenges with skill and care. We are:
- Fully licensed, bonded, and insured
- Certified by top roofing manufacturers
- Locally owned with deep ties to the Memphis community
- Rated 5-stars on Google and HomeAdvisor
We also provide financing plans, referral discounts, and seasonal promotions for veterans and seniors. With us, roofing isn’t just a job—it’s a partnership built on respect and integrity.
Key Takeaways
- A roof replacement project involves more than just shingles—it’s a multi-step system engineered for durability.
- River City Pros handles everything from inspection to cleanup with care, precision, and transparency.
- You can trust our process, warranties, and professionalism to deliver a long-lasting roofing solution in Memphis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a new roof?
Typical signs include curling or missing shingles, water stains on ceilings, mold in the attic, and frequent leaks. If your roof is over 20 years old, it may be time to replace it.
Can you help with insurance claims?
Yes! We provide photos, estimates, and direct support during the claims process. We also meet with adjusters on-site to ensure all storm damage is documented correctly.
Do you offer financing options?
Absolutely. We partner with reputable lenders to provide monthly payment options with 0% interest for qualified homeowners. You can learn more about financing and even get pre-approved online.
Are your roofing crews insured?
Yes. Every crew member is covered by worker’s compensation and general liability insurance for your protection and peace of mind.
What warranties do you provide?
Depending on the material, warranties range from 25 to 50 years. We also include a 10-year workmanship guarantee on every project. Need help understanding the different roofing warranties? Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide: Roofing Warranties & Guarantees for Memphis Homeowners.