Request a free quote using the quote button on this page.
What this job is
Roof tear off and re-deck is the base work for a full roof replacement. The old roof system is stripped off. The deck below is inspected. Weak or damaged deck is replaced. Only then does the new roof go on.
This service is part of a full re-roof. It is not a stand alone patch. It sets up every layer above it to last.
If you are planning a new roof, this work pairs with all roof types, from tile roof replacement to flat roof replacement.
Signs you need tear off and re-deck work
You may need full tear off and deck work if:
- Your roof has more than one old layer already.
- Shingles, tile, or membrane are worn across the whole roof, not in one spot.
- The roof feels soft or spongy in places when walked on.
- You see sagging lines along the roof plane.
- Leaks have been present for a long time, which raises the chance of deck rot.
- Boards look cracked, warped, or stained from the attic.
- Nails or fasteners no longer hold firm in the deck.
Full tear off vs overlay
An overlay leaves the old roof in place. A new layer goes over it. That path is faster at first glance, but it has real limits.
Full tear off removes all old layers down to the deck. It adds time and disposal work, but it gives a clean base. Flashing can be fully replaced. Deck damage can be found and fixed. The new roof can be installed as one system, as it was designed to be.
For a true replacement, most providers will recommend tear off. If a provider suggests overlay, ask them to explain in writing why the deck does not need to be checked and how weight and code limits were considered.
Process step by step
- First review. The provider checks the roof surface, attic where access allows, and the number of layers. They plan access, bin placement, and protection for siding, plants, and driveways.
- Scope and quote. The quote should list tear off, disposal, deck inspection, an allowance or unit price for deck replacement, and the new roof system above it.
- Site prep. Tarps and protection are set. Ladders, lifts, and safety gear are placed.
- Tear off. Old roofing, underlayment, and flashing are stripped in sections. Material is moved to the bin as work goes, not left piled on the deck.
- Deck inspection. The bare deck is checked across the whole roof. Bad boards, plywood, or metal sections are marked.
- Re-deck work. Damaged sections are cut out and replaced with new deck of matching thickness. Gaps, edges, and fastening are checked so the surface is firm and even.
- Dry in. New underlayment or membrane base is installed to make the roof watertight at the end of each day.
- New roof install. The new system is installed over the sound deck, with new flashing and vents as scoped.
- Disposal and clean up. Bins are hauled away. The yard is swept and checked for nails and debris with magnets where apt.
- Final walk. You review photos of deck work, the finished roof, and clean up with the provider.
Materials and options
Deck materials depend on your home and roof type.
- Plywood deck. Common on many homes. Sheets are replaced where rot or delamination is found.
- OSB deck. Also common. It must be dry and firm. Swollen or crumbling OSB should be replaced.
- Board deck. Older homes may have solid boards with gaps. Wide gaps may need to be covered with new sheet deck so modern roofing can be fastened well.
- Metal deck. Seen more on low slope and commercial style roofs. Rusted or bent sections need specialist review.
Cost factors
We do not list price ranges on this page. Factors that change cost include:
- Roof size, pitch, height, and access.
- Number of old layers to remove.
- Weight and type of old material, such as tile vs light material.
- Disposal and bin needs.
- Amount of deck that must be replaced after inspection.
- Type and thickness of new deck material.
- Need for added work at eaves, valleys, or sagging areas.
Because deck condition changes scope, ask how extra deck work is priced per sheet or per section, and require approval before extra work is done.
How to choose a provider
- Ask if the quote assumes full tear off to the deck, in writing.
- Ask how deck inspection will be documented, with photos or a marked plan.
- Ask for the unit price for extra deck replacement and the approval step.
- Ask about site protection, bin placement, and daily dry in if weather turns.
- Ask for proof of licensing and insurance that the provider is required to show in your area, and check it yourself.
- Ask how disposal is handled and what clean up is included.
How the referral works
Request a free quote using the quote button on this page. Share your city and roof details, and get connected to a local provider who offers tear off and re-deck work as part of a full replacement. You then deal direct with that provider for quotes, contracts, and work.
FAQ
What is the difference between tear off and overlay?
Tear off removes the old roof down to the deck so the deck can be checked and fixed. Overlay, also called a roof over, leaves the old roof in place and adds a new layer on top. Overlay hides deck problems and adds weight. For a full replacement, tear off is the clear way to see the true condition.
How do I know if my deck needs re-decking?
Signs include soft or spongy spots, visible rot, cracked or warped boards, rusted metal deck, and sagging areas. Some signs only show after tear off when the deck is bare. Your provider should check the full deck, mark bad sections, and show you photos before new material covers the work.
Does tear off include disposal of old material?
A full tear off scope should include removal and disposal of old roofing, underlayment, and damaged deck pieces. Ask if bin placement, haul away, and yard clean up are in the quote. Old material can be heavy and bulky, so clear disposal terms help avoid surprise charges and mess left on site.
Why can deck condition change the scope?
No one can see the full deck until the old roof is off. If rot or damage is wider than expected, more deck must be replaced to give the new roof a sound base. A good quote explains this risk up front, sets a unit price for extra deck work, and requires your approval before extra work proceeds.
Can a new roof go on a bad deck if it looks fine on top?
It should not. A new roof needs firm support and a solid surface for fasteners to hold. A weak deck can lead to movement, fastener failure, and early leaks. Fixing the deck during replacement is the right time to do it, because the roof is already open and the crew has direct access.
Areas we connect
We connect homeowners in these areas with local providers:
You can also add gutter replacement with a new roof to the same project.
Common questions
What is the difference between tear off and overlay?
Tear off removes the old roof down to the deck so the deck can be checked and fixed. Overlay, also called a roof over, leaves the old roof in place and adds a new layer on top. Overlay hides deck problems and adds weight. For a full replacement, tear off is the clear way to see the true condition.
How do I know if my deck needs re-decking?
Signs include soft or spongy spots, visible rot, cracked or warped boards, rusted metal deck, and sagging areas. Some signs only show after tear off when the deck is bare. Your provider should check the full deck, mark bad sections, and show you photos before new material covers the work.
Does tear off include disposal of old material?
A full tear off scope should include removal and disposal of old roofing, underlayment, and damaged deck pieces. Ask if bin placement, haul away, and yard clean up are in the quote. Old material can be heavy and bulky, so clear disposal terms help avoid surprise charges and mess left on site.
Why can deck condition change the scope?
No one can see the full deck until the old roof is off. If rot or damage is wider than expected, more deck must be replaced to give the new roof a sound base. A good quote explains this risk up front, sets a unit price for extra deck work, and requires your approval before extra work proceeds.
Can a new roof go on a bad deck if it looks fine on top?
It should not. A new roof needs firm support and a solid surface for fasteners to hold. A weak deck can lead to movement, fastener failure, and early leaks. Fixing the deck during replacement is the right time to do it, because the roof is already open and the crew has direct access.