Roof Replacement – A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

After many years of using a residential building, a complete roof covering replacement may become necessary. Due to exposure to weather conditions, both the wooden elements of the truss and the roofing materials can become damaged or lose their original appearance. This is when roof replacement comes into play. There are several ways to approach it—you can replace the entire roof including the truss structure (if damaged), or opt for a modern roofing solution like Gerard roof tiles. Read the guide to learn how roof replacement is carried out step by step.

When Does Roof Replacement Become Necessary?

Your roof is exposed to sun, rain, snow, and wind every day. Over time, it may stop performing its function properly. If you notice alarming signs or your roof is simply old, don’t wait. Replacing it might be cheaper than repeatedly repairing damaged structural elements or replacing cracked roof tiles.

Keep in mind that not every problem is visible to the naked eye. However, if you regularly inspect your roof’s condition, you’re likely to notice the first signs that indicate a full roof replacement is needed.

Factors that should prompt you to calculate the total cost of roof replacement include:

● Leaks under the roof covering – visible moisture or stains in the attic;

● Deformed or cracked tiles – the material loses its tightness and no longer protects against water;

● Loose flashing elements – wind can tear them off completely;
● Moss or lichen on the roof – a sign the roof retains moisture and cannot breathe;
● Lack of thermal insulation – heat escapes in winter, the roof overheats in summer;
● The roofing is over 25–30 years old – a full technical assessment is needed.

If you notice any warning signs, contact a roofing expert promptly and have a professional inspection of the structure and materials used for the roof covering.

If the damage proves to be serious, roof replacement becomes unavoidable. Remember, this is an investment in the safety of yourself and your family. A new roof will help reduce heat loss during the heating season and enhance the overall aesthetics of your building.

Roof Replacement and Legal Formalities – Is a Building Permit Required?

Before starting a roof replacement project, it’s advisable to consult the building regulations in your country, as governed by national implementations of the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and local Building Codes. Across most EU countries, minor roof works (such as replacing roofing materials) do not require a building permit, provided they do not affect the structural integrity of the building.

In general, notification to the local municipal or district office is sufficient if the work involves only replacing the external covering (tiles, shingles, sheets) without altering the structural components of the roof.

However, a building permit is usually required if the project involves structural changes such as modifying the roof truss, altering the roof slope, increasing the height of the building, or converting an attic into living space.

According to national adaptations of the EU framework, projects are typically subject to two regimes:

Summary Table: When Is a Notification Enough vs. When Is a Building Permit Required?

Standard Procedure

• Notification: You typically submit a simple declaration or notification to the local authority (city/district office) before starting minor roof works.
• Waiting period: In many EU countries, you must wait 15–30 days after submission. If the authority does not object, you may proceed.
• Building permit: Required for major structural changes, especially if the intervention affects safety, usage classification, or energy performance of the building.

Legal Background and Sources

• EU Construction Products Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
• National Building Codes (varies by country: e.g., Bauordnung in Germany, Code de l’urbanisme in France, TBA in Austria)
• Heritage Protection Laws (when working on buildings under cultural or architectural protection)

For accurate legal advice, always consult your local municipal building department or a licensed architect or civil engineer familiar with your country’s construction regulations.

Remember!

When it is necessary to notify the authorities about a roof replacement, you should prepare a notification form, a description of the planned construction work, sketches and design plans, and a declaration of your legal right to the property.

Average Roof Replacement Costs in the European Union (2025)

Replacing a roof is a significant investment for homeowners. Costs can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of roofing material, labor rates, and regional economic conditions. Below is a breakdown of average costs per square meter (m²) for various components involved in roof replacement:

1. Roofing Materials (per m²):

• Clay Tiles: €50 – €90
• Concrete Tiles: €35 – €70
• Metal Roofing: €60 – €120
• Bitumen (Flat Roofs): €45 – €65
• EPDM Rubber (Flat Roofs): €65 – €85
• PVC (Flat Roofs): €80 – €100

Source: Zoofy, Homebuilding & Renovating

2. Insulation and Membranes (per m²):

• Thermal Insulation: €20 – €50
• Breathable Membranes: €10 – €20

Note: Installing insulation during roof replacement can improve energy efficiency and may qualify for regional subsidies.

3. Labor Costs (per m²):

• Roof Installation: €50 – €100
• Removal of Old Roofing: €20 – €50

Labor costs can vary significantly based on the complexity of the roof design and regional wage differences.

4. Additional Costs:

• Scaffolding Rental: €1,000 – €3,000 (entire project duration)
• Waste Disposal (e.g., skip hire): €200 – €500
• Permits and Inspections: €100 – €500

Estimated Total Cost for a 150 m² Roof Replacement:

Please note that these figures are indicative and actual costs may vary. It’s advisable to obtain multiple quotes from local contractors to get a precise estimate.

Key Considerations:

• Regional Variations: Labor and material costs can differ between countries and even within regions of the same country.
• Material Choice: Opting for higher-quality materials may increase upfront costs but can offer better durability and lower maintenance over time.
• Energy Efficiency: Upgrading insulation during roof replacement can lead to energy savings and may be supported by local incentives.
• Permits: Always check with local authorities regarding necessary permits and regulations before commencing work.

For more detailed information and to calculate specific costs based on your location and requirements, you can refer to the following resources:

• Zoofy – Roof Replacement Costs
• Homebuilding & Renovating – New Roof Cost Guide
• RoofCalc – Metric Roofing Calculator

Disclaimer: The above information is based on average estimates and should be used for general guidance only. For accurate and personalized quotes, consult with professional roofing contractors in your area.

What Roofing Material Should You Choose When Replacing a Roof?

When it comes to replacing a 100 m² roof, the cost largely depends on the type of material you choose for the roof covering. Let’s assume your home’s roof structure is in good condition and doesn’t require any work on the wooden elements of the truss—only the roof covering itself needs replacement.

In that case, the biggest expense will likely be the purchase and installation of the new roofing material. Whether you’re replacing asbestos-cement roofing, clay and concrete tiles, and  bituminous shingles or metal tiles, you should consider using high-quality roofing materials during the renovation.

Focus on durability, aesthetics, and resistance to weather conditions. Gerard tiles—such as the Classic, Diamant, Heritage, or even Corona series—are a great choice, especially if you’re looking to enhance the visual appeal of your home while minimizing the cost of replacing the roof covering.

In many cases, Gerard roofs can be installed directly over the existing roof covering. This shortens the time needed to complete the project and helps significantly reduce overall costs.

Roof Covering Replacement – Step by Step

Before starting the work, secure the building and its surroundings.
Removing flammable materials and marking out the work zone is essential. This helps you avoid hazards and accidents. A well-organized work area also shortens installation time.

Once you know the cost of roof replacement, you can begin the actual work:

1. Prepare the roof for covering replacement – secure the building, remove any movable elements, and mark out a work zone for the roofing team.
2. Remove the old roofing (if necessary) – take off tiles or metal sheets starting from the top, being careful not to damage structural elements.
3. Assess the condition of the roof truss – inspect rafters, wall plates, and joints; replace or reinforce any damaged parts.
4. Install the roofing membrane – lay a vapor-permeable membrane from the eaves to the ridge, ensuring proper overlap and fastening.
5. Attach battens and counter-battens – space them evenly to ensure ventilation and provide stable support for the roofing material.
6. Lay the new roofing – start from the top edge of the roof, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and check each row for alignment.
7. Complete flashing work – carefully seal areas where the roof meets the chimney, valleys, and edges to prevent water ingress.
8. Install the gutter system – set the correct slope, mount the brackets and gutters to ensure effective water drainage.

When you feel that this kind of work is beyond your skills and capabilities, seek help from professionals. This way, you can be confident that your new roof will be properly installed and will maintain its durability for decades to come.

Would you like to accurately estimate the cost of replacing your roof? Use our tools!

Did the Total Cost of Roof Replacement Turn Out to Be Unacceptable?
You may have chosen the wrong technology or simply made a mistake during the calculations. To accurately plan your roof replacement and estimate expenses, use a roof cost calculator.

This simple tool helps you estimate the approximate cost of replacing your roof. The entire process is straightforward. Start by selecting the roof type, such as a gable roof, then enter the width, length, and pitch angle of the slopes.

Next, add roof windows, choose the type and color of tiles, and optionally include ridge and verge coverings. After entering the basic information, you’ll receive an estimated total cost of replacing the roof on your house.

Summary – Key Aspects of a Successful Roof Replacement

Before deciding to replace your roof, assess its technical condition— even minor damage can indicate a bigger issue. If you’re planning the work, don’t forget the formalities: a notification or a building permit may be required.

Calculate the costs carefully and include all elements, from dismantling and materials to labor. Choose roofing that is both durable and visually appealing, such as Gerard tiles, which can be installed over the existing covering. A new roof is an investment that enhances the comfort, safety, and appearance of your home.

Remember!
The better the roofing material you choose, the greater the chance that the structure will last for several decades without the need for another roof replacement.