Most residential roof replacements in the West Metro take 1-3 days depending on size, complexity, and weather conditions. A typical single-family home in St. Louis Park or Minnetonka with asphalt shingles can often be completed in a single day by an experienced crew, while larger homes or more complex projects in areas like Wayzata or Plymouth may require 2-3 days. Minnesota’s unpredictable weather can cause delays, and contractors typically schedule projects during our limited construction season from April through October when conditions are most favorable.
Factors That Affect Roof Replacement Timeline in Minnesota
Home Size and Roof Complexity
The square footage of your roof is the primary factor determining how long your replacement will take. A standard 1,500-square-foot rambler common in Golden Valley or Hopkins neighborhoods can typically be completed in one day. However, larger two-story colonials or sprawling split-levels found throughout Edina and Eden Prairie may require two full days or more.
Roof complexity also plays a significant role. Homes with multiple valleys, dormers, chimneys, skylights, or steep pitches require additional time for proper installation. Many of the charming mid-century homes throughout established West Metro neighborhoods feature architectural details that add beauty but increase installation time.
Weather Considerations Unique to Minnesota
Minnesota weather is perhaps the most unpredictable factor in any roofing timeline. Even during our primary construction season from late April through October, sudden summer storms can halt work for safety reasons. Contractors cannot install shingles in wet conditions or when temperatures drop below manufacturer specifications—typically around 40-45°F for standard asphalt shingles.
Spring projects in Minnetonka or Maple Grove may face delays from late-season snow or rain, while fall projects risk early cold snaps. This is why most roofing companies in the West Metro stay extremely busy during the peak summer months of June, July, and August when weather is most predictable.
Material Selection and Availability
The type of roofing material you choose affects both the timeline and scheduling. Architectural asphalt shingles—the most popular choice throughout Hennepin County—are readily available and quickest to install. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, increasingly popular in St. Louis Park and Bloomington due to hail damage concerns and insurance discounts, install at similar speeds but may have longer lead times for delivery.
Metal roofing, which more homeowners in Plymouth and Brooklyn Park are selecting for superior snow-shedding properties, typically requires additional installation time—usually 2-4 days for an average home. Cedar shake replacements, occasionally seen in older Wayzata or Edina neighborhoods, also require more time and specialized expertise.
Day-by-Day Breakdown of a Typical Roof Replacement
Day One: Tear-Off and Installation
For most West Metro homes, the crew arrives early morning and begins with tear-off, removing old shingles, underlayment, and damaged decking. This is the noisiest phase, but experienced crews work efficiently. By midday, they’re typically installing new underlayment and ice-and-water shield—critical components for Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles and ice dam prevention.
Shingle installation usually begins in the afternoon, and for average-sized ramblers throughout Hopkins or Richfield, the entire roof can be completed, cleaned up, and fully watertight before the crew leaves that evening.
Day Two: Larger Homes and Detail Work
Larger homes in Eden Prairie or two-story properties in Minnetonka generally require a second day. The crew completes remaining shingle installation, installs ridge cap shingles, addresses flashing around chimneys and skylights, and ensures all penetrations are properly sealed—essential for preventing the water infiltration that leads to ice dams during harsh Minnesota winters.
Potential Day Three: Complex Projects
Homes with multiple roof planes, significant repair needs discovered during tear-off, or weather delays may extend into a third day. If your 1950s Cape Cod in Golden Valley requires extensive decking replacement due to previous ice dam damage, this additional work extends the timeline but ensures a solid foundation for your new roof.
Planning Your Project Timeline
Schedule Early for Best Results
Given Minnesota’s compressed construction season, contact roofing contractors in January through March for summer installation. This ensures you get your preferred timing and aren’t waiting until fall when weather becomes less predictable.
Prepare for Some Disruption
Even a one-day project creates noise and activity. Plan to work from home if needed, secure pets indoors, and move vehicles from the driveway. Remove wall decorations inside, as vibrations from tear-off can knock items loose.
Weather Buffer Time
Always build flexibility into your schedule. Even with a clear forecast, Minnesota weather can change quickly. Reputable contractors will never rush installation in poor conditions, as proper installation is critical for a roof that will withstand our extreme climate swings from -20°F winters to 95°F summers.
Ready to Schedule Your West Metro Roof Replacement?
Bedrock Restoration has helped thousands of homeowners throughout St. Louis Park, Minnetonka, Hopkins, Edina, and surrounding West Metro communities with efficient, high-quality roof replacements. Our experienced crews understand Minnesota’s unique roofing challenges and work diligently to complete your project quickly without sacrificing quality.
Contact Bedrock Restoration today at https://bedrockrestoration.com for a free inspection and detailed timeline estimate for your specific home. We’ll help you navigate insurance claims if you’ve experienced storm damage and ensure your roof replacement is scheduled and completed with minimal disruption to your life.