Metal Roof Installation Process and Timeline in Dothan, AL

Knowing what happens, and when, takes much of the stress out of a new roof. Here is a typical timeline for a metal roof on a Dothan-area home, from the first phone call to the final walk-through. Every contractor runs things a little differently, so ask yours to walk you through their process. To get started, call (334) 432-8483 and we will connect you with an independent local metal roofing contractor. We are a referral service, not the roofing company.

Week 1: Inspection and quotes

The contractor visits, looks at the roof and attic, measures, and talks through options: standing seam or exposed-fastener, gauge, color and finish, tear-off or go-over. Expect a written quote within a few days. Getting two or three quotes is wise for a project this size. Ask each contractor for their Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board license and proof of insurance.

Weeks 1 to 2: Contract, colors and permits

Once you choose, you sign a contract that spells out scope, price, payment schedule and warranties. You pick a panel color and trim colors; looking at a real sample in daylight helps, since colors look different on a roof under Alabama sun. The contractor confirms whether a City of Dothan building permit or a county permit is needed and who pulls it. If you have an HOA, get approval now.

Weeks 2 to 5: Material lead time

Metal panels and trim are often made to order in your color and cut to length. Lead time can be one to four weeks, longer after big storms when demand spikes. Standing seam panels are sometimes roll-formed on site with a portable machine, which can shorten the wait.

Install day 1: Setup and tear-off

1. The crew sets up a dumpster or trailer and protects landscaping, AC units and windows.
2. Old shingles come off one section at a time.
3. Rotten decking is replaced, usually at the per-sheet price in the contract.
4. New underlayment goes down so the house is dried-in before the crew leaves.

Install days 2 to 5: Metal goes on

1. Drip edge, eave and rake trim are installed.
2. Valley flashing and self-adhered membrane go in at valleys and around penetrations.
3. Panels are installed, either screwed through the face (exposed-fastener) or clipped and seamed (standing seam).
4. Pipe boots, vents, chimney and wall flashing are finished.
5. Ridge cap and closures complete the roof, with a vented ridge if ventilation was included.

Final day: Cleanup and walk-through

The crew cleans gutters, hauls debris and runs a magnetic sweeper across the yard and driveway for screws and metal scraps. Walk the property with the contractor, look at flashing details and trim lines, and ask about any spots that concern you. If a permit was pulled, a final inspection may be scheduled.

Typical total timeline

Weather delays

Dothan's summer afternoon thunderstorms are the most common cause of delay. Good crews start early, watch the radar and never leave the roof open overnight. During tropical storm threats, expect work to pause until the weather clears.

Paperwork to keep

• The signed contract and final invoice
• The manufacturer's panel and paint warranty registration
• The contractor's workmanship warranty in writing
• Permit and final inspection records, if any
• Before-and-after photos, which help with insurance and resale

Ready to start? Call (334) 432-8483.