When it comes to protecting your home in Central Minnesota, a roof isn’t just a surface over your head — it’s a system engineered to withstand harsh seasons, heavy snow, winds, ice dams, and summer storms. Schyma Exteriors is a family-owned, local contractor that specializes in residential and new construction roofing, siding, gutters, and related exterior work, serving communities around St. Cloud and beyond. This reference guide focuses on their roofing process — how roofs are evaluated, planned, installed, and finalized — so you understand what to expect when upgrading or replacing your roof.
Why the Roofing Process Matters
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to recognize what a roof does. In Minnesota’s climate, roofs are your home’s first line of defense against extreme weather — intense sun, hail, wind, heavy snowfall, and freezing cycles. A high-quality roofing system helps protect structural integrity, improve energy efficiency, and reduce long-term repair costs. Choosing the right process and contractor can greatly impact the lifespan and performance of your roof.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Roof Inspection
The roofing process typically begins with a free consultation and on-site inspection. A professional from Schyma Exteriors will:
- Assess the current condition of your roof — looking at shingles, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and structural elements.
- Identify visible signs of aging or damage, such as curled or missing shingles, granule loss in gutters, leaks, or ice dam effects.
- Discuss whether a full roof replacement is needed or if targeted repairs would suffice.
This phase sets the foundation for the entire project by defining scope, materials, and expectations. A detailed and honest evaluation helps homeowners plan budget and timing with confidence.
Step 2: Choosing Materials and System Components
A roof is more than just shingles; it’s a multi-layered system that works together to protect your home. Schyma Exteriors focuses on quality materials and systems that will last in Central Minnesota’s climate. Some key components considered during planning include:
- Shingles: Asphalt architectural shingles are a common choice, offering durability, aesthetic options, and effective weather protection.
- Underlayment: This layer goes between shingles and the roof deck and adds extra moisture protection.
- Flashing: Metal or protective material installed around roof transitions — like chimneys, vents, and skylights — to prevent leaks.
- Ventilation and drip edges: Proper airflow and edge protection help prevent ice dams and prolong roof life.
As a CertainTeed ShingleMaster™-certified installer, Schyma Exteriors can offer up to a 50-year combined materials and labor warranty on CertainTeed roofing systems — one of the most extensive warranties in the business.
Step 3: Permitting and Project Planning
Once materials and scope are established, the contractor handles local permits and final scheduling. Permit requirements vary by municipality, and proper compliance ensures building code standards are met throughout the project. Planning also includes:
- Ordering materials and scheduling delivery
- Assigning crew timelines
- Preparing for weather conditions typical in your region
Clear communication at this stage helps homeowners understand timelines, expectations, and any logistical considerations — such as staging areas, crew access, and job-site safety.
Step 4: Tear-Off or Preparation
For most roof replacements, the tear-off process removes existing roofing down to the deck:
- Old shingles and underlayment are stripped away.
- The roof deck (the wood surface beneath) is inspected for rot or damage.
- Any necessary repairs to the decking are made before new roofing goes down.
This ensures the new system is installed on a clean and structurally sound base — a critical factor in long-term performance. In some cases, certain roofs can be installed over existing layers, but building professionals typically recommend tear-off to expose and fix hidden issues and to enhance longevity.
Step 5: Installation of the Roofing System
With the deck prepared, the roofing system is installed following recommended manufacturer and local code standards. This includes:
- Underlayment installation to add moisture barrier protection.
- Ice and water shield placement along vulnerable edges to guard against ice dam damage.
- Flashings and vents being set into place to create effective barriers at joints and roof penetrations.
- Shingle installation, working from the bottom up according to the style and pattern chosen.
Proper installation details — especially around transitions and edges — have a significant impact on the functional longevity of the roof. Certified crews ensure these details meet high standards for performance.
Step 6: Cleanup and Final Walk-Through
Once installation is complete, a professional roofing crew will:
- Remove discarded materials and clean the job site, including checking for loose nails and debris.
- Perform a final walkthrough with the homeowner to review the completed work.
- Provide documentation for warranties, care instructions, and any maintenance suggestions.
A clean job site and detailed review ensures you leave the project with confidence in what was done and how your new roof will protect your home.
What Happens After Installation
A new roof is just the beginning of a long-term system. It’s wise to:
- Inspect your attic periodically for signs of moisture or condensation.
- Keep gutters clear to ensure proper drainage.
- Monitor roof performance after storms, especially in early years.
Routine checks can help preserve the warranty and prolong the roof’s life. Choosing trusted professionals like Schyma Exteriors means you also have local support for future repairs or additions, such as gutter work or exterior upgrades.
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