The Dublin Roof Installation Checklist: What Every Homeowner Should Know
If you’re planning a New Roof Installation Dublin, congratulations—you’re making a smart investment in your home’s safety, energy efficiency, and long-term value. But before the first tile is laid or scaffold is set up, it’s essential to have a clear game plan.
From choosing materials to understanding permits, hiring contractors to post-installation care, this roof installation checklist will walk you through everything Dublin homeowners need to know.
✅ 1. Understand Why You Need a New Roof
Start by asking: What’s driving your roof replacement or new build?
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Old roof showing signs of wear (cracks, leaks, missing tiles)
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Poor insulation or rising energy bills
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Storm damage or persistent water ingress
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Planning an extension or new construction
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Adding property value before a sale
Understanding your goal helps you choose the right materials and budget for your specific situation.
✅ 2. Know Your Roofing Options in Dublin
Dublin’s mix of weather and architecture means not all roofs are created equal. Here are the top options:
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Natural Slate – Long-lasting and stylish; ideal for heritage homes
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Clay Tiles – Durable with a timeless aesthetic
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Concrete Tiles – Cost-effective and widely used in modern builds
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Metal Roofing (Zinc, Steel, Aluminium) – Sleek, durable, and lightweight
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Flat Roofing (Felt, Fibreglass, EPDM Rubber) – Great for extensions and garages
Tip: Consider your home’s architectural style and Dublin’s weather before deciding. Also, if you’re in a conservation area, you may be limited to certain materials.
✅ 3. Budget Wisely
A new roof in Dublin can range from €7,000 to over €25,000, depending on the size, complexity, and material.
Make sure your budget includes:
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Materials (tiles, underlay, insulation, etc.)
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Labour and installation
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Scaffolding and waste disposal
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Planning or building permits
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VAT and contingency (10–15%)
Don’t go for the cheapest quote. Instead, aim for best value by comparing materials, warranties, and reviews.
✅ 4. Get the Necessary Permissions
In many cases, especially for like-for-like replacements, you won’t need planning permission. However, there are exceptions in Dublin:
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Protected structures
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Conservation zones
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Major changes to roof height or style
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Adding dormers or skylights
What to do:
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Contact your local Dublin City Council or Fingal/Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown offices
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Check with your contractor—they often handle permissions or advise on requirements
✅ 5. Choose a Qualified New Roof Installation Dublin Contractor
Your roofer makes all the difference. Look for:
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Proven experience with Dublin homes
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Full insurance and Safe Pass certification
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References or online reviews
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Clear, written estimates and contracts
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Guarantees (10–25 years is standard for new roofs)
Ask questions like:
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“How many similar projects have you done?”
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“Will you handle scaffolding and waste disposal?”
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“What warranty do you offer on labour and materials?”
✅ 6. Check the Roofing Timeline
Depending on size and weather, a roof installation typically takes:
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New builds: 7–14 working days
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Replacements: 5–10 working days
Be aware of possible delays due to:
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Bad weather (common in Dublin)
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Material delivery times
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Structural repairs discovered during removal
Plan accordingly, especially if the roofing will impact access to your home or if you’re coordinating with other building work.
✅ 7. Confirm What’s Included in the Job
Before you sign any contracts, make sure the job scope is fully outlined. It should include:
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Removal of old roofing (if applicable)
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Structural checks and timber replacements
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New underlay, battens, insulation, and ventilation
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Roofing materials (tiles, flashing, ridge caps)
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Guttering and drainage installation
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Cleanup and disposal
Tip: Make sure your contractor specifies how they’ll handle unexpected issues (e.g. rot, weather damage, etc.)
✅ 8. Don’t Skimp on Insulation and Ventilation
Insulation and airflow are just as important as the tiles you see from the outside.
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Roof insulation improves energy efficiency and reduces bills
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Ventilation prevents damp, mould, and condensation—especially in Dublin’s damp climate
Ensure your roofer includes proper solutions, especially in attic spaces or flat-roof extensions.
✅ 9. Prepare Your Property
Before installation begins:
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Clear your attic for access
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Protect valuable items from dust
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Inform neighbours if scaffolding affects shared spaces
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Arrange alternative access if needed (especially for full-roof jobs)
Most contractors will manage external prep like scaffolding and skip hire, but it’s good to double-check.
✅ 10. Get Post-Installation Documentation
Once the work is complete, ensure you receive:
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A full invoice
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Warranty or guarantee certificates
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Completion certificate, if required by your lender or insurance
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A maintenance guide, if applicable
This is crucial if you ever plan to sell your home or make an insurance claim.
✅ Bonus Tip: Schedule Annual Inspections
A new roof doesn’t mean “set and forget.” Dublin’s weather can wear on even the best roofing.
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Schedule yearly inspections to catch early signs of damage
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Keep gutters clean to prevent water pooling
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Trim back trees that may interfere with tiles or drainage
Prevention is cheaper than repairs—especially after a harsh winter.
Final Thoughts
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home—and one of the most significant investments you’ll make. By following this Dublin-specific checklist, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and ensure your new roof installation is smooth, safe, and built to last.
Whether you’re upgrading a classic Georgian townhouse or building from the ground up, having the right plan and the right team makes all the difference.
