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.
