Most homeowners want to know if it is possible to put a new roof over an old one. The answer is Yes. You can put new shingles over existing shingles that are in good condition.
However, you can only install new shingles over asphalt shingles that meet the re-roof conditions. Also, you cannot mix materials; for instance, you cannot install shingles over wood tiles or slate.
The process of installing a new roof over an old one is called re-roofing, while tearing off the old roof to install a new one is called roof replacement. However, there are several conditions and factors a roofer will consider before undertaking a re-roof.
You will learn re-roof is possible, when you should not re-roof, the benefits of re-roofing, and the disadvantages of re-roofing.
As a homeowner, you may not understand the roofing dynamics. Choosing a re-roof over a roof replacement can only be recommended by a certified roofing contractor like Providence Roofing. Rest assured that you will receive quality roofing services.
Let’s talk about the benefits and the disadvantages of a re-roof versus a roof replacement. Re-roofing is cheap, faster, and convenient compared to roof replacement; however, it has its limitation and can only be done under given conditions.
Some of the reasons why your roof might not be suitable for re-roof include.
1. A re-roof is only possible if you have shingles since you can only place shingles over shingles.
2. You can only install a new roof over an old one if the old roof is completely flat and level.
3. Any time you install a new roof over an old one, you add more weight to the roof. Besides, most building codes will only allow two layers of the roof to your house. So, if you have already done a re-roof, your only option will be to tear off the roof to install a new one.
4. While most building codes allow a maximum of two roof layers, some local codes do not allow multiple roof layers. So, you can only install a single layer of the roof.
Benefits of Putting a New Roof Over and Old One
1.(Cheap) Tearing off an existing roof is not only time-consuming but will cost more.
* re-roofing involves installing a new roof on the old roof; therefore, there will be no tearing off costs.
2. (Faster Installation) Re-roofing involves installing the new roof over the old one—no tearing off involved. Naturally, the task will be easier, and the installation will be quick.
3. (Extra Protection) A new shingle layer is added to an existing old layer, making the roof stronger and more protected.
4. (Convenient) The re-roofing process does away with tearing off, saving time, money, and is less messy. Besides, and you don’t incur cost of the materials torn off from the roof.
Disadvantages of Installing a New Roof Over an Old One
1. (Warranty Violation) Check the manufacturer warranty conditions. Some manufacturers will not warranty new shingles installed on old shingles.
2. (Extra weight) An additional layer of shingles will add more weight to your roof since shingles weigh between 350-450 pounds per square. So, if your roof was designed to hold one layer of roof, you are probably overloading it with a re-roof.
3. (No Visual of Sheathing Boards) Re-roofing will not involve a tear-off; therefore, the roofer will not see how the decks look. The roofer must do a ‘walking inspection’ to identify spongy spots and problems on the roof and fix them before undertaking a re-roof.
4. (Repairs) A new roof layer over an old one will complicate the roofer’s effort to fix a leak. The roofer must undertake thorough checks to identify the problem and fix it entirely.
5. (Replacing Underlayment) A re-roof does not offer room for replacing underlayment. A good example is the roofing paper installed between the sheathing and the shingles. If it wears out, the roofer can’t replace it and can lead to water intrusion in the future.
CONCLUSION:
When choosing a re-roof over a roof replacement, you must consider several factors to enjoy the long lifespan of your roof. To be on the safe side, consult us at Providence Roofing. We are a licensed roofer serving Boone, Hickory, Statesville, and Huntersville NC areas. Give us a call at 704 883-6052 or check out our website at Providence Roofing for your FREE consultation.
