Making sure your roof is in good shape is an important home improvement that will give you peace of mind. But purchasing a new roof isn’t cheap, so before you go through all the expenses of getting a full roof replacement also known as reroofing, you’ll want to explore whether reroofing or a roof replacement is the best choice for you.
Reroofing and roof replacements sound like the same thing, but they are quite different. So, what exactly is the difference?
What is Reroofing?
Reroofing, sometimes referred to as a roof restoration, is simply installing a layer of new shingles over an existing asphalt shingle roof. This new overlay of shingles restores the look of your roof while adding a protective layer over the existing shingles on your roof.
Reroofing is used to quickly rejuvenate the appearance of a roof and to prevent leaks. For homeowners who need a quick solution to fix their roof, reroofing is a cheaper, temporary solution.
Reroofing can only be applied to asphalt shingles roof. Since reroofing consists of adding an overlay of asphalt shingles over your roof, it is not recommended to reroof on top of other roofing materials such as metal. It is also impossible to reroof if your roof already has more than one layer.
Pros of Reroofing
Easy to Install
Reroofing does not take much time to install. Since reroofing doesn’t involve tearing off the old roof, it saves the roofers man hours of work that it would take to remove the old shingles, depending on the size of the roof.
A second layer of shingles can be easily installed over the old roof without the extra labor and time it takes to tear off the old shingles. This makes it simpler and quicker to reroof than to completely replace your residential roofing.
Reinforces the Roof
Reroofing adds another layer of shingles on top of a pre-established layer so that your roof is reinforced and strengthened by the overlayer. The extra layer of shingles offers stronger protection against extreme weather conditions and makes the roof more impervious to leaks.
New Look
Reroofing rejuvenates your roof and gives it a fresh new look. If your roof is looking worn, it’s a cheap, quick way to make your roof look new.
Cons of Reroofing
Requires Certain Qualifications
Depending on the condition of the roof, it may not be suitable for reroofing. Building codes prohibit reroofing under certain conditions.
Some factors that rule out reroofing are:
Short Lifespan
Reroofing will not last a roof replacement. Reroofing can last up to about 16 years. In general, reroofing is meant to be a temporary solution, not a long-term installment.
Increases Weight on the Roof
With two layers of shingles on your roof, your roof will double in weight. This puts a lot more strain on the frame and structure of your home.
Can’t Inspect for Damages
When a roof is replaced, the roofers can inspect the roof decking when they tear off the old roof.
Because reroofing doesn’t involve tearing off the old shingles, roofers don’t have the opportunity to see the structure below and spot issues with the roof early on. And so, roofers can’t check the underlayer of the roof, which could be problematic, if your roof needs repairs, you won’t be able to detect it with a reroofing.
Voids Warranties
Reroofing can void a manufacturers’ warranty. If you are concerned about voiding your warranty, then check the warranty to determine if it will still be valid after a reroofing.
Resale Value
Reroofing is generally intended to be a more temporary roofing option, which isn’t appealing to prospective buyers, as it might mean that they will have to replace the roof soon. As a result, reroofing can lower the resale value of a home.
Traps Heat
The double layer of shingles with reroofing traps heat. Not only will this make the house hotter and increase your electric bill in the summertime but trapped heat can decrease the lifespan of shingles as extreme heat can cause shingles to crack or curl.
PROVIDENCE ROOFING LLC is your trusted roofer. We can help you make the best decisions for you and your family. There are many options available to you in terms of roofers, but when it comes to roofers in Hickory NC or roofers in Huntersville NC, we strive to lead the way. We also serve the Boone NC and Statesville NC areas. Check us out Providence Roofing or call today for a free estimate 704 883-6052.
