Re-Roofs (Pros & Cons)
- Thomas Szkutak
- Oct 24, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 11
Roof replacement and repair decisions should not be made lightly. After all roofing services do not come cheap.
When it comes to roofing, many homeowners face the dilemma of whether to remove the old materials before installing a new roof or simply layer new roofing over the existing roof. While the latter option might seem convenient and cost-effective, it’s essential to understand the potential risks associated with this approach. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of re-roofs (roof-over) and roof replacements (roof removal).
Re-Roofing Pros
The main advantage of re-roofing is that it’s significantly less labor intensive than tearing off a roof and starting from a bare roof deck. It’s also usually less expensive since you don’t have to pay for the disposal and transportation costs of the existing roofing materials. Additionally, a new roofing layer can help protect your existing structure from water damage, as well as provide extra insulation for your home.
Re-Roofing Cons
A major downside to re-roofing is that if there are any problems with your existing roof, such as rotting wood or damaged flashing, It won’t be fixed when a new roofing layer Is added on top.
This can cause further damage down the line and may end up costing more in repairs overall.
Additionally, some cities require permits for re-roofing due to local building codes and regulations. So, make sure you check with your building department before making any decisions on re-roofing!
Generally roofing Contractor's advises against re-roofing, some roofing Contractors may even refuse to provide re-roofs as an optional service. The negatives of re-roofing far outweigh the positives.
Poor Inspection
A primary reason to avoid layering new shingles over old ones is the compromised inspection of your roof’s underlying structure. When a new layer of shingles is installed directly over the existing ones, it becomes challenging for roofing professionals to thoroughly inspect the roof deck. Problems like rot, mold, or structural damage can go unnoticed, leading to costly repairs down the road.
A proper inspection of the roof deck is crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of your new roof. By removing the old shingles, roofing contractors can assess the condition of the substrate, address any problems, and create a clean, reliable foundation for the new roofing materials.
Weight Strain
Adding a new layer of shingles atop the old ones significantly can double the weight of your roof. Shingles are heavier than they may appear, and multiple layers can put unnecessary strain on the roof structure. Over time, this additional weight can lead to structural issues, including sagging or even collapse in extreme cases.
Roofing systems are designed to bear specific loads and exceeding these limits can jeopardize the safety and integrity of your home. It’s essential to consult with a professional roofing contractor. Allowing them to determine if your existing roof can handle the weight of another layer of shingles or if a full replacement is necessary.
Building Regulations
In many regions, building codes and regulations dictate how roofing projects should be carried out. Installing new shingles over old ones may not comply with these codes, especially if you are re-roofing a commercial space. Building codes are in place to ensure the safety and quality of construction. Ignoring them can result in fines, complications with insurance claims, and even difficulties selling in the future.
To avoid potential legal and safety issues, it’s crucial to work with a licensed roofing contractor who is well-versed in local building codes and regulations. They will ensure that your roofing project adheres to all applicable rules and standards.
Voids the Warranty
Roofing materials often come with warranties provided by the manufacturer. These warranties typically require that the products be installed according to specific guidelines. Installing a new roof layer over old ones may void the manufacturer’s warranty, leaving you without coverage in case of defects or premature failures.
Ensuring your roofing materials are covered by their warranties, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. This often involves removing the existing shingles and properly preparing the roof deck before installing the new roofing materials.
Costly Repairs & Replacements
While putting a new roof over the old roof may seem like a cost-effective solution, it can lead to more expensive repairs and eventually a complete roof replacement. As mentioned earlier, the added weight and compromised inspection can result in structural issues that require costly fixes. Underlying problems go unnoticed, they can worsen over time, leading to even more extensive and expensive repairs.
Additionally improper roof-overs can significantly reduce your roof life expectancy by wearing down the new roofing quicker. When it does come time to replace your roof, the cost will be significantly higher due to the added difficulty and extra costs associated with multiple roofing layers.
Roof Replacement Pros
When you tear off an existing roof and start from a bare roof deck, it gives contractors an opportunity to inspect all aspects of your roof structure for any potential issues that need to be addressed before installing a new roof deck. This includes inspecting any underlying components such as metal flashing or vents which may have been damaged by age or weather conditions over time. By doing this inspection prior to installation, potential problems can be identified and repaired so that they won’t cause further damage down the line – saving time and money in the long run!
Roof Replacement Cons
The main downside to tearing off an entire roof is obviously cost – both in terms of time (labor hours) and materials (new shingles). On average, tearing off an entire roof takes twice as long as relaying new shingles over an existing layer – meaning higher labor costs overall. Additionally, some cities require permits specifically for removal/replacement projects due to local building codes; so again, make sure you check with your building department before making any decisions on tearing off an existing roof!
When deciding between re-roofing or tearing off an entire existing rooftop system, homeowners should consider both options carefully – weighing out pros vs cons based on their individual needs and budget constraints. In most cases though, it’s usually best practice to tear off the old layers and start from a bare roof deck – allowing experienced contractors a chance to inspect underlying components and repair anything that may have been compromised by age/weather over time – saving homeowners money and headache overall!
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