If you are shopping and planning for a new shingle roof, you may be tempted to install the new roof over the old one. In fact, the roofers you have gotten a quote from may have recommended it. Just because a roofer suggests adding a new roof over the old one does not mean it is the right thing to do.
Roofing companies do recommend doing this because it means less of the messy work for them. Craven Construction has been installing new shingle roofs in Arizona for over two decades and we have never installed a shingle roof over an old one. We are going to help you understand why we do not below.
Roof Overlay
When you install a new shingle roof over the old roof, regardless of the material, it is called a roof overlay. The old roofing material is not removed before the new one is installed. Some homeowners do this because it is more cost-effective. Saving a few dollars on a roof sometimes sounds like a great idea. However, just because you save a few dollars up front, does not mean it is the best solution for the long run.
Five Reasons To Not Do A Shingle Roof Overlay
1. Can Only Do It Once
If you are considering a roof overlay, understand that it can only be done once. In Arizona, you cannot have more than two layers of roofing material on any house. Adding more and more layers will result in a code violation. Additionally, your roof likely cannot support additional layers and the roof will eventually fall in.
2. Does Not Repair Underlying Issues
If your roof has major issues, like it is leaking or has significant damage, a re-roof will not repair the underlying issues that have caused the damage. During a typical shingle roof replacement, the existing material is completely removed and an inspection of the remaining materials is completed. This will include the roof deck, flashing, and sealing. When a roof overlay is completed, the first layer of shingles stays so if there is an issue with the materials below, it will go unnoticed. This is one of the primary reasons Craven Construction does not recommend nor complete a shingle roof overlay.
3. Added Weight
Shingles are quite heavy and with a roof overlay, you are doubling the weight of the roof. Most building codes will require the structure to be built to support an additional layer, but before the roof overlay is complete, make sure the walls and foundation are sound. If the structure is not able to withstand the added weight and additional support is required, it may be more cost effective to have a complete new roof installed.
4. Old Roof Will Crumble
Another primary reason to not complete a shingle roof overlay is because over time, the old roof will start to crumble. We say it crumbles like peanut brittle. When this happens, the new upper layer of shingles will float and easily peel up. If your current shingle roof is past its lifespan, it is highly recommended that you do not install another layer of shingles on top. A complete new shingle roof will more than pay for itself!
5. Return on Investment
A roof is a great investment and especially if you are planning on selling your house soon. Home buyers will consider a roof overlay a red flag when looking at a house and either pass up on the house completely or submit a significantly lower than asking price offer. A roof overlay will not increase the value of your home the way a complete shingle roof replacement would. If you are looking for a return on your investment, opt for a full replacement and not a roof overlay.
What is best for yoour home?
As a homeowner looking to save a few dollars, a roof overlay might sound appealing. A roof overlay will not provide the same quality as a new roof installation. The longer you put off a full replacement, and opt for an overlay, the worse the results could be. You might not discover underlying issues and the older shingles could crumble over time. If you are looking for a better return on investment and a roof that will last 20-30 years, you are better off having the roof removed and a new one installed.
Craven Construction does not complete roof overlays because they can easily falter. If you are in need of a new shingle roof, call our office today. Our team is highly skilled and a top rated roofing company in the East Valley! Schedule a FREE estimate and trust that you will be well cared for by an honest roofer!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.