Laying New Shingles Over Old Roofs
It is possible to install a new set of shingles over the old one, and the main benefit to doing this is cost savings. Doing it this way can save the considerable cost of tearing off the old roof, which can be $1,000 or more. It also saves the cost of all of the new preparation. There is prep work involved in a reroof, such as removing vents and damaged shingles, but a tearoff of the old roof and installation of a completely new one is far more work.
Although this may sound like a great way to save money, and perhaps add double protection to a roof, it may not be the best idea for a number of reasons. A professional roofing company such as Ocean County roofing can advise on the advantages and disadvantages related to a particular situation.
Shingles are designed for flat surfaces, and adding new ones over a lumpy surface may not look very professional. Shingles are also very heavy, and the roof structure may not have been designed to support two levels of shingles. That can lead to sagging.
When reroofing, there is no chance to inspect the underlayment to check for any wear or defects. This is a crucial part of the waterproofing of the house, and any damage here is critical.
A good roofer will make a careful inspection for any damage, and will carry out localized repairs. This is not the same as being able to inspect or replace the entire surface. The same is true of an ice shield. It is not possible to add this protection to a reroof.
A reroofing may affect the warranty on the new shingles. Generally speaking, most localities do not allow more than two layers of shingles, and some do not allow reroofing at all. It is important to check with the local municipality before choosing this option.
Finally, a reroof may have a negative impact on the value of a house since the eventual cost of tearing off 2 roofs is being passed onto the buyer. A building inspector will note this, and may warn the prospective buyer of the potential problems.
For all of these reasons, it is important to seek out a reputable roofing company to discuss the pros and cons of reroofing a home based on each individual circumstance. The cost savings will certainly be attractive, and it’s possible that the value of the home may not warrant the purchase of an entirely new roof. A roofing contractor from Fortified Roofing of Ocean County NJ can answer your questions about skylights or roof repairs.
Term explained by roofing company Fortified Roofing, Ocean County NJ:
Tearoff
The costly, messy and labor-intensive process of removing an old roof including its shingles, underlayment and flashing. The savings in money, time and disruption from avoiding the tearoff is the main reason some homeowners choose to reroof their homes.
Ocean County roofing company Fortified Roofing answers a question:
Is it possible to reroof a home in a completely different style?
Generally speaking, it is not possible. The only roofing material that can be reroofed or layered is asphalt shingles. It is not possible to reroof with cedar shakes or slate, and most roofers recommend reroofing with laminated or dimensional shingles, which are thicker and hide defects in the underlying shingles better. To the extent that there are asphalt shingles in a different style which a roofer can work with, that would be the only option for change.
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If you would like to ask a question regarding roofers, a new roof installation, roof leak repairs, skylight options or gutters and downspouts please contact Fortified Roofing today!
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