New Metal Roof Over Old Metal Roof

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New Metal Roof Over Old Metal Roof

The use of metal roofing has been growing in popularity over the use of other types of roofing due to the lower cost and longer life span. The durable metal materials that make up most roofs have proven to cost less in terms of installation and maintenance.

However, these materials also reach a limit to their longevity and eventually need to be replaced. Because of the structure of these types of roofs, home and business owners are met with 3 options. First is to replace the entirety of the roof by tearing off the old roof and putting in place a new one. The second is to restore the old roof by coating it with new paint or waterproofing material. The last option involves retrofitting a new metal roof over the old roof.

Metal Roofing

Durability, design, energy efficiency, and fire resistance are the main features that entice homeowners and business owners alike to opt for metal roofing systems. A new metal roof is expected to last more than 50 years with the right maintenance and care. Residential homes are now opting for the use of metal roofs as well. The benefits these types of roofs provide home owners allows them to integrate new home renovations that are sure to last them years. Unfortunately, restoration and replacements are still necessary for this type of roofing.

Restoring Old Metal Roofs

Restoring or coating an old roof is not advisable in cases where the roof is already so badly deteriorated that its structural integrity is questionable. This is not safe and will only serve as a temporary extension on your roof’s lifespan; an extension that would most likely only give you a few months to a few years in value. It would be better to completely replace the entire roof than try to fix one that has clearly outlived its purpose.

Luckily, if your roof is still in good condition, a restoration project can have highly beneficial outcomes. Minor leaks and early signs of corrosion can be addressed through restoration.

Restoration involves the application of a protective layer. Applying this coat every few years will help to extend your metal roof’s lifespan. Prolonging the need for the high cost of roof replacement that would take days to do. Overall, it’s an important maintenance step that can extend your roof’s life.

Replacing Metal Roofs

When a roof has not been maintained well over the years, it will require a full replacement. Signs of deterioration such as rusting and the formation of holes on the surface of the metal roof are no longer fixable with a protective coating. For the safety of the homeowners or the residents of a building, the metal roof will need to be replaced.

Installation Over Existing Roofs

A metal roofing system can be installed over old roofing systems, whether the old roofs are shingle roofs, flat roofs, or even metal roofs. While a complete tear-off of the old roof is recommended, installing a second metal roof over the original roof is cost-effective and time-efficient. This process is also known as retrofit roofing.

A major benefit of retrofit roofing is the installation of better insulation that can help minimize electric bills by conserving energy. With a better insulated roof, heat loss or heat gain are less of a problem to the property owner. The addition of an added layer of insulation between the old and new roof also makes it safer for the team as they install the new roof. Since the old roof is not removed and remains in place, no hazardous leading edges can affect safety.

Metal over metal retrofitting also has specific benefits. Less costly than a full replacement because there is no labor required to remove old roof. There is also less disruption on the property. The added layer provides extra protection for the building. The roofing contractor also requires less access to property since the team only has to work on exterior fittings. The entire roofing project is will take a lot less time than a full replacement.

Disadvantages of Retrofitting

Unfortunately, there are a few potential problems that property owners and contractors are met with when installing a new metal roof over an old one. One of the most common problems is when water vapor is trapped between the 2 roof layers. This can cause moisture to build up from within and cause mold, rot, and rusting to develop. A preventive measure that experienced roofers take is to install a vented metal roof.

Depending on when you need a new roof and your budget for the project, retrofitting systems are a great cost-effective and quick solution to getting a new metal roof on your property. A full metal roof replacement is still recommended as it has more benefits in the long run.

If you’re looking to get a new metal roof and would like to know your options, the experts at Proven Contracting are ready to help you out with advice backed by years of experience installing, replacing, and repairing roofs all over New Jersey.