Re-roofing Over Existing Shingles

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Re-roofing Over Existing Shingles

Re-roofing and roof replacements can be one of the biggest moments in a homeowner’s life. That fresh new layer of shingles and roof paint will help set the tone and overall ambiance of your home and roof for decades to come. Additionally, the re-roofing process can also be stressful since it will involve tearing off your roof and replacing the roofing materials with a fresh new layer. Moreover, you’ll need to spend thousands of dollars on labor costs and materials while you have to look for a temporary place to stay far from your roof that’s being worked on.

Since the process will usually take a week on average while there’s potential hazardous debris being left everywhere while the process is being done, there are homeowners who would choose to circumvent the whole re-roofing process. 

If the conditions for re-roofing are just right, having a new layer of shingles over an older layer won’t result in damages or problems. However, the installation process must be prepared and planned out well so that no issues will arise. 

But before we get into how we can prepare our older layer to pave the way towards newer layers, we have to first look at why or why shouldn’t be re-roof over existing shingles. 

Advantages of Re-roofing

Faster And Less Labor

One of the main reasons why most homeowners would rather re-roof or overlay over existing shingles is that it can help expedite the reroofing process. Normally, a roof replacement will take a week on average to be done. Skipping the whole roof tearing process can save time, energy, and money that would have towards a labor-intensive process.

Can Integrate The Older Layer

Having another layer of shingles can mean that homeowners can have the opportunity in making their roof more attractive and durable. Usually, homeowners that are on the path of storms and other recurring natural calamities will need to adapt to the harsh weather conditions. By using the appropriate shingles, this can extend the overall lifespan and durability of the roof and the home’s foundations. 

Moreover, the older layer of shingles can also serve as a guide for laying the new set of shingles. In most cases, the new layer of shingles will adhere to the shape and design of the older layer. To make sure that there are no issues with your newer layer adhering to your older layer, it’s best to contact your local roofing contractor for this.  

Disadvantages of Placing Shingles Over Another Layer

Conceals Damages 

As with any other roofing technique, there’s always a trade-off. There’s a reason why most roofing contractors would go against this technique and it’s because it can inadvertently lead to more problems. If the older layer of shingles has not been properly checked for any damages and any inconsistencies, this can lead to damages on the newer layer. 

Moreover, this means that the damages that your older layer had is concealed and will be harder to repair. 

Affects Roofing Reports 

If you’re planning on increasing your home’s monetary value, then overlaying shingles on top of one another isn’t the right decision to make. The primary duties of roof inspectors are to extensively identify damages on your roof. When you’re overlaying or covering your older layer of shingles, you are effectively concealing damages that could negatively affect your roofing report. 

Voids Warranties 

Manufacturers of roofing materials will usually have warranties for their products. In this case, architectural shingles, luxury shingles, and slate tile roofs have long warranty durations since most manufacturers know that these materials will last a long time. However, most warranties are also quite explicit on what they cover. 

More warranties do not cover overlaying since it can cover damages and interfere with the inspection process. 

How to Re-roof Over Existing Shingles

Remove Caps

Before anything else, you’ll need to first remove the ridge caps of your roof so you can easily take off the other parts of your roof easily. 

Remove Obstacles

Naturally, your roof will have other structures and materials like air vents and skylights. It’s best to remove these obstructions on your roof. If you think that these said materials are beyond their life expectancy, then it’s better to replace them. 

Repair Shingles

The best way to repair cracked and broken shingles are to glue it with roofing cement. If there is a broken piece, then it’s recommended that you cut a piece over the broken area that will fit appropriately. The goal here is to make your roof as flat and as clean as possible. 

Clean Your From Of Debris

Finally, right after you’re done with repairing your shingles and making sure that your roof is flat, it’s time to start clearing debris off your roof. Sweep and clear twigs, leaves, and other debris that might interfere with your roof’s efficiency. 

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