Plenty of homeowners are sold to the idea of overlaying existing asphalt shingles for its convenience and affordability. Installing a completely new roof can cost a lot as the hassle of tearing off the old roof would take a long time and add to the labor costs. Additionally, there’s also the dumping fee for removing your old roofing.
However, adding a second layer of shingles isn’t a simple matter. The truth is that various variables have to be just right for it to work. There are times when it’s better to tear off the old roof and start fresh.
Here are some reasons why adding putting a new layer of shingles over the existing one is not a good idea.
Unattractive Appearance
Roof shingles are meant to be installed on a flat and even surface. A home with a roof that consists of two layers of shingles is easily recognized as it will appear bulkier and also look lumpy.
This usually means that the second layer of shingles was installed on top of a roof have curled or damaged shingles. The curled shingles prevent the new shingles from lying flat on the roof, which affects the roof’s appearance. Hence, the presence of the imperfections on your newly installed shingles.
This will almost certainly lead to problems later on as the shingles become more problematic to mount properly and accurately. Forcing shingles onto bumpy or gap-filled foundations would telegraph the new layer, making the top much harder to secure.
It Hides Roofing Issues That Make Repairs Difficult
Any minor issues of your roof can be fixed by a roofer as they are identified early on. However, these problems will remain hidden if another layer of shingles is added on top of the existing roof. This can result to minor and repairable issues to become worse as time passes.
The structural and aesthetic damage caused by an unaddressed roof issue can still be seen on layered asphalt shingles as the first layer will tend to break down more quickly and retain moisture. This will rot your decking while increasing the likelihood of growing mold and mildew in the home.
However, it’s still unlikely that your roofer would find the root source of the leak. They would need to remove the existing shingles to see the roof decking, thoroughly inspect it, and identify any current issues.
The simple roof repair job can become much more challenging and expensive once the newly installed and the old shingle roof layer has been removed. All because you decided to save money when replacing your roof.
Weight Strain
Most roof structures are designed for a dead load of one layer of shingles with an extra for snow and a safety margin. However, small and older homes are not structurally sound enough to handle any more immense amounts of burden.
Roof materials are already weighty. However, adding a second layer of shingles to your roof will add to the total weight of the roof and make the roof too heavy for your home to support.
The addition of another roof’s worth of weight can cause further roof problems, especially if you live in an area that receives a great deal of snow during winter.
Negative Marks on Inspection Reports
Many homeowners planning to sell their homes soon might be tempted to add new roof shingles over old ones for a quick roofing fix while saving a buck. Why pay for a tear-off if you can get away without it?
Besides, it will be a problem for the next owners. They will be the ones who will get stuck with the additional expense of a two-layer tear down along with any issues that may arise from an improper re-roof job.
As home inspectors are aware of this mentality, they will often spot the layered shingles and mark it as a negative on an inspection report to warn the buyers of the potential problems associated with double-layer roofs.
It will be a better idea to discuss your options with the local real estate pros and home inspectors if your home needs to be roofed before putting it up for sale to be entirely sure of the effects it will have on the sale of your home.
Fahey Roofing Contractors is the trusty roofing contractor that will help with necessary roof repairs and replacement. Check out our residential and commercial roof repair services on our website or contact us at (304) 826-1333 to learn more.