Can I Re-Roof Over My Existing Roof?

Roofing Over an Existing Roof

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, "Can I just shingle over my existing roof?"

Although this option might seem like the most cost effective way to go, it’s a bit like closing a door to keep from seeing what's in a room. You no longer see the problem, but the damage is still underneath - and it’s not going to get any better, it's only going to get worse the longer the actual issues are ignored.

Most local building codes allow homes to have up to two layers of shingles, so it’s definitely possible to shingle over an existing roof. With two layers of shingles, however, you risk putting too much weight on the structure of the home. For this reason, the majority of building codes don’t permit a home to have more than two layers of roofing materials.  Additionally, some roofing shingles would not be able to be covered over.

Another downside of placing shingles on top of an existing roof is the cost of additional labor when it comes time to rip everything off and install a new roof. Instead of paying for one tear-off, it will cost you more as they will be doing a double tear-off. Additionally, you put yourself in the position of playing a "find the leak" scavenger hunt in the event the roof starts to leak down the road. Now, instead of trying to locate a leak under a single layer of shingles, you must try to find the source of the problem under two shingle layers.

Additionally, placing shingles on top of shingles typically (but not always - depending on the type of shingles) voids any manufacturer’s warranty that protects you in the event of a defect in the new shingles. So, if a problem arises in the future, you may not be able to rely on a warranty to cover the cost of repairs or replacement.  Make sure you know what the manufacturer's warranty covers in the event you are having shingles put on top of shinges - preferably BEFORE you do it.

On the other hand, some new materials can go over existing roofs without causing a lot of additional weight, but again, they should not be used for damage control.  

Contact Lowry Roofing Co for a free roof inspection.  The professionals at Lowry Roofing Co can assess your roof and give you a precise rundown on any concerns as well as options to repair or replace your roof.