Roofing Overlay (Don’t do it!)

ROOFING OVER AN EXISTING ROOF

Many roofing companies will suggest putting a new layer of asphalt shingles over an old layer of asphalt shingles. While it’s less expensive, quicker, and easier we don't do it as a best practice of our company because of the inherent long term bad effects that it can have. In the long run it’ll end up costing you more money. Basically a roof overlay is done if you have an old roof that needs replacing as a cheaper short term alternative. Your roof could be leaking, it could be losing granules, and if you just simply place a new roof over that. The issue is that you're adding quite a bit of weight to a roof structure that probably wasn't designed for that. Per code, you're allowed two layers, but just as a best practice, we always tear it all the way down. So while the added weight is one consideration, it's also we need to pull off the old layer or layers (you could have more than just one) to inspect the roof structure. So it could be skip sheeting, it could be plywood. We’ll check the overall condition of the structure, is it in okay shape? Is it rotted? Is it damaged? Does it have holes in it? What's the condition of it? So that we can reinforce that, if needed, or replace some different parts of it in order to put our new underlayment and the new roofing on. 

At that point you're able to do different roof types. You don't just have to stick with asphalt shingles. We can talk to you about your options. The bottom line is, Resilient Roofing does not believe is just layering on top of your old roof with a new roof. We look for long term solutions that are the most economic and safe for you and your family.