Roof replacement can be one of the most significant investments you’ll make as a homeowner. Some choose a roof overlay instead of a complete replacement to save time and money. This method involves installing new shingles over the old ones. However, experts are against this practice for the following reasons.
Increased Risk of Decking Damage
Decking is installed over your roof’s frame to create a flat and stable surface for shingle application. It should be sound and intact to ensure your new roof performs well and lasts long. In a roof overlay, your installer won’t have the chance to inspect and replace damaged decking. The entire roofing system could suffer when this component is in bad shape.
Added Structural Load
Adding new materials over existing shingles introduces significant additional weight your house must endure. The combined weight of old and new roofing materials can risk your home’s structural integrity.
More Complex Repairs
With multiple shingle layers, it will be more challenging for roofers to locate leak sources. When moisture infiltrates the sandwiched roofs, it can travel between layers before entering your home, making leak detection and repair difficult.
Doesn’t Permanently Fix Issues
Many aging roofing systems develop issues like mold, mildew or rot. Covering up an old roof with a new one may seem like a convenient solution, but it is essentially ignoring existing problems that do not disappear. These issues can become costlier to resolve later, turning what could have been straightforward repairs into a significant undertaking.
Voided Warranties
Most roofing material warranties require the removal of the old roof to ensure the integrity of the new installation. It means you could lose your warranty coverage because of a roof overlay. Moreover, this approach does not align with the high standards of craftsmanship upheld by reputable roofing contractors and manufacturers.
Do you have an aging or severely damaged roof? Turn to Deschutes Roofing for exceptional roof replacement services. Call us at (541) 313-5944 (Bend), (503) 967-9590 (Portland), (541) 246-6860 (Eugene), (503) 468-7663 (Lake Oswego) or (503) 928-8750 (Beaverton). You can also complete our online form to request an estimate.
