Why Installing New Roofing Shingles Over the Old May Not Be a Good Idea

Replacing your entire roof can be an expensive proposition. That’s why some homeowners often choose re-roofing, or installing a roofing shingles over the old ones. While there are some instances where this can make sense, in most cases it is not a very good idea. Here’s why.

Extra Weight Can Strain the Home Structure

As opposed to a full roof replacement where the old shingles are stripped from the roof, exposing the deck, re-roofing involves putting down new shingles over the old ones to restore the look of your roof as well as add an extra layer of protection. In many areas, it is prohibited to add more than two layers of shingles since the additional shingles add a lot of weight to the roof. 

More Heat Absorption Leads to Faster Wear and Tear

According to most roof repair experts, the shingles in re-roofing tend to absorb more heat which tends to wear them down a lot quicker. A re-roofing job will not last as long as a roof replacement, making it less cost-effective.  

Doesn’t Address Underlying Roof Damage

Because you are not getting rid of the old shingles, there is no way to know if there is extensive damage to the underlying components of the roofing system. You could be dealing with major issues such as rot or sagging and not even know it. While a complete replacement is definitely the more expensive option, it may be worth the investment in the long run since it allows you to address all issues with your roofing system.

Whether you are in need of roof cleaning services or are thinking about replacing your entire roof, turn to the experts over at Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC for help. To book a free consultation, please give us a call at (954) 989-7794 or fill out our contact form and one of our friendly team members will be more than happy to assist you. We serve home and business owners in Pembroke, Coral Springs and Hollywood, FL.