Should You Build Over Your Existing Roof?

MHI Roofing in Pittsburgh, PA

When it’s time for a new roof you have a couple options to pick from, you can either remove the old roof or replace it with a new one. You can also build over your existing roof. When trying to decide between the two there are a few options to think about, such as your budget and the condition of your current roof. There are some things to check for when choosing your style of roofing installation.

  • Asphalt shingles. If you have them, you will need to remove them since you cannot mix materials.
  • Two layers of Shingles. Adding a third layer would cause your roof to be too heavy which could cause damage in the future.
  • Your old shingles are curling. Your shingles can begin to curl over time or with too much heat. Roofing requires a flat surface so the curled shingles will need to be removed.
  • Visible damage. If you have visible damage, such as mold or rot, you will need to remove it instead of roofing over it. Covering the damage would just cause more problems in the future.

roof installation by MHI Roofing in Pittsburgh

If you need help, MHI Roofing will assess your roof and inform you of building over it is an option. If there is a possibility, you might need to decide whether or not you are going to build over your old roof or remove it completely. There are pros and cons to both situations. Roofing over your existing roof will save time and money. Without tearing off the old roof you will save thousands in roofing installation. Also you will not have to pay anyone to remove the old shingles. You will be able to skip the process of removing the old roof so it will save you time as well.

There are some cons to building over your old roof. If a problem occurs it will not be as easy to see or find. Sometimes the issue may even go unnoticed, it may end up that you have to remove the newer roof to get to the old roof to repair the damage, which will cost more. More shingles means more heat will become trapped in the shingles, if the shingles become too hot will start to curl causing harm to your roof. It is important to take all these factors into consideration when you are thinking about remodeling your roof. If you are unsure you can always talk to a roofing installation expert and learn more about what is best for you home.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE:

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION