Should A New Roof Ever Be Installed Over A New One?

Reroofing is the process of putting a new roof installation over an old one.

While there are some who believe this can be done in certain circumstances with good results, most roofers recommend against it for many valid reasons.

What reasons are there for reroofing and why should it be avoided?

Here are the facts from experienced roofers who understand the pros and cons of reroofing and that the disadvantages greatly outweigh the benefits.

Why Choose Reroofing Rather Than A Whole New Roof?

Why do some homeowners choose reroofing over a brand new roofing installation? Usually, it boils down to money.

Reroofing removes all the hours of labor required to tear off the old roof and the disposal fees for getting rid of the old materials.

In situations where there is no other choice, some roofers are willing to do a new roof installation over an existing one as long as the existing shingles are still in reasonably good condition and there are no signs of leaks or other damage; however, generally speaking, most recommend against it.

Reasons Reroofing is Not a Wise Choice

Even though reroofing over an older roofing installation that is still functioning is an option for avoiding the potential damage of leaving things alone for another year or two, it guarantees nothing.

In addition, there are many other reasons why the practice should be avoided whenever possible.

Reroofing may save a homeowner money initially, but experienced roofers who have seen the downside of this practice can point out the many ways that it ends up costing a homeowner more in the long run.

Not only does it double the weight of the roofing on the building which could result in structural damage to the rafters and trusses, but it can make diagnosing problems like leaks that form over time, ventilation problems, and other concerns much more difficult.

A second roof installation laid on top of an existing one will not be as watertight as it should be, meaning leaking is more likely as is the chance of shingles being blown off in high winds.

On top of everything else, when the time finally comes to remove both roofing installations at once for a correct roof to be put on, the tear-off and debris disposal will cost twice as much.

For this reason, people who are house shopping are recommended to avoid purchasing a home that has been reroofed. That “new” roof installation that would normally increase the value of the home when done correctly might decrease its value and make it less desirable instead.

Based on these significant reasons, experienced roofers strongly recommend against putting a new roof on top of an older roofing installation.

Anyone considering doing so need only have this conversation with a roofing contractor to understand the many reasons why in most cases it is a bad idea!