A roof is an important component of your home. It protects the structure, keeps your family safe, and adds value when it comes time to sell. Repairing or replacing a roof can sound like a lot of work at a significant expense, but depending on the reason for the damage, it doesn’t have to be.
If you currently have a double layer of shingles on your roof and are looking to replace it, we can work with your insurance company to save you thousands of dollars. It may be surprising to know that most building codes do not allow roofers to repair an existing double-layered roof. It must be replaced instead. Insurance companies see the value in replacing older, double-layered shingles with a new, single layer. That means we can work with them to get your claim approved or upgrade your roof, which may make you eligible for a discount on your homeowners premium. Let our contractors and private adjusters handle the conversations with your insurance company to save you money and ensure a safer home.
How do you know you have a double-layer shingle roof? Your roofing contractor will know when they come to inspect the roof. They can explain why it may have been done by previous owners. Or you may have worked with a prior contractor that told you an additional layer of roofing over the original roof would be cheaper than tearing it off and hauling the materials away. If you’ve approached roof replacement like this in the past, let’s go over the pros and cons of double-layered shingles you may want to consider.
Advantages of Double-Layered Shingles
Lower Cost. When roofers are simply putting new shingles over the old, it eliminates having to strip off the initial layer. This saves money on both labor and hauling away the waste.
Faster Turnaround. Since the roofers are not stripping off old shingles, they can install the new shingles over the old ones quickly.
Disadvantages of Double Layered Shingles
Function. Shingles are designed to be on a flat surface, so while they can perform sitting on top of old shingles, they will lose functionality as the old shingles start to cup or curl. This affects how long the roof will last and the insurance provider’s decision to pay for new shingles.
Added Weight. You will be adding double the shingle weight to your roof with a second layer. If you get a lot of snow or debris on your roof, it may not be able to handle the load. You could wind up with a more significant problem on your hands if your structure starts to sag.
Warranty Issue. Check the warranty on the new shingles. Placing them over old shingles may void it because heat can get trapped between the layers and warp them. Our team will provide you with warranty information on your new shingles upfront.
Codes. Check your local building codes. While some may allow for two layers of shingles, others will only allow one. This determination can be driven by the types of adverse weather in the area and how much weight it could potentially add to the roof.
Resale. If you plan to sell your home down the road, a double layer of shingles may throw up red flags on the inspection report. You can check with home inspectors in your area to see what problems it may cause during resale.
If You Think You Might Have a Claim …
Replacing a double layer roof can become tricky when it involves a second layer of shingles and if they were improperly installed. Getting a free consultation to discuss your situation and examine the roof is simple. Rose Roofing does not recommend double-layer shingles due to the disadvantages. If our experts determine your roof needs an upgrade that can be covered by insurance, we will take you through the entire process, from roofing estimates to the payment of the claim. Our trustworthy team is here to serve you, save you money, and give you peace of mind. If you need a reliable roofing contractor, contact us today.
Sources:
https://www.networx.com/article/can-you-lay-new-roof-shingles-over-old
