If you’ve ever gotten your roof replaced, you may remember the process. It usually includes an inspection, tearing off old shingles, installing the new ones, and then cleaning up. The entire process of replacing a roof usually doesn’t take too long. In fact, many houses can be done in about a day or two. However, sometimes homeowners will ask if we can install the new shingles over their existing shingles. You may think this saves time or add extra protection to your roof. But adding multiple layers of shingles on top of your home may actually do more harm than good. Here’s why.
Your roofer should be familiar with your local building codes, and most building codes only allow a maximum of two layers of shingles. Outside of shingles, your roof is also made up of decking and underlayment. When you layer new shingles on top of old ones, you aren’t able to see what’s going on underneath the foundation of your roof. So if the layers underneath your old shingles are old and rotten, we won’t be able to see it or fix it.
Even if your roofer DOES allow for more than two layers of shingles, your house or building may not be designed to hold the extra weight of multiple roof layers. Ultimately, having too many layers of shingles could negatively impact the integrity of your roof, causing it to sag over time.
So how many layers of shingles are too many? Two layers are the recommended maximum. But it also depends on other factors, such as the state of your roof and what types of shingles you choose. In some cases, it’s best to stick with just one layer of shingles. The best way to find out is to have your roofer perform an inspection prior to your roof replacement.
Our IBEX Roof experts can help answer all of your questions about getting your roof replaced and how to do it right. Our goal is to make sure your roof lasts as long as possible; we would never want to jeopardize the integrity of your roof. The last thing anyone wants is to replace their roof sooner rather than later! Give us a call today at 360-218-3194 with any questions you may have and we’ll be happy to answer them. Don’t forget to also ask about our roof specials so that you can save on your next roof!
