Reasons not to have a new roof installed over an old roof

When it comes to renewing or replacing the entire roof, there are certain factors that need to be considered in advance. Layering asphalt and tile shingles over an existing roof is a good way to replace your old and worn out roof, but it may not be such a profitable idea in every such case. A roof, which is comparatively good in condition, can take an additional layer of asphalt shingle, without facing any such adverse or drastic effects.

The single biggest disadvantage of adding a new layer over an existing roof is the added weight. Buildings are designed to withstand a certain amount of load, and when the limit exceeds it might fail dramatically, causing a serious disaster and even loss of human lives. Depending on the building code, it might be possible to layer a new roof, but there are other problems that one might face in the near future. Asphalt shingles and tiles having a warranty of 30 to 50 years are significantly heavier than the cheaper ones.

The reasons why homeowners are attracted towards this option is minimum renovation work and hence it reduces labor costs. This involves an extra payment to laborers for removing the existing shillings and damaged parts. This option can be considered worthless and dollar wise foolish for the below mentioned following reasons. Legality: Homes in the mid-west are classified as “moderate hail zones” and it is illegal to install a new asphalt roof over an existing one.

Manufacturer warranty: Roofing manufacturers have warranties that protect customers from the cost of replacement when the roof is malfunction. The warranty gets void if a new layer is put on top of it. Winds and improper layering will leave it vulnerable to attack from the elements.

Sealing issues: It is improbable that current shingles will line up with the old ones, and this may lead to serious drainage issues.

Don't Replace Your Roof If All It Needs Is Roof Repair

A good home requires an equally good and well maintained roof. Inspecting your roof and checking out squeaky leaks regularly can always prevent some costly repairs and replacements. Small and easy to do repairs keeps your roof in the best possible condition and always keeps your home happy, dry and warm.

The following conditions will help you decide whether your roof requires replacement or repairs.
• The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends homeowners to do a complete roof inspection at least two times a year during spring and fall season. Start from the attic with a flashlight and check for roof sagging, water damage and leakage, dark spots and outside light through the roof.
• Exterior check is equally crucial with special attention to damaged flashing and missing shingles. Algae growth, moisture spots, blistering, buckling and rotting should be removed as fast as possible.

There are few companies, which specialize in inspection service for your roofs. They provide services such as:
• Visual inspection of your roof for cracked, torn, bald or missing shingles.
• Complete roof scanning for loose materials or wear and tear around chimneys and other weak spots.
• Drainage and gutter check, to watch out for signs of advance wear such as shingle granules and wet spots. Fungi, bacteria, algae and molds can grow very quickly when left unattended in moisture laden warm areas.
• All gutters, downspouts and pipes should be properly attached, free of debris so that water can freely flow.

Everyone needs a roof over his head, and it is one of life’s essentials. Your roof keeps you and your family safe from the elements of nature, and hence it is the duty of the house owner to take proper care of it.

The importance of keeping debris off of your roof

Getting rid of roof debris is never easy.  If you are going to do this yourself to save time, make sure you take the appropriate steps...

1) Clean the area
2) Keep tarps over everything
3) Save any tin or metal to recycle (!!!)
4) Run a magnet after the job to pick up any nails or sharp scraps
5) Make sure that you communicate when  you'll be finished

So, contractors are out to get paid, but you can save roofing repair costs by doing a lil' DIY here and there.  Just make sure they know what you want!