Are you having any issues with your roof lately? If you notice your shingles are damaged, you may be wondering, can you repair a roof with two layers of shingles? The answer is no. While it may seem like a quick and cheap fix, adding a second layer of shingles over the old ones will actually cause more damage than good.
At Sol Vista Roofing, we educate you about roofing facts and solutions so that you can make the best decision for your home. In this blog, we will explore why two layers of shingles are bad for a roof and explain the right solution that will ensure the longevity and safety of your roof.
Can You Put New Shingles Over Old Shingles To Repair The Damage?
If your goal is to repair the roof and fix the root cause of the problem, you should not cover the damaged shingles with a new set of shingles. This method is not recommended by professionals and industry standards, as it can compromise the functionality and durability of your roof. While the cost to add a second layer of shingles may seem low, it will eventually lead to more expensive repairs and replacements.
Let’s look at the consequences of installing new shingles over damaged ones.
What Are Some Serious Problems With Two Layers Of Shingles?
Adding a second layer of shingles is not an alternative for repairs. It’s a bad roofing practice that can lead to many problems later down the road. Not only will doing this cause issues with your roofing system but for many other aspects like insurance and product warranties.
#1 More Layers Lead To More Leaks
Simply covering the surface damage means that the first layer of shingles is just going to hide the source of the leak. By not finding the source of the damage you will soon have bigger problems, such as wood rot and mold growth inside the home. As stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, living in a space with mold and algae is dangerous for your health.
#2 Heavy Shingles Cause Structural Damage
Adding an additional layer of shingles increases the weight of the roof’s structure, which can cause damage, such as warping, sagging, or cracking of the wood decking and structural components. This can lead to leaks, water damage, and even roof collapse.
#3 Improper Insulation & Ventilation Raises Energy Bills
Adding a second layer of shingles affects the insulation and ventilation of your home. It makes the space below it even more closed off, and creates an uneven surface that traps heat and debris. This results in higher energy costs during the summertime. It also creates tiny spaces for insects to make a home in your roof.
#4 Multiple Layers Of Shingles Void Product Warranties
Installing a second layer of shingles voids the product warranties for both layers of shingles, meaning that the manufacturer will not cover any defects or damages that occur. Are you wondering if insurance covers a roof with 2 layers of shingles? Most companies may not insure a roof that’s already in bad condition and suggest appropriate repairs and replacements before insuring it.
#5 Negligence Causes Issues During Insurance Claims
You will have problems filing insurance claims if you have a second layer of shingles on your roof because most insurance companies will not cover damage caused by two layers of shingles. That’s because it counts as improper roof maintenance and negligence, which can leave homeowners with unexpected expenses for repairs or replacement.
#6 Poor Roof Condition Reduces Your Home’s Resale Value During Appraisals
Considering the multiple problems caused by two layers of shingles, it’s no wonder that installing them reduces a home’s resale value during appraisals by almost 15%. This is because the appraisers understand that a second layer of shingles is problematic and is a sign that the roof will quickly deteriorate. They also suspect that this sign of negligence may be evident in other parts of the home as well. This can negatively impact the overall value of the home.
So, what’s the solution? Can you replace just a few shingles that are damaged? Let’s find out!
Choose The Correct Way To Repair Damaged Shingles
The first step is to mark the damage and take pictures and videos. Next, do thorough research on your local roofing contractors and shortlist a few good ones with a high number of 5-star ratings and positive reviews. To prevent void insurance claims, it’s also a requirement by most companies that a licensed roofing contractor does the work.
Step 1: Take Advantage Of Professional Consultation, Roof Inspection & Estimates
From your list, call the most reliable roofing company and ask whether they offer a free consultation, inspection, and estimate. If they do, discuss your roofing problems with their experts and schedule a free roof inspection. Some contractors may also charge for this service, but your choice should ultimately depend on the the contractor’s location, experience and reputation.
Highly rated local roofers are usually the best choice when it comes to residential roofing because they know the area and prefer to maintain their reputation by doing what’s best for their customers. They won’t tell you to replace your roof when repairing is the solution.
Step: 2 Read Your Roof Inspection Report
On the day of the scheduled inspection, a roof inspector will examine your roof thoroughly and provide you with a comprehensive report on the condition of your roof. The condition report will consider factors such as budget, aesthetics, and durability, and recommend the best course of action to take. A roof inspection also helps you in your home appraisal and roof insurance claim process.
Note: Removing Damaged Shingles Is Important
During the inspection, the roofing contractor will have to remove the damaged shingles, to properly inspect the interior layers of the roof and determine the extent of the damage. This will ensure proper repair or replacement of any damaged layers and increase the longevity of the new roof components.
Step 3: Repair & Replace The Damaged Parts Of The Roof
Shingle roofing systems include several other parts and layers, like flashing, framing, decking, underlayment, and insulation. It’s essential to repair or replace any damaged components, especially the leak-prone areas of the roof, before installing new shingles. This will make sure that all the issues with your roof are taken care of before they become the reason for a costly replacement in the future.
For homes in hail-prone states like Colorado and Ohio, it’s all the more critical for you to have a roof that protects your family and property during stormy weather conditions. If you live in Denver, Aurora, Castle Rock, or elsewhere in the Front Range, we are here to restore your roof with utmost care and professionalism.
Free Consultation & Estimate On Roof Repairs
When it comes to the safety of your family and home, you don’t want to take any shortcuts. At Sol Vista Roofing, we understand the importance of a beautiful, secure, and durable home. That’s why we work hard to deliver the most reliable and fair roof repair services to our customers.
We use the latest technology and equipment while maintaining the highest level of professionalism. Our experts will work closely with you to understand your needs, budget, and preferences to provide you with an honest and transparent assessment of your roof’s condition. After that, we’ll recommend the most feasible solution for damaged shingles and other parts of your roof.
Call us at (720)-712-3516 for a free roof inspection, and estimate of roof repairs. Hundreds of Colorado homeowners have trusted us over the years, and we look forward to helping you too.
