Roofing Over Existing Shingles

If conditions are right new shingles laid over old shingles can be just as attractive and durable as shingles laid on bare sheathing.

Roofing over existing shingles.

Installation is easier than for a tear off job because you can use the existing shingles as guides for laying the new ones. When roofing over your existing shingles can be a good idea when you should tear off your roof and start from scratch instead. Although it sounds like a good idea we can assure you the cons heavily outweigh the pros. Re roofers have tricks to lay new roof shingles over old so that the same step ups between courses are maintained but if any old shingles are cupped curled or otherwise misshapen those defects will telegraph through to the new layer.

Why installing new shingles over old shingles can be good let s start with the good. In fact the only pro to a shingle over is it s cheaper and cleaner. Yes you can install a metal roof over shingles. However you ll want to check with your local building department before you make any decisions.

All shingle manufacturers honor the warranty whether their products are used for a reroof or a new roof. If the job is done correctly with the new layer of shingles laid flat over the existing shingles the old roof cushions the new one and serves as a secondary barrier should wind or water ever break through the new shingles.