Many Colorado homeowners wonder if they can save money by installing new shingles over their existing roof. Although building codes sometimes allow this practice, reroofing over existing shingles can lead to serious problems that might damage your home and cost more money in the long run.
Red Diamond Roofing strongly advises against reroofing over existing shingles. This shortcut often leads to structural issues, warranty problems, and hidden damage that can be expensive to fix. A full roof replacement is the safer and smarter choice.
How Does Reroofing Over Asphalt Shingles Work?
Reroofing involves installing new shingles directly over the existing ones without removing the original layer. Contractors drive nails through both layers into the roof deck, creating a double-thick surface that looks new from the ground.
The process skips the tear-off phase, so workers don’t remove old shingles, underlayment, or flashing. While this method saves time and labor costs upfront, it hides potential problems underneath that could cause serious issues later.
Weather conditions in Colorado make this approach especially risky. Hail and wind storms frequently damage roofs, and the extra layer makes it more difficult to spot problems before they develop into serious structural or roofing issues.
Should You Reroof Over Existing Shingles?
Roofing experts recommend against reroofing over existing shingles because it often causes more issues than it solves. Hidden damage, structural concerns, and warranty problems make a full replacement the better choice for Colorado homeowners.
1. Hidden Damage Remains Unseen
Reroofing over old shingles conceals any underlying damage, such as rot, mold, or leaks in the decking. These problems can get worse over time, weakening the roof’s structural integrity and leading to more costly repairs later.
2. Added Weight On The Roof Structure
Asphalt shingles are heavy. Installing a second layer adds more weight to your home’s framing. This extra pressure can strain trusses, rafters, and other components, particularly in older houses or regions with heavy snowfall, which might cause structural failure.
3. Shorter Roof Lifespan
Covering an existing layer hinders proper heat ventilation on the roof and can cause the new shingles to deteriorate more quickly. The bottom layer traps heat and moisture, leading to increased damage to both layers compared to a full replacement.
4. Voided Manufacturer Warranty
Many shingle manufacturers void their product warranty if the shingles are installed over an existing roof. This approach leaves the homeowner without coverage in case of a product defect or premature failure.
5. Poor Aesthetic Appearance
A reroof often results in a lumpy or uneven appearance. The new shingles conform to the shape of the old ones, including any curling or damage, which can reduce curb appeal and lower resale value.
6. Increased Risk Of Ice Dams & Leaks
Without the ability to install new underlayment, flashing, or ice-and-water shield barriers, a re-roofed surface becomes more susceptible to ice damming, water intrusion, and poor sealing, especially around chimneys, vents, and valleys.
Why You Shouldn’t Reroof Over Shingles
Colorado’s extreme weather makes proper roof installation crucial. Hailstorms and strong winds require secure, properly installed roofing systems. Shortcuts like reroofing over old shingles increase the risk of weather damage and costly repairs.
Double-layer roofs produce uneven surfaces that don’t seal well around flashing and vents. This issue leads to leaks that can damage your home’s structure and interior. The increased thickness also complicates the installation of proper ventilation systems.
What Should You Do?
Can you reroof over existing shingles? By now, you likely understand why Red Diamond Roofing and other professional roofers do not reroof over existing shingles.
A complete roof replacement is the best choice for aging or damaged shingles. This process removes old materials, allows for a thorough inspection of the roof deck, and provides a fresh start with new underlayment and flashing systems.
Storm-damaged roofs need urgent repairs to stop more damage to your home. Temporary fixes can help in the short term, but replacing the roof with quality materials offers long-lasting protection. Insurance often covers storm damage, making replacements more affordable than you might imagine.
Working with an experienced roofing contractor guarantees proper installation and warranty protection. A qualified roofer knows Colorado’s building codes and weather conditions and will use quality materials with proven techniques for durable results.
Learn More About The Reroofing & Roof Replacement
Red Diamond Roofing specializes in emergency roof replacements caused by storm damage. With Colorado’s frequent hail and wind storms, most roofs require replacement before reaching their expected lifespan. Skilled installation guarantees proper fit and optimal performance.
Don’t compromise your home’s safety by taking shortcuts like reroofing over old shingles. Contact Red Diamond Roofing for a professional assessment of your roof’s condition. We’ll help you explore your options and work with your insurance company to ensure proper replacement.
Our knowledgeable and experienced team is prepared to handle your emergency roof replacement needs. From the inspection to the final cleanup, we’ll guide you through the entire process with professionalism and care. Your home deserves the best protection available.
