Can I Get Away With Roof Overlay Instead Of Replacement?
How’s your roof doing lately? If it’s looking like it might need repair yet you’re trying to stay on a budget, perhaps you should think about a roof overlay instead of a total replacement. Here are the pros and cons.
Is your roof looking a little worse for wear? If it has seen better days, it may be time for a replacement. Replacing your roof is an expensive job though, and you don’t want to shell out for it if you don’t have to.
Could you get away with roof overlay repair instead of a full replacement?
Read this guide before you make a decision.
What Is A Roof Overlay?
Before you make any decision, you need to know what a roof overlay is and what it entails. Essentially, an overlay is just that: A new layer of shingles over your existing roof.
This gives you a better looking roof, adds an extra layer of protection, and generally will tidy up any aesthetic problems with your current roof.
The Benefits Of An Overlay
Why would you get a roof overlay rather than a full tear off and replacement?
1. Cost
Firstly, because it’s a much cheaper job. There’s much less labor involved, as the old roof doesn’t need to come off before the new one goes on. If money is tight but you need to do something about the roof, then it’s a good option for you.
2. Less Problems
It’s also a good option if there are no real issues with the old roof. If the roof is simply ageing, but there are no issues with the existing roof. If there’s no damage, then you can overlay the roof to get it looking as good as new again.
One of the best ways to overlay your roof is to overlay an existing shingle roof with a metal roof. If there’s no faults in the shingle roof, then the metal roof can sit on top of it.
Metal roofs offer many energy savings, so it’s a good option if you’re trying to save money.
The Drawbacks Of A Roof Overlay
There are also drawbacks to putting a roof overlay on your house, rather than replacing the whole roof.
1. Potential to Create More Issues
The biggest problem is that the overlay will mask issues that the existing roof has. If you have an overlay installed, you’ll need to be sure to ask your roofer to fix any existing problems first.
Otherwise, these problems will get worse over time. It’ll be harder to pinpoint them as in many cases, you won’t be able to see them.
2. No Water Leak Barrier
Another problem with roof overlays is that you can’t install an ice and water leak barrier on your roof. This is because these need to adhere to the decking of your roof. As this is the case, you may find that you get leaks in your roof, as water leaks under the new roof to the existing one. This will cause a range of problems, from mold to wood rot.
3. Extra Weight
When you overlay your roof, you’ll be adding tons of extra weight to your roof. If you hire a good roofer to handle the job for you, they’ll check whether your existing roof will be able to take the weight before they do the job.
If they don’t do that, and the roof can’t take the weight, then you’re letting yourself in for many problems down the line.
All in all, a roof overlay has to be done properly, and with the utmost care. If there are gaps in the roof, issues with flashing, weight concerns, or existing damage, you’ll be better off replacing the roof.
The Benefits Of A New Roof
The other option you have is to replace your roof entirely. There are a few benefits to this which you should consider.
1. No Replacement Needed in Near Future
Firstly, once the roof has been replaced, then you won’t have to do it again for a long time. How long you have until the next replacement will depend on the style of roof you’ve had installed.
For example, an asphalt shingle roof will last around 20 years, while a metal roof will last up to 50 years. You’ll have that brand new roof and you won’t have to worry about any major issues with it for a few years at least.
2. Opportunity to Fix Any Issues
If you have a new roof installed, then you’ll be able to correct any issues with the old roof. With your roof stripped back to the sheathing, your roofer will be able to solve any minor issues before they install the new roof.
With these issues taken care of it, your roof will be able to withstand almost anything that the weather throws at it.
3. Can Install Water Barrier
As you’re installing a new roof, you’ll be able to install that water and ice leak barrier on the decking. These are vital for any new roof.
Even if you’re unlucky and you do get a leak, you’ll be able to stop it with the barrier before it goes too far. That’s an important addition to make to your roof, as water can cause so much damage to your roof and the rest of your home if it goes unchecked.
The Drawbacks Of A New Roof
Of course there are a couple of drawbacks with new roofing that you need to be aware of.
1. Cost
Firstly, there’s the cost. It’s one of the most costly renovations you’ll do to your home, with it costing from $7,000 up to $50,000, depending on the style of roof. It’s an expensive job, and one that you can’t skimp on.
2. Time
As you’re having the whole roof replaced, it will take longer for the job to be done as well. That means more time living with a home under renovation, with all the mess and noise that entails.
Conclusion
So, should you get a roof overlay, or should you have the roof replaced entirely?
There are some instances where it’s worth getting an overlay.
- Is the existing roof in good condition?
- Can it take the added weight?
- Are you under a tight budget?
If so, then an overlay may be right for you.
A total replacement is often the best way to go for many homeowners. You’re guaranteed a roof that will last for at least 20 years, you’ll be able to protect it from leaks, and you know it’s not going to have any problems for a while after completion.
