If you’re having issues with your roof, you generally have two choices: a roof replacement or an overlay. An overlay involves installing a new roof over the old one, while a roof tear-off involves removing previous roof layers and starting fresh. While both options work in certain situations, here are reasons you might want to consider a roof tear-off.

When Do You Need a Complete Roof Replacement?

1. Inspect the Roof Deck

Completely replacing your roof allows you to get a look at the roof deck, which is the backbone of the surface. Tearing out the old roof is the only way to check for mold, dry rot, or water damage. If your roofing system is decades old, you’re at risk for a faulty roof deck. If you opt for an overlay, you might experience issues later on that require extra costs.

2. Keep Your Warranty

Your roofing warranty might only cover a complete roof tear-off. This is because the company doesn’t want to be responsible for issues caused by installing new shingles over the old ones. If they do cover an overlay and you experience damage due to a problem with the roof deck, your insurance may depreciate, which means they won’t reimburse you fully.

3. Decrease the Weight Load

An overlay adds a lot of weight to the top of your home since it’s basically two roofs. However, houses aren’t designed for this much weight, and your house could buckle under the additional load, especially if it’s older. The weight of snow and ice in the winter can make this problem worse.

4. Sell Your Home More Easily

Even if you’re not considering selling your home anytime soon, consider the resale value of an overlay versus a roof replacement. Telling buyers that you have a new roof is much more appealing than telling them about an overlay. Overlays are more likely to spring leaks, lower the selling price, and turn away potential buyers.

 

If you’re considering a roof replacement or an overlay, contact the talented specialists at MAP Construction in Oakwood Village, OH. They have more than 50 years of combined experience, and they have a passion for quality craftsmanship. These local professionals offer roof tear-offs and overlays, as well as plumbing and HVAC services. Visit their website to learn more, or call (216) 220-6033 to schedule a free estimate.