Nailing This Down

Posted on: 27 January 2022

When you buy a new home, you don't think there will come a time when you need to redo or replace the roof. But with time, the roof starts to deteriorate little by little due to old age, impact from elements, or other issues. Eventually, you find that the roof is worn out and something needs to be done. 

Re-roofing is one of the most popular options among homeowners because it's cheaper and faster to complete than a complete roof replacement. Read on as this article answers some of your questions about re-roofing.  

What Does Re-Roofing Involve?

Re-roofing is simply the process of putting a set new shingles on top of existing ones. Typically, this process can only be done once, so it's not an option for you if your roof has already been re-roofed in the past. It also works best when the entire roof needs to be re-roofed as opposed to only small parts.

Again, if you're considering re-roofing, your current should be in overall good shape. If your roof has significant water damage, missing or soggy shingles, or massive water leaks, re-roofing it will only cover these problems instead of addressing them. In such a case, consider a complete roof replacement. 

Will It Last Long?

Asphalt shingle roofs generally last 15 to 30 years. This is assuming the roof is regularly maintained and any minor problems fixed before turning into bigger ones.

When you re-roof an asphalt shingle roof with the same materials, the new shingles usually have a shorter lifespan than the original ones. However, they will still be able to protect your home from storms, damaging winds, and other elements for many years. 

Is Re-Roofing Lawful?

Generally, it depends on where you live. Local building codes usually dictate whether installing a new roof over an existing one is allowed or not. 

Luckily, you won't need to worry about building codes when working with professional roofers. They are up-to-date with all the building laws in your state and will advise you accordingly. If re-roofing isn't allowed in your area, you can hire them to replace the entire roof. 

Can You DIY a Re-Roofing Project?

While DIY is great for some home improvement projects, anything that involves roofing should be left to the pros. And the main reason here is that it's too risky. Re-roofing entails working on heights and the use of ladders. For someone who isn't an experienced roofer, you'll be risking serious falls and injuries by taking the DIY route.

Besides, re-roofing isn't as simple as it looks. Even installing a few shingles could result in mismatched or poorly aligned shingles, which affect your home's curb appeal. Considering this isn't a project you'll need to do every day, why not hire experts for a high-quality job?

For more information, contact a roofing contractor near you.