When roofs need replacing, you might consider opting to add a second layer of new asphalt shingles on top of the existing roof rather than pay for a total replacement. Yes, this tactic can help save money at the moment—but having two layers of shingles may pose more problems and become more costly in the long term.
Keep reading to learn why adding a second layer of shingles to your roof can be a problem.
Do you need to asphalt shingle roof repair or replacement in Flagstaff, Parks, or Williams, AZ? Our roofing experts at Polaris Roofing Systems have provided Flagstaff and surrounding areas with reliable roofing services for more than 25 years. Call us today for a free estimate at (928) 440-9168.
Seven Reasons NOT to Go With Multiple Layers of Shingles
It may seem intuitive that adding a second layer of shingles to your roof would improve its effectiveness, but twice the number of layers does not equate to twice the amount of protection for your home.
Let’s look at seven reasons why a second shingle layer is not a good idea.
1. The Roof Won’t Last as Long
A roof with two layers of shingles won’t last twice as long. In fact, the added layer may cause even more damage. When a roof has more than one shingle layer, it traps extra heat, which causes premature wear to the shingles.
The roof’s life span may become further compromised by the poor installation of the second layer. When roofers install shingles atop an existing roof, the new layer often includes gaps and cannot be mounted properly.
2. Leak Detection Is More Difficult
When water gets into a home, it’s crucial to find the leak as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. Finding the exact place where water is getting in proves much more difficult when the roof has two layers of shingles.
Finding leaks can be tricky with an extra layer of shingles because water might be penetrating each layer at different locations. The leak may originate on the top layer on one side of your roof and then penetrate the bottom layer somewhere else.
3. Issues Get Masked, Not Fixed
When roofers replace a roof, they inspect the materials under the shingles to repair or replace damaged flashing, underlayment, and decking. The inspection of these essential parts of the roof gets skipped, however, when roofers install a second layer of shingles atop the current roof, covering up potential problems rather than addressing them.
Rotten roof decking, rusted flashing, and torn underlayment all pose a threat to the home’s interior structure. However, these types of issues remain undetected if you decide against total roof replacement.
4. More Layers Means More Weight
An extra layer of shingles adds a significant amount of weight, compromising the roof’s structural integrity—especially if other issues exist below the original layer. Asphalt shingles add between 350 and 450 pounds to a roof for every 100 square feet. That means you could be adding thousands of pounds of extra weight to your roof by opting for two layers of shingles.
5. Long-Term Costs Increase
Although opting for a second layer of shingles rather than a roof replacement may save homeowners money in the short term, long-term costs will likely increase. The tear-off process will take twice as long next time the roof needs replacing. Pair these costs with those of locating and fixing potential issues, and going with two layers of shingles simply isn’t worth it.
6. The Warranty May Become Void
If the roof comes with a manufacturer warranty, installing a new layer of shingles on top of an existing roof will void it. Installing shingles atop shingles does not match the manufacturer-intended installation. Insurance companies may also take advantage of this and refuse to pay for roof repairs.
7. The Home’s Value Decreases
Selling a home with two layers of roof shingles may prove difficult. Inspection reports will include the added layer of shingles.
Depending on where you live, you may need to replace the roof before you sell in order to pass inspection. If not, buyers may insist that you lower your price to account for the cost of a new roof.
Call Polaris Roofing Systems For a Free Estimate to Replace Your Roof Shingles
If you’re at the end of your roof’s life span and need a roof replacement, avoid going with two layers of shingles. This option may seem more manageable and cost-efficient, but in the long run, it’s not. Opt for a totally new roof for long-term money savings and better protection for your home.
In Northern Arizona, be sure to contact our roofing professionals at Polaris Roofing Systems today for a free consultation and estimate. You can reach us by filling out our online contact form or calling us at (928) 440-9168 in Flagstaff, Parks, or Williams, AZ.
