Should I Install a Metal Roof over a Shingle Roof?
Roofing Contractors Baton Rouge
While the appeal of a durable and stunning metal roof may seem irresistible, if you’re considering metal roof installation over a traditional shingled roof, it may not be a good idea. One of the primary concerns of doing this is the added weight and stress on the underlying structure of your existing roof. This can lead to structural damage and compromise the safety of the home over time. Additionally, the installation process can be more complicated and may require special equipment and expertise.
Planning the Process
Another factor to consider is the risk of moisture buildup between the layers of roofing materials. This can result in mold and mildew growth, as well as damage to the roof decking and insulation.
At LA Roof Crafters, we have been helping homeowners make informed decisions about their roofing needs for more than ten years. We strongly advise against adding a metal roof to your shingle roof and encourage homeowners to explore other options that will provide long-term durability and safety to their homes.
Top 5 Problems with Installing a Metal Roof Over an Old Shingle Roof
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1.You Can’t Replace the Damaged Roof Decking
The first issue you may encounter is the inability to inspect the roof decking. The deck is essentially a wooden board to provide a solid foundation for your roof. During a roof replacement, tearing down the existing roof to the decking allows contractors to inspect it for any sign of rotting or broken board. However, when a metal roof is installed over an existing shingle roof, this inspection process cannot take place, and the integrity of the decking may be compromised. Additionally, a partial or complete replacement of the decking may still be necessary. This could result in additional expenses and repairs.
2. The Extra Weight of Metal Roofing Components
The extra weight of the metal roof will place additional stress on the decking. That’s why your existing roof must be resilient enough to adequately support this increased load. Furthermore, the underlying decking boards may have pre-existing damage or rot that is not visible during the installation process. The gradual deterioration of these boards over time can exacerbate the problem, leading to structural damage to the roof and the home.
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3.You Can’t Replace the Important Roofing Components
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Some of the key components, such as decking, flashing, and gutters of your roof may reach the end of their lifespan and must be replaced to avoid further damage. By bypassing the tear-off process during a roof replacement, you will not get the opportunity to replace these essential parts.
While it may seem cost-effective in the short term, ultimately, it will lead to future repairs that will outweigh any initial savings. Moreover, a proper roof replacement involves using underlayment specifically designed for metal roofs. This provides better warranties and ensures the effectiveness and durability of the roof. Lastly, to ensure the safety of your roof, loves ones, and home, make sure to follow the manufacturer's installation guidelines and use recommended roofing accessories.
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4. You May Not Be Able to Track and Fix Future Leaks
Identifying and repairing future leaks in a metal roof installed over shingles can be a challenging task, even for professionals. When water damage happens due to a roof leak, it is often not directly above the source of the leak. This can make tracking its origin extremely difficult. This task is further complicated when a metal roof is installed over shingles, as water can penetrate the metal panels and flow down the old asphalt roof, leading to leaks inside the home. Repairing such leaks can be a complex process as they may originate from different parts of the two roofs. In such cases, you should hire skilled experienced professionals at reputable roofing companies like LA Roof Crafters to diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible.
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5. You Won’t Get Rid of Your Existing Roofing Issues Permanently
Adding a new metal roof to your existing shingle roof may not entirely solve pre-existing issues. Even with a new metal roof in place, any unresolved issues from your previous asphalt roof may resurface. This can lead to additional expenses and potential damage. Moreover, any moisture that penetrates the metal roof can lead to the deterioration of the underlying shingles over time. For this reason, make sure that any problems with your previous roof are adequately resolved before installing a brandnew roof to prevent future complications. In most cases, if your roof has reached the end of its lifespan, a total roof replacement is a long-lasting and more cost-effective option in the long run.
Call Louisiana Roof Crafters at 225-206-5841 for more information. We service areas in Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Hammond, Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, and New Orleans, LA. Louisiana Roof Crafters LLC
Adress- 2770 West Church Street Hammond LA