A new metal roof can be installed over an existing shingle roof in nearly all cases. One of the reasons metal roofs are so popular is that they don’t necessitate the total removal of the old roof, which is both time-consuming and costly.
Metal, despite being extremely durable, weighs less than a pound per square foot compared to asphalt shingles, which can weigh up to four pounds per square foot. There isn’t a considerable increase in the overall load that the house structure can sustain by installing a metal roof on top of an existing shingle roof.
A new metal roof installed over an existing roof provides more insulation to keep heat and cold from escaping, in addition to saving money by not having to remove the entire roof.
We should also mention that metal roofs are heat-blockers since they reflect heat away from their surfaces rather than absorbing it. Since we’re on the subject of insulation. Heat will not be trapped in your metal roof by the additional insulation provided by your asphalt shingle roof.
Can you put a metal roof over the shingles? Installing a Metal roofs over asphalt shingles has several considerations to be taken into account.
The majority of the time, metal roofing may be installed over shingles. You should always check with your local building and zoning officials to see if metal-over-shingle installations are allowed in your neighborhood.
Inspect your shingle roof for deteriorating rafters or sheets in the event of a leak. Before installing a new roof, these issues must be addressed.
There are structural difficulties that must be addressed before the new roof can be installed if the current roof has buckled trusses or sagged decking.
The granules of shingles might cause corrosion if they come into touch with metal, therefore it’s a good idea to put some sort of underlayment on top of them. This is something that your metal roofing contractor will be able to assist you with.
If any of the following conditions are met, the new roof installation covering over an existing roof covering may be approved under the 2018 International Building Code (International Code Council Series) 1st Edition: Two. Roofing systems that are designed to transmit the roof loads directly to the building’s structural system, such as standing-seam metal roof panel systems, shall not necessitate the removal of any of the existing roofing systems or roof coverings.
Can you put a metal roof over the shingles? Metal roofing may be installed over shingles, which is excellent! What are the benefits and drawbacks of using this method, as well as what to bear in mind when installing it? Find out more by reading on.
Putting a metal roof over shingles advantages
With a metal roof, you get even more benefits than you would with a shingle roof, which is why so many people like it. They are as follows:
Advantages of metal roofs
For homeowners, metal roofs have become a popular choice because of their reputation for long-term durability and attractiveness.
Shingles, on the other hand, are known for their short lifespans. Depending on the material, they can last between 40 and 70 years.
They’ll keep your home safe, dry, and pleasant in practically any weather. As snow melts, it will be able to slide off the roof more swiftly and easily. Additionally, they can withstand wind gusts of up to 140 miles per hour.
As a result, many of them can withstand lightning strikes and hail storms without suffering any harm.
All kinds of colors and finishes are available for purchase. Looks like genuine cedar shakes or stone, for example
They can cut cooling expenditures by 10% to 25% by reflecting solar radiant heat, which improves the energy efficiency of your home.
Can you put a metal roof over shingles, metal roofs have several advantages:
You may save money on labor costs by installing metal roofing over shingles, and you can also avoid dumping them in landfills by doing so.
Additionally, metal roofing on top of shingles will add a layer of insulation to your home.
Installing a metal roof over shingles problems.
Unfortunately, metal roofs, whether they are installed over shingles or not, have their share of drawbacks. When you put a new roof on top of your shingles, you’ll have to replace them in the future because the shingles themselves will wear down over time. Especially if there’s a metal roof on top, this will be challenging. You don’t know if the second layer is rotten or damaged. In addition, the roof may have hidden damage, water may be trapped, and the building may be out of code.
Problems with Metal Roofs Over Shingles: What You Need to Know
With a metal roof over an existing shingle roof, it would be less dirty and more convenient to install. Is it, in fact, that simple? Even if you’re able to save money, you’ll be hiding dangers that could end up costing more money in the long run. As shingles endure between 15 and 20 years, coating them does not guarantee that they will be more durable.
- Trapped Water Vapor and Moisture
In addition, water vapor and moisture can be trapped between the two layers of roofs, which is another reason to remove the shingles. As a result, additional mold and rot might develop if it isn’t properly cleaned out. Removing it will also provide you access to the attic’s trusses and roof, allowing you to check for problems.
This however can be avoided by installing ridge vents. The warm air in the attic can be expelled by ridge vents, which run along the roof’s crest. As a result, the attic is kept cool. Soffit ventilation, which is located beneath the eaves and brings in cooler air, is an excellent match for them. For the vents to be effective, they must be open and free of debris or insulation.
- Reduced Roof life expectancy as a result of unnoticed damage
When you choose a metal roof over shingles, you risk missing damage beneath the roof. You won’t notice if the wood is deteriorating, for example. Is it also certain that the roof sheathing was replaced? This is the wood layer that connects to the roof’s trusses and joists and keeps water out of the house. You want to believe it’s there, but if you have a water leak, you’ll see it’s rotting.
In addition, if your new metal roof is just laid on top of the roof decking, it will have a shorter lifespan. So, while not paying for shingle removal may save you money in the short term, you may wind up paying more in the long run.
- Not in Compliance With the Building Code
Building codes in the state where the house is located may limit what you can do with the roof. Building codes can be found here. Some states allow you to add a layer on top of an existing roof, while others prohibit it. If you break the rules, you could face steep fines and the need to completely replace your roof.
- When the warranty is avoided
Ensure that your metal roof’s guarantee is not voided if it is put on top of any form of asphalt shingles. If you don’t know what the warrant says, you may end up wasting money on something that won’t work.
- Errors by the Installer Affecting the Roof’s Performance
It’s not always the materials that are the problem, but rather the installer. Unfortunately, even if we order and receive a fantastic roof for our house, it will be a problem if the installers make mistakes. One of the problems that can arise is a lack of counter flashing on the roof near the chimney, which can lead to leaks.
Additionally, seams that break, fasteners that fail, and not following manufacturer instructions are just a few of the problems that might occur. Check the roof to be sure it was installed correctly before it is too late.
- Previously Existing Roof Issues
If you have difficulties with the old roof, simply roof installation on another roof top will not solve them. If there are structural, foundation, or rotten wood issues, adding the weight of a metal roof won’t make them go away. Before putting on the new roof, make sure there aren’t any of them. For example, you wouldn’t put a new roof on this house until the shingles were fixed first.
How do i install a metal roof over shingles in the best way possible way??
One of two methods is advised when installing metal roofing over shingles. The first step is to remove the old shingles and replace them with a new underlayment that has been approved. Metal roofing cannot be installed on the flattest surface possible using this method, notwithstanding its speed. The second option is to cover the shingles with 14 purlins. This is a more expensive option, but it’s worth it in the long run.
Conclusion
If you want a new roof installed, it is usually a good idea to consult an expert. In most cases, they’ll know what the installation needs are whether your home is strong enough to support a new roof and its accompanying concerns.
Contact Resilient Roofing New Orleans to ensure that this is done correctly. You’ll also want to keep these issues in mind when deciding whether or not to use a metal roof over a shingle one.
Remember that a new roof is a huge decision, and you’ll want to make sure you’re making the best one possible.
Want more info? Contact Resilient Roofing New Orleans About Roofing and Replacement Costs.
Check out one of our locations in New Orleans, Slidell, Kenner, Chalmette, Metairie, River Ridge, Harahan, Elmwood, Jefferson, Harvey, Gretna, Marrero, Westwego, Eden Isle, St Rose, or Meraux!
