Storm Damage? We Can Help! Learn More About Our Emergency Storm Services & Call Now For Relief.

South MS: (601) 520-3183

North MS: (662) 636-7663

North AL: (256) 692-5527

Meridian, MS: (601) 841-3218

Do You Need To File An Insurance Claim

Learn How Our Insurance Experts Can Help

Storm Damage? We Can Help! Learn More About Our Emergency Storm Services & Call Now For Relief.

Roof Overlay vs. Tear-Off: Which is Right for You?

Posted on June 25, 2024

roof overlay vs tear off

Are you facing the daunting task of replacing your roof? Whether it’s reached the end of its lifespan, experienced weather damage, or just gone through wear and tear, your roof can only last so long before it needs to be replaced. 

There are typically two options that you can consider going forward for your roof: a roof overlay or a roof tear-off. But with so many differing opinions surrounding both choices, it can be hard to decide which one is right for your home and needs. This is a significant decision, one that impacts not only the aesthetics and longevity of your roof, but also your wallet. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details of a roof overlay vs. tear-off, so you can make an informed choice that best suits your needs.

What Is A Roof Tear-Off? 

Roof Tear-Off
Roof Tear-Off

A roof tear-off is the conventional method of replacing a roof that involves tearing off the old shingles or roofing materials before installing a new one. Homeowners commonly choose this route because it provides opportunities to thoroughly inspect the roof deck and other parts of the structure, allowing you to repair any existing forms of damage. 

Once the old materials are torn off, fresh underlayment and shingles are installed, giving your roof a new look and lifespan. However, some homeowners avoid roof tear-offs because of how labor-intensive and expensive they are when compared to roof overlays. 

What Is A Roof Overlay?

Roof Overlay
Roof Overlay

A roof overlay, on the other hand, is the most convenient and least expensive roofing method suitable for homeowners who are tight on budget and looking for quick fixes. A roof overlay or roof layover, as the name suggests, is the practice of installing new shingles or roofing material over old ones. This process saves time, effort, and money that is involved in the tear-off of old shingles and their overall disposal. Roof overlays can renovate the appearance of your roof and home, but you should be wary of the cons. 

Pros And Cons Of A Roof Tear-Off

Pros 

1. Comprehensive Inspection and Repair

One of the most significant advantages of a roof tear off is the opportunity for a detailed inspection of your roof deck. Removing the old shingles and underlayment down to the roof deck makes any damage such as rot, mold, or structural issues, visible. This allows for necessary repairs before the new roof is installed. 

2. Increased Longevity 

Because a tear-off provides a clean slate, the new shingles can perform optimally. This process eliminates the risk of underlying issues compromising the new roof, resulting in better longevity and performance. 

3. Improved Aesthetics

Another advantage of roof tear-off is the enhanced appearance and overall function that is not achievable through a roof overlay. A roof tear-off avoids the problem of uneven surfaces caused by layering new shingles over old ones. This results in a smoother, more polished look that can enhance your home’s curb appeal. 

Cons 

1. Higher Installation Cost

The most significant downside of a roof tear-off is the cost. The process is more labor-intensive and adds additional expenses to your replacement cost due to removing and disposing of old roofing materials. If budget is a major concern, this might be a critical factor in your decision-making process.

2. Longer Installation Time 

Since a tear-off involves more steps, such as removing the old roofing material, inspecting and repairing the deck, and then installing the new roof, the project takes longer to complete. This can be inconvenient for many homeowners because of the complexities involved. 

Pros And Cons Of A Roof Overlay

Pros

1. Cost Effective And Immediate Solution 

One of the reasons people choose to go with a roof overlay is that it saves money. Since there’s no need to remove the existing shingles, labor, and disposal costs are significantly reduced. The cost to shingle over an existing roof is generally much lower compared to the added cost of a tear-off. Additionally, this process involves simply adding a new layer of shingles so it can be completed in a shorter time frame. 

2. Added Insulation 

Because of the nature of the job, the added layers increase the insulation properties of your roof, thus increasing your home’s energy efficiency. This can potentially reduce your heating and cooling costs in summer and winter, respectively. 

Cons

1. Chances of Hidden/Missed Damage 

Installing new shingles over old ones does not come risk-free, it can create some serious issues that may lead to extra costs in the future. One of the primary drawbacks of a roof overlay is the risk of covering up underlying issues. It’s hard to inspect the roof deck and surrounding structure for damage, rot, or mold without removing the initial layers. This could lead to problems down the line, as any hidden damage will remain untreated and only worsen.

2. Added Weight

Adding an extra layer of shingles on top of the existing ones will increase the overall weight of the roofing system on the home’s structure. While modern roof structures and homes are capable of supporting added weight, older homes, or those with structural issues may not be suitable candidates.

3. Shorter Lifespan

Roofs with overlays tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to those that are completely torn off and replaced. The new shingles may not sit well on top of the old ones, and the underlying issues could eventually affect the new layer. 

Which One Is Right For You?

When you’re trying to decide which roof replacement choice is right for you and your unique needs, you’ll want to factor in the following: 

1. Condition of Your Existing Roof

As mentioned before, installing a new layer of shingles can increase the weight of your roof, which can negatively impact the roof’s structure. Therefore, it is important to assess the condition of your existing roof. If the shingles are curled, cracked, and blistered, then installing a new layer of shingles on top will only increase the chance of further damage occurring. 

Additionally, if you notice any damage to the roof deck, such as sagging, rotting, and other forms of water damage, then it is better to choose a roof tear-off rather than masking the underlying issues. 

2. Your Budget And Financial Goals

Generally, it will be tempting for homeowners with a tight budget to choose a roof overlay because of the significant savings involved, but it is important to consider long-term goals too. While a roof overlay can increase the life of your roof for a few years, you may need to replace your roof shortly after anyway, which would seriously affect your financial goals. 

A roof replacement is a long-term investment that can last for decades when it’s installed on a roof deck in good condition, but a roof replacement done by an overlay may require you to spend money on frequent repairs or, in the end, a completely new roof. 

3. Local Building Codes and Regulations

Some areas have building codes that limit the number of layers of roofing material allowed. Before deciding on a roof overlay, check your local regulations. If your home already has multiple layers of shingles, a tear-off might be your only option.

Talk To Our Expert Roofers In Hattiesburg For Your Roofing Needs

Now that you know the pros and cons of each roof replacement method, it should be easier to make the right choice for your home and needs. If you’re still struggling to make a decision, our team of contractors at B&A Roofing can help you. 
After a thorough inspection of your roof, we can advise the best course of action that will leave you with a roof that lasts years to come. Contact us today at (601) 520-3183 and talk to one of our experts. The roofers at our company are proficient at handling any roofing project, be it a new roof installation, roof replacement, or roof repair.

Don’t see your location? Call us! We Likelt serve your area too