At Heart Roofing LLC, we understand that choosing the right roofing solution is crucial for protecting your home, especially in Brevard County, Florida. One common question we get from homeowners is whether to install metal roofing over existing shingles or to remove the old roof first. Both options have their pros and cons, and ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. In this blog, we'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each method to help you make an informed decision. Previous blogs have shown what big fans we are of metal roofs:
Pros of Installing Metal Over Shingles
Upfront Savings
Cost-Effective: Installing metal roofing over shingles can be more affordable upfront since it eliminates the cost of tearing off the old roof.
Less Labor: Without the need to remove the existing shingles, the labor costs are reduced, which translates to savings for you.
Time-Saving
Quicker Installation: Since there's no need to remove the old shingles, the installation process is faster, reducing the overall project timeline.
Less Waste
Environmentally Friendly: By not removing the old roof, you minimize the amount of waste that goes to the landfill, making this a more environmentally friendly option.
Cons of Installing Metal Over Shingles
Potential Issues with Rotting Wood
Undetected Damage: Installing metal over shingles means you won't have the opportunity to inspect and replace any rotten wood underneath, which could lead to problems down the line.
Weight Concerns
Additional Weight: Adding a metal roof over shingles increases the overall weight on your home’s structure, which could be an issue if the existing roof is already in poor condition.
Pros of Removing the Old Roof
Comprehensive Inspection and Repair
Address Underlying Issues: Removing the old shingles allows for a thorough inspection of the roof deck, making it possible to replace any rotten or damaged wood, ensuring a solid foundation for the new metal roof.
Higher Insurance Discounts
Wind Mitigation Report: By removing the old roof, you can add a secondary water barrier, which can lead to higher discounts on your wind mitigation report, potentially saving you more money on insurance premiums in the long run. For more details on wind mitigation and insurance savings, visit Florida's Office of Insurance Regulation.
Clean Installation
Optimal Installation Surface: A clean roof deck provides the best surface for installing new metal roofing, ensuring better performance and longevity.
Cons of Removing the Old Roof
Higher Upfront Costs
Increased Labor and Disposal Fees: The process of removing the old roof requires more labor and incurs additional disposal fees, increasing the initial cost of the project.
Longer Installation Time
Extended Project Timeline: The removal of the old roof adds time to the overall project, which could be a consideration if you're looking for a quicker solution.
Should you install a metal roof over shingles?
Both options, installing metal over shingles and removing the old roof, are compliant with Florida Building Code and offer the durability needed to withstand hurricanes. Your decision will ultimately depend on your priorities and budget. If you’re looking for upfront savings and a quicker installation, laying metal over shingles might be the best choice for you. However, if you want to ensure the integrity of your roof’s foundation and potentially save on insurance premiums, removing the old roof could be the way to go.
Heart Roofing LLC can help you navigate these options and provide the best solution for your home. Contact us at 321-499-3012 today for a free estimate and let us help you protect your home with a quality roofing solution.
Installing a metal roof over our shingles was a cost-effective solution, and Roof Repair Prince George specialists made the process seamless. We avoided the extra cost and hassle of removing the old shingles. Very satisfied with the result."