Adding a New Asphalt Shingle Layer: Its Pros and Cons

Re-roof or replace: these are two options many homeowners have a hard time deciding, especially when their roofs are composed of asphalt shingles. While both are great choices for restoring the beauty of such roofing systems, a re-roof or the application of new asphalt shingle layers has its benefits and pitfalls.

Custom Installations, Inc., your local roofing, gutters and siding contractor, discusses them further:

The Good

Pursuing a roof replacement is a significant investment that requires a great deal of preparation and budget planning. Some homeowners, however, are not prepared for it, especially when the effects of a damaged asphalt shingle roof start to manifest. 

A re-roof should provide an immediate — albeit temporary — solution to the problem. Not only is it a cost-saving measure, but it’s also a timesaver. Placing a new layer of asphalt shingles can take less than a day to complete. Homeowners won’t experience the ongoing work associated with a complete roof replacement, where roofers tear off the existing roofing material. Roofing services contractors don’t even have to secure permits to get the job done.

The Bad

Re-roofing, however, has its drawbacks. For one, the project only calls for asphalt shingles and nothing more. Unless it is a roof replacement, it is never a good idea to combine any other roofing material like metal, wood shake, or clay tile with the asphalt shingle roof.

Also, a re-roof doesn’t guarantee the roofing system’s long-term performance. It can be convenient, but further roof repairs are to be expected at some point. The placement of new asphalt shingle layers also adds weight that may compromise the roof.

When you still have your roof intact and it continuously protects your home for years, an inspection is a good idea. You can turn to the pros of Custom Installations, Inc. for this. Our group’s expertise helps you better understand what needs to be done to extend the roof’s current life. Our company has experience in providing a variety of roof types, from asphalt shingles to metal roofing.

Give us a call at (847) 979-5522 to get started. You may also fill out our contact form to request a free estimate for the project. We serve residents of Highland Park, IL.