Tear off vs. Overlay: Conflict in Roofing

The most commonly asked question about roofing is whether to repair the roof or replace it. The second most commonly asked question about roofing is whether to tear the roof off or lay a new layer over it. The third most commonly asked question about roofing is "What is up with tearing off vs. overlaying?"

Shingles suffer from wear and tear as they are constantly exposed to the weather: sun, rain, and snow. When shingles have reached the peak of their service life, fresh ones take the place of the old breed. However, when fresh shingles start falling off shortly after you nail them, the problem may be your old roofing structure. Therefore, the burning question remains: "Should you tear off the roof or place a fresh layer on top?"

Tear off: As simple as it gets, tearing off the roof means replacing the entire roofing structure for structural integrity. When the roof gets creaky or leaky under gale-force winds or torrential rains, a major overhaul may be in order. Of course, tearing off your old roof is not exactly friendly to your budget; but solutions to severe roofing problems see it as the ideal way.

A major overhaul of the existing roofing system should be considered as a last resort -- when the roof is beyond repair. If the trusses and rafters start to sag, as well as spongy areas on the roof start to appear, tearing the roof off may be a better option. A fresh roof over your house will ensure the integrity of the home and prevent additional costs in frequent repairs.

Overlay: An overlay on the existing roofing system is the more affordable option, as it uses less materials and equipment. Many people consider overlaying; but, in reality, people rarely overlay their roofs. This is because most building codes do not usually allow for more than one roofing layer. Dallas roofing companies say that the local building code does not say anything about overlay roofing.

Overlay was the practice a few decades ago. However, inspectors and insurance companies have grown more reluctant against overlay roofing, possibly because of issues on the structural integrity of the home. The weight of multiple roofing layers can put stress on the trusses, increasing the risk of collapse. Still, check with the Dallas local building department or roofing companies in Dallas TX on whether or not overlay roofing is possible.

If you want to know more about tear off and overlay roofing, RoofHelp.com has an interesting guide. The article lists the right situations when to consider a major overhaul or an overlay job. Don't forget to ask a Plano roofing company if they take overlaying as an option.

If you have questions, please visit us at www.crosbyroofingusa.com for complete details and answers.

Keywords: dallas roofing companies, plano roofing company, roofing companies in dallas tx

This article has been viewed 8 time(s).

It is a violation of our terms and conditions for writers to submit material which they did not write and claim it as their own. If this article infringes on your copyrights, you MUST either call us at 706-866-2295 or send proof of infringement along with the offending article's title, URL, and writer name to

IdeaMarketers.com
Attn: Marnie Pehrson - Copyright Concern
514 Old Hickory Ln
Ringgold GA 30736 USA
If you email us or use our problem submission form, we CANNOT guarantee we'll receive your notice!

louisville lotto numbers susan powell megamillions winners university of louisville louisville ky final four