If you’ve fixed previous roofing issues with a second layer of shingles, you’re probably wondering, “Can you repair a roof with two layers of shingles?” While shingle roofing remains the most popular roofing system because of its low investment requirement, having two layers can provide both benefits and disadvantages. Near Me Roofing, the leading provider of Texarkana’s roof repair services, can help you understand the role of double-layer shingled roofs and when they can repair them rather than replace them completely.
The Pros and Cons of Roofs with Two Shingle Layers
In general, adding a second layer of shingles to solve roofing issues yields short-term benefits at the expense of long-term advantages.
Benefits
If you have to prioritize short-term benefits because of budget issues or time constraints, adding a second layer can have the following advantages:
- Savings: Because it saves on labor and disposal fees, you’ll save significant money on repairs if you cover the problem with a second layer of shingles. However, it often only acts as a bandaid.
- Waste reduction: Your contractor won’t dispose of the original layer of shingle until the next time you need a roof replacement. The process reduces waste now, but you’ll have to dispose of those shingles eventually.
- Faster completion: Without the time required to remove the old shingles, repairs that use a second layer are the best solution if you need a fast turnaround time. However, the next time you require repairs, it’ll take longer.
Disadvantages
In the long term, the benefits of a second layer of shingles disappear and become more of a liability than an asset. The challenges include:
- Repair difficulty: If your roof develops a leak, a second layer of shingles can make the issue more difficult to locate and access.
- Increased weight: While often negligible, a second layer of shingles can put too much weight on your roof and damage the underlying structure.
- Ventilation problems: A second layer of shingles can hinder your attic’s ventilation leading to mold growth and damage.
- Reduced home value: Adding a second layer of shingles can reduce your appraisal by up to 15% if you’re selling your home or planning to do so soon.
- Lower lifespan: If your roof is relatively new, you’re actually lowering its life expectancy by adding a second layer. If your roof is already 15 years old, however, it’s already nearing the end of its expected lifespan.
- Warranty issues: Depending on your specific warranty, adding a second layer of shingles may void it and prevent you from receiving compensation for manufacturing issues.
Determining Whether You Can Repair a Double-Layered Roof
Can you repair a roof with two layers of shingles? The feasibility of that depends on several options.
Roofing Codes
Your city’s roofing and building codes can affect whether a roofing contractor can make repairs with a second layer of shingles. Some cities expressly forbid it, especially in certain types of residences like mobile homes. Your roofer will know if your jurisdiction allows a second layer of shingles.
Shingle Condition
Your shingle’s condition plays a significant factor in whether you can cover it with a second layer. According to commonly known roofing facts, asphalt shingles should last between 15 and 30 years. If they’re older, covering them may provide an adequate solution until you can save up for complete replacement.
However, if your shingles have a large amount of underlying damage, covering them with a second layer of shingles can cause more harm than it prevents. You’ll also need complete replacement if you have structural damage beneath your shingles.
Weight Capacity
Whether you can accomplish your roof repair with a second layer of shingle depends largely on the weight capacity of the underlying structure. Unless they’re certain your roof can handle it, your roofer won’t put a second layer of shingles on it.
Minimizing Damage to Your Roof
If you have a second layer of shingles on your roof, follow these professional recommendations to minimize damage.
Maintain the Shingles
The best method for reducing damage is preventing it from occurring. You should schedule a yearly inspection and maintenance for your roof so the experts can find and fix any problems before they become serious.
You can also use the following suggestions for maintaining your shingles:
- Inspect your shingles monthly or after severe weather.
- Stay vigilant for algae or moss growth; if you notice any, clean it off with a hose.
- Verify your attic has proper ventilation to avoid excessive humidity and moisture.
- If you have trees around your house, keep them trimmed so they don’t overhang your roof.
- When you inspect your roof and see debris, branches, dirt, leaves, or other buildup, clean it off immediately.
- Always have a professional perform repairs rather than doing it yourself, and always schedule them as soon as you know you need them.
Use Patching Solutions
If you need a short-term solution for damage to your roof with two layers of shingles, your roofer can offer a few temporary roof maintenance solutions to prevent the damage from growing worse. Roofing cement contains ground asphalt and is an excellent way to fix holes and leaks so they don’t grow worse. Recaulking around the base of the chimney or vents works well for leaks in those locations.
You can also use tarps or other water-proof barriers to provide a temporary solution if you have leaks. You won’t appreciate the effect this has on your curb appeal, but it can buy you time. A roofing company may suggest this solution in the following situations:
- You’re waiting for the insurance company to process your claim.
- You’re moving assets around to pay for the repair costs.
- The roofing company can’t fit you into their schedule.
- Your repairs take multiple days.
Contact Near Me Roofing for Repairs Today
Can you repair a roof with two layers of shingles? Now you know it’s not a good idea unless you have significant budget or time constraints. Whether you want more information on shingle roofing or need roof maintenance or repairs, Near Me Roofing does quality work for a competitive price.
To schedule an appointment, call today!