Installing shingles over existing shingles is a practice that has become increasingly common in the roofing industry. While this may seem like a cost-efficient and time-saving solution, it is not proper and can lead to several problems in the long run. In this post, we will explore the reasons why installing shingles over existing shingles is not proper and can cause more harm than good.
Firstly, installing shingles over existing shingles can compromise the structural integrity of the roof. The added weight of the new shingles can cause the roof to sag or collapse, particularly if the existing roof is already damaged or weakened. This can lead to costly repairs and even pose a safety hazard. Additionally, the old shingles may not provide a stable base for the new shingles, which can lead to premature wear and tear and reduce the lifespan of the new roof.
Secondly, installing shingles over existing shingles can make it difficult to detect underlying issues with the roof. For example, if there is water damage or rotting wood beneath the old shingles, it may not be visible until it has caused significant damage to the new shingles. This can lead to more extensive repairs and higher costs in the long run.
Lastly, installing shingles over existing shingles can reduce the overall quality and effectiveness of the new roof. The old shingles may not be properly aligned, which can cause the new shingles to buckle, warp or crack. This can compromise the roof’s ability to protect against weather and other environmental factors, such as wind, rain or snow.
In conclusion, while installing shingles over existing shingles may seem like an easy and cost-efficient solution, it is not proper and can lead to many problems. It can compromise the structural integrity of the roof, make it difficult to detect underlying issues and reduce the overall quality and effectiveness of the new roof. Therefore, it is important to always remove the existing shingles before installing the new ones to ensure the longevity and safety of the roof.
