Metal roofing is slowly gaining popularity across the globe as a preferred roofing material due to its durability, sustainability, and aesthetic value. The material has a very high level of weather resistance, does not need much care, and is worth the cost from an energy point of view alone.
However, one of the most common questions homeowners have while installing a metal roof is whether to strip the current shingles. This decision can affect your new roof’s performance, price, and durability, so it should be carefully made.
In this blog, we will learn about this topic in a bid to assist with the decision-making process.
When You Should Remove Shingles
In some cases, it is wise to strip off the existing shingles before the metal can be put on. If damaged, curled, or decaying, they must be removed to make a proper underlay for the new roof. Putting a new metal roof over several layers of shingles can overload the structure in the long run due to the tremendous extra weight on the roof.
Roofing contractors can access the decking by stripping off shingles, a chance to check for rot, mold, or other signs of structural damage before proceeding.
Most local codes require that the existing layers of the roof be restricted to a certain number of layers. Such regulations can only be met through the removal of shingles, as has been mechanized in the diagram above. The process begins with the right surface, which gives the metal roofing optimum performance and longevity.
Overlaying Metal Roofs on Shingles
While stripping off the shingles is usually desirable, installing a metal roof over them is possible in some scenarios.
Pros of Overlaying Metal Roofs:
Cost Savings: One of the costs that make up the restoration cost to return home is the cost of labor and disposal of the shingles. Overlaying removes these costs, making the entire project cheaper than the layered style.
Reduced Installation Time: Since you don’t have to strip the old roofing material, installation can be done in a shorter time.
Added Insulation: Roof shingles can serve as another insulating material layer and a sound barrier under the metal roof.
Cons of Overlaying Metal Roofs:
Uneven Surface: If the shingles are uneven or damaged, they give an unstable base that can cause issues with the metal roof.
Heat Retention: Leaving old shingles can lead to heat buildup, which compromises the metal roof’s energy efficiency.
Moisture Trapping: If moisture is trapped between the SHPs and the metal roof, it will likely develop mold or rot the metal or SHPs.
Local Building Codes and Regulations
Factors can be considered before removing shingles or deciding on a metal roof, which is a major consideration and includes the local building codes and regulations.
Layer Restrictions: Most municipalities limit the number of additional roof layers that can be placed on a building. Going over these numbers is not allowed; otherwise, you get fined, or the crop might have to be removed.
Structural Integrity Requirements: Various codes set out rules for the total weight to be carried by the roof structure, which, again, significantly contributes to the need to install multiple layers.
Inspections and Permits: Municipal agencies may often demand one to seek permission or carry out an assessment, especially when the shingles are not stripped off before the metal roof is installed.
Hiring a professional roofing contractor guarantees that you will conform to these regulations and avoid some unanticipated problems in the future.
Conclusion
Whether to remove shingles before installing a metal roof depends on the condition of the existing roof, local building codes, and your long-term goals. If there is some damage on the existing shingles, if the roof deck requires inspection, or when specific laws prevent the use of multiple layers, the best option is to remove the shingles.
If the shingles can still be in good condition, and if time or money is a big issue, then it is okay to opt for the overlay metal roofs for consultation on which options are best.
Our team will perform a professional analysis of your roof’s condition and advise you on the most effective way to install a brand new, durable, efficient, and beautiful metal roof.
Call Solaroof NY now to book your FREE consultation and upgrade your house with a long-lasting steel roof today.