If you’re in the market for a new roof, you have complete control over your roof replacement — including the methods the roofers use to install the new roof.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that there are two main roof replacement methods: roof tear-off and overlay. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages, and understanding them better can help you make a more informed decision.
Read on to learn the difference between a roof tear-off and a roof overlay. Then contact our Nelson Contracting team today at 402-464-2418 to request a free roof replacement estimate.
Roof Tear-Off vs. Roof Overlay: What’s The Difference?
Tear-off and overlay are two methods roofing companies can use to replace a roof. In a roof tear-off, the roofing company completely removes the existing roof, then installs the new roof over this blank slate. In an overlay, the roofing company keeps the existing roof in place, then installs the new shingles on top.
During a roof tear-off, the roofing contractors use a tear-off fork to lift the shingles from the roof. They then examine the roof decking for damage or structural issues before installing the new roof shingles on the clean roof decking.
Meanwhile, in a roof overlay, the roofing company lays new shingles on top of the existing ones. You can only have a maximum of two layers of shingles on your roof, so if you’ve had a roof overlay in the past, it’s time to replace the roof entirely.
Pros and Cons of Roof Tear-Off
Tearing off the existing shingles before adding new ones is beneficial for several reasons:
- Ability to examine the roof deck: Before the roofers lay the new shingles, they can inspect the roof decking and repair any damage, creating a stronger foundation for your roof.
- Brand-new materials: Roof tear-offs allow you to outfit your roof with all-new materials, including decking, underlayment, and shingles, creating a durable and longer-lasting roofing structure.
- Increased home value: Replacing your roof completely using the tear-off method can raise the value of your home and give future owners peace of mind that your roof is structurally sound.
Meanwhile, the process has a few primary disadvantages:
- Higher cost: Roof tear-offs cost more than roof overlays, as they require longer processes and more materials.
- Longer replacement time: Roof tear-offs also take longer to complete than overlays.
Pros and Cons of Roof Overlay
Roof overlays also have a few advantages over tear-offs:
- Lower cost: Roof overlays are significantly cheaper than tear-offs, as they require less labor and fewer materials.
- Faster completion: Roofing companies can complete overlays much faster than tear-offs.
However, in most other senses, roof overlays are inferior to roof tear-offs. This replacement method can:
- Trap moisture between the roof shingles, causing mold and water damage
- Add weight and structural stress to your home
- Not last as long as a roof tear-off
- Risk uneven application
Which Replacement Is Right For You?
In most cases, a roof tear-off makes more sense than a roof overlay. Even though roof overlays are cheaper upfront, they are prone to problems that can require repairs and maintenance down the line. In the end, you’ll pay about the same for an overlay or tear-off.
With that said, there are a few cases in which an overlay may make more sense. For example, if your existing roof is in excellent condition, but you want to change the appearance or material, an overlay may be a suitable option. In contrast, if you need a new roof but can’t afford an entire replacement or are short on time, an overlay could act as a temporary solution.
However, if you have the money for a complete roof tear-off, we recommend choosing this method instead. Your new roof will last longer, and you won’t have to worry about structural damage beneath the shingles that the roofers couldn’t see during the replacement.
Contact Nelson Contracting Today
At Nelson Contracting, we have spent years helping homeowners make the best decisions about roof maintenance, repairs, and replacements. We’d be happy to examine your existing roof and help you understand whether a roof tear-off or overlay is right for you.
Contact us today at 402-464-2418 to schedule a free roof replacement estimate in Lincoln or Omaha, NE.
