Should You Remove Shingles Before Installing A Metal Roof

+ Year Life Expectancy

Metal roofs are more expensive than other roofing materials are because they are inherently more durable with a life expectancy of 50 years. While other roofing materials like asphalt shingles can diminish in value and quality as they age, are exposed to wind and rain, and undergo snow and ice exposure, metal roofs provide long-lasting benefits as they are more resistant to weather elements.

Advantage Of Installing Metal Roofing

Keep in mind that if the existing shingles are too damaged, then installing underlayment cannot fix the problem permanently. In this case, you should not install metal roofing over the shingles, otherwise, it may create problems in near future.

Installing underlayment is not highly required while installing metal roofing over the shingles. But if you want to install underlayment, it protects the shingles and prevents further roof damage.

Remember, installing a metal roof, underlayment or any type of roofing work is not easy work to do. If you want to do this work on your own, then you may damage the roof due to your lack of experience and may put yourself at risk. Therefore, you have to contact any roofing companyto get the job done. You can consult with the specialists of Elliott Roofing as they provide various services including commercial, residential and thermal drone inspections in Tulsa,OK.

Should You Install A Metal Roof Over Shingles

A common trend today is to get metal roofing installed on your home. Even home owners with asphalt shingle roofs consider getting metal installed simply because they like the look and style of metal roofing. There are advantages and disadvantages to using metal roofing when compared with asphalt shingles which Ill go over later in this article. But, most home owners want to know if they can add a metal roof over shingles that are already installed on their homes. Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer and each case or home is different. Ill go over some of the things that can affect the installation of a metal roof over shingles below.

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Does The Building Code Allow For A Metal Roof To Be Placed Over Shingles

The choice is easy when there isnt a decision to be made. Local building code can make your decision simple if it specifies that the existing shingles have to be removed first.

Its common to find building codes that will allow for two layers of roofing on a structure, but that is not always the case. Check your local building codes to see what is allowed in your area. Not complying with building codes can result in expensive fines.

How To Install Metal Roofing Over Shingles Right

For many years, shingle roofs have been the best option for residential homes. Nevertheless, in our time, metal roofs are gaining more and more popularity. This is due to their reliability, quality, and durability.

When you decide to install a new metal roof, you can do it in two ways. The first way is to dismantle the old roof, and the second is to install a metal roof over shingles.

The installation of a metal roof over shingles can be done in three ways. The installation can be influenced by many factors, the condition of the existing roof, the weather conditions in the region, and additional elements. Before installation, it is necessary to inspect the roof deck to determine if it is possible to install a metal roof over shingles.

Can you put a metal roof over shingles or not will become clear after inspecting the existing roof. Based on the information received, a professional metal roof installation team will give you a detailed answer on how to install metal roof over shingles in your particular case.

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Installing A Metal Roof: Should Old Shingles Be Removed

If your residential roofing system is nearing the end of its service life, its time to think about replacing it. While asphalt shingles remain the top choice in the residential sector, metal is quickly gaining popularity. Read on as Mascon Inc. explains how the process of installing a metal roof works.

Should You Remove Shingles Before Installing Metal Roofs

September 8, 2020 by Raul Porto

Changing from an asphalt shingle roof to a metal roof is a viable option for most homeowners, but a lot of them are unfamiliar with how switching to a metal roof will actually be carried out. One of the most crucial decisions is choosing whether to remove the existing shingles before the metal panels are laid out. Is it necessary for roof replacement?

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Installation Of Metal Roofing Over Shingles

If you choose to install metal roofing over shingles, there are certain things you must keep in mind. Were going to break them down, so you know what to look out for. But first, here are a few precautions about the underlying material:

• Address any existing roof leaks and replace rotten rafters or sheeting.
• Look out for any signs of the previous roof weighing too much. Signs may include buckling tresses or sagging decking.

Also, make sure you acknowledge:

Talk With One Of Our Roof Specialists To Be Sure

The only way to know for sure if youll be able to install a metal roof over shingles already installed is to have the roof inspected by a licensed roofing contractor. Here at Livingston Roof Pros we can add a new metal roof to your home over the old shingles. But well first consult with you to let you know of the problems that you might face. We can also give you a free roof estimate in Livingston Michigan. Be sure to contact us today at 517-940-8770.

• August 29, 2016 at 10:55 am

  These factors should be kept in mind while installing a roof. Thanks for the differentiation.

• Buddy M. Dietz

  May 10, 2018 at 6:55 am

  Nice comparison and Ideas regarding on selecting the best roofs to be installed. In my end if I can afford the best one then Ill go for it.

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Do You Need Underlayment For Metal Roofing Over Shingles

Underlayment is not required when installing metal roofing over shingles but is a definite plus. This extra layer ensures the previous shingles are not under continued stress which could lead to an increased risk of roof damage. While a metal roof is extremely durable compared to shingles, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Installing Metal Roofing Over Existing Shingles

It is a common occurrence in the roofing business to install metal roofing systems over existing shingles. This practice is largely encouraged by the fact that metal roofing is incredibly lightweight. As a comparison, steel shingles generally weigh about ¼ of what asphalt shingles weigh. This suggests that less weight is being added when you install a metal roof than what your existing shingles have lost due to erosion of granules and evaporation of oils in the asphalt.

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Factors To Consider When Installing A Metal Roof Over Shingles

• What we said above about installing metal over shingles is true in the majority of cases. But its always best to check with your local building and zoning departments to make sure they approve metal-over-shingle installations.
• If your shingle roof has leaks, youll need to inspect for rotting rafters or sheeting. These problems should be fixed before installing the new roof.
• If the current roofs weight has caused structural problems like buckled trusses or decking that is sagging, these issues need to be addressed before new installation begins.
• Its usually a good idea to consider adding some type of underlayment on top of the shingles to prevent their granules from contacting the metal and leading to corrosion. Your metal roofing contractor will tell you about options for this.

Is It Better To Have Metal Roof Or Shingles

Because theyre largely made of recycled material and can be recycled again and again, metal roofs are considered a more sustainable choice than asphalt shingles. Metal roofs are also more energy-efficient thanks to their reflective qualities, which can block heat transmission to the homes interior.

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Advantages Of Installing A Metal Roof Over Existing Shingles

A new metal roof installed correctly over an existing shingle roof can provide many benefits. Some advantages include:

• Improved durability
• An extra layer of defense
• Improved cooling efficiency
• Lower labor costs
• Reduced installation time

With proper care, metal roofs will last much longer than shingle roofs. Metal roofing will last upwards of 50 years if properly maintained. Installing metal over shingle roofing will not only provide that longer life span, but also improve the lifespan of the shingles, which will be shielded from the elements.

This durability will also protect your home as an added layer in addition to your shingles. Metal panels are hail, rain, sun, and in general storm-resistant. However, even if it happens to leak, you will still have the shingles as well.

Best of all, this roof will reflect heat instead of absorbing it. Your shingle roof does not reflect as much heat as metal will. By reflecting heat, it will save you money in the long run on cooling your home.

The biggest bonus comes from not removing the current roof. There is less labor involved when you dont tear up the previous roof. Installing metal over shingles means less mess and less work. This keeps costs low for you.

While contractors only go as fast as is safe, they can save a lot of time by not removing the old roof. This will have the process done quickly, so your house doesnt look like a construction zone for as long.

Is It Possible To Install A Metal Roof Over Shingles

Is it Possible to Install a Metal Roof Over Shingles? The advantages of metal roofing versus asphalt roofing systems are numerous. While asphalt shingles are the traditional option, metal roofing is becoming more and more popular in the residential space, providing a long-lasting, durable alternative to asphalt shingles. The durability comes from the materials resistance to rotting and termites, as well as being an economical choice because it does not require frequent repairs and replacements.

If you already have a shingle roof and are looking to make the switch to metal roofing, you may be wondering how that process works. Do you need a complete roof replacement? Or can you install a metal roof over shingles?

The answer is you can generally install a metal roof on top of shingles if there are fewer than four layers of shingles on the roof, but the exact standards vary by area. However, that process can lead to a variety of complications and therefore is not recommended. In this guide, you will learn the steps necessary to complete a move from a shingle roof to metal roofing and why a metal roof can be an ideal choice for your home.

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Are You Able To Install A Metal Roof Over Shingles

The short answer is yes. Installing metal roofing over existing shingles is an excellent approach used by contractors to help homeowners save on expenses and maximize the longevity of their new roof. While shingles might be a relatively inexpensive roofing material initially, they require constant maintenance and need to be replaced often.

A key issue with this, besides the cost of replacement, is that shingles are not recyclable. Landfills and disposal companies can charge a large fee to accept them, and the consistent creation and disposal of shingles is harmful to the environment. However, a metal roof can be completely recycled at the end of its lifespan, helping to protect and preserve the environment.

By selecting a metal roof, you are able to break free from the shingle replacement cycle. While metal roofing does require a larger initial investment, it can last over 50 years with little maintenance. A metal roof also adds to your homes curb appeal and value as it continues to look great over time.

Can Metal Roofs Be Installed Over Shingles

In simplest terms: Yes, you can install a metal roof over shingles. However, youll want to check with your local building department before you make any decisions. Building officials in some areas will only allow a re-roof over one layer of shingles, while officials in other places may allow you to place the roof over two layers of shingles. Fortunately, in most areas, it wont be an issue if youre only going over one layer.

Not a real zip code.

Section 1511.3.1 of the 2018 International Building Code 1st Edition states, The installation of a new roof covering over an existing roof covering shall be permitted where any of the following conditions occur2. Complete and separate roofing systems, such as standing-seam metal roof panel systems, that are designed to transmit the roof loads directly to the buildings structural system and that do not rely on existing roofs and roof coverings for support, shall not require the removal of existing roof coverings.

So, its possible to have the installation of metal roofing over shingles, which is great news! But you might be wondering what the advantages and disadvantages are and what to keep in mind during installation. Keep reading to find out.

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Is It Ok To Put A Metal Roof Over Shingles

Depending on the situation, it may be fine to put a metal roof on top of shingles. Its important to take the specific factors of your roof replacement into consideration when deciding what to do about removing your old roof or not.

You should remove your old asphalt shingle roof before installing a metal roof when:

• There are signs of structural issues from the weight of your roof.
• There is leaking or other damage caused by your current roof.
• Your metal roof warranty will be void by installing over asphalt shingles.
• You have to in order to comply with local building codes.

You may decide to install a metal roofing material over old asphalt shingle roof when:

• Its in compliance with your local building code.
• You are using roofing underlayment and vented ridge cap to prevent moisture buildup.
• You are looking to save money in the short term by saving on labor costs.
• You will still be eligible for warranty coverage.

No matter which way you decide to go, avoiding errors during installation is crucial to the longevity of your metal roof. The installation of your new metal roof requires a different set of skills than installing a shingle roof. Its important to hire a qualified metal roofing contractor to do your installation.

Haven’t decided on a color or style for your new metal roof? Download our free guide to choosing the right metal roof color!

Should You Remove Old Shingles Before Installing A Metal Roof

Metal roofs can be installed over your existing roof without tearing off shingles, provided local building codes allow it. While shingle removal is the preferred route, tear-off is messy and raises the cost of the job. If trapped between the metal roofing and old roofing, moisture can build up and cause mold and rot.

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Ridge Vents Are More Obvious

On most homes today, attic venting is provided by a continuous ridge vent that runs across the peak of the roof. On a shingled roof, this continuous ridge vent is a strip of shingle-like material that runs the entire length of the peak of the house, masking outflow holes on the sides of the ridge. You likely have seen this countless times, but probably never really noticed because the CRV usually lies very flat and blends in perfectly with the surrounding roof.

On many metal roofs, especially standing-seam roofs, the CRV is also metal, and it stands out further and is thus much more noticeable. These thick, prominent lines or ridges are inherent in metal roofs and add to their distinctive look.

Installation With Fanfold Insulation

The second method of installing metal roofs over shingles is using an insulating layer. The main task of this layer is to protect the asphalt roof, which will be located under the metal, from overheating.

Since the asphalt roof will be under the metal roof, it wont be able to cool down as quickly when the sun goes down. This can lead to overheating of the home, which can cause many inconveniences. In addition, high temperatures can cause the asphalt roof composition to melt and deform.

To avoid these problems, quarter-inch insulation is used. In addition, this layer also helps in the process of installing a metal roof. It prevents the appearance of dents in the attachment points of the new metal roof.

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Is It Possible To Install Metal Roofing Over A Shingle Roof

Yes, you can install a metal roof over existing asphalt shingles. As long as you meet all the requirements of your local building department, the shingles do not necessarily have to be removed before installing metal roofing.

That’s the short answer to the question: can you install metal roofing over a shingle roof? However, just because you can doesn’t mean that you should. Before deciding to go this route, there are several important factors to consider. You probably have questions about the installation process, as well as the pros and cons of not removing your existing shingle roof. All of that and more will be answered in this article. Lets begin.