When fixing an existing residential roof, you can choose to re-roof or replace the structure. A re-roof is a cheaper and less labor-intensive project because it involves installing a layer of shingles over the existing ones. On the other hand, roof replacement involves tearing off the existing roof to install a new one. A roof replacement offers better performance and longevity as compared to a re-roof. Therefore, if you are torn between the two options, check out these benefits of a complete roof replacement over a re-roof.
Tackle Weather Damage and Age-Related Wear
Weather damage and age-related wear are the leading causes of roof failure. They cause roof leaks, mold and mildew growth, insulation damage, and energy inefficiencies. You will want to tear down the roof to find out the extent of the damage to the structure. Therefore, covering the existing materials with new ones doesn't resolve the problem. For example, if a roof leak damages the decking and insulation below, a re-roof won't address the damage.
A complete roof replacement allows proper tackling of weather damage and age-related wear. The project involves removing all the old materials, including the shingles, underlay, insulation, and gutters. If the decking has water damage, it can be removed as well. The project may be costly and intensive, but it reveals and fixes all the underlying problems. Therefore, the new roof is likely to last longer and perform better than a re-roofed structure.
Improve the Roof's Functionality
A residential roof is more than just a structural covering. It has insulation that provides a thermal barrier that inhibits heat loss and boosts indoor comfort. The roof houses ventilation systems that remove excess humidity from the house. If these systems aren't working properly, the roof won't function correctly. A re-roof targets the surface of the roof and ignores the underlying systems.
Replacing an existing roof allows you to examine the performance of the insulation and ventilation system. If there is inadequate ventilation, you can redesign the new roof to include mechanical ventilation systems. You can also replace old insulation, add a skylight, and create space for penetrations. This improves the roof's overall functionality and performance.
Redesign the Entire Roof
Is your current roof design not working for you anymore? If so, consider a roof replacement. For example, if you have a sloped roof, you can switch to a flat roof and change the appearance of the structure's exterior. A roof replacement also allows you to choose different roofing materials. For example, if asphalt shingles aren't working for your needs or climate, you can replace them with metal, rubber, membrane, or solar tiles.
Does your roof have severe weather and age-related damage? Is your roof design no longer practical for your home? A roof replacement allows you to upgrade the entire roof for better performance. Contact a roofing contractor for further consultation.
When you have something you like inside a jar, you probably put a lid on it — right? In a way, you can think of your house in the same manner. You like and value the items inside, along with the inside of the house itself. So, it only makes sense that you would protect the interior of your home with a lid. That lid is your roof.
Keep that perspective in mind as you read this blog. Learning more about roofing will feel more interesting if you remember what a roof does: it protects the inside of the home and the people who live in it.