New Roof vs. Re-Roof

Do I need a new roof or can I re-roof?

If you are having roofing issues or your shingles are becoming unsightly you may be considering a new roof. New roof installation can be pricey however there are a couple of options. Depending on the condition of your current roof you may be able to re-roof instead. Knowing the difference between a new roof as opposed to a re-roof will help you proceed.

New roof

If your home it needs a whole new roof this means that the current roofing material will be fully removed and the wood base will be inspected and repaired if necessary. A brand-new roof can last about 20 years without major problems. However the lifespan of your roof is based on how harsh weather conditions are and how well you maintain your roof. Inspecting the roof regularly for damage such as moisture will help.

The shape of your shingles is important because any curling or dimpling on the edges could indicate that moisture is being retained. If the shingles have missing parts or cracks this can lead to major problems with water leakage. If you have significant shingle damage you will most likely need a new roof.

Also if your shingles have moss or mold growing on them they will need to be replaced immediately. Discolored shingles or any dark streaks in your roof could mean that algae is starting to form which means that there is water leakage. Any type of algae or growth holds in moisture and causes major roof damage. Any presence of growth indicates that you need to have your shingles replaced.

Re-Roof

If your roof is in decent condition then you could be eligible for re-roofing. This process takes much less time and is less expensive than getting a whole new roof. If your roof has only one layer of shingles then re-roofing is possible by adding a second layer. There are a few important factors to keep in mind before choosing to re-roof.

You must not have any visible shingle damage or moss or algae growth on your current roof. If this is the case you need to have your roof repaired and replaced. Also your current shingles need to be flat and not curled up on the edges in order to place a new flat layer of shingles on top. If you have just a couple of areas on your current roof that need repair it may be possible to repair the small areas and then re-roof.

Keep in mind that it is impossible to check for major roofing damage when you re-roof as opposed to getting a new roof. You could be covering up damage that will only lead to larger problems. The layering of shingles could also hinder airflow which can affect your HVAC bills. Initially re-roofing will save you money however in the long run if you go with a full roof replacement you will have peace of mind for many years.

A professional roofer can help you make this decision. Call the experts at GDC Contracting Inc. today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional roofers to determine what’s best for your home.