If a roof replacement is in your home’s very near future, you’ve probably heard that you have two main options when re-roofing an asphalt roof: tear off and overlay. Last month, we wrote a blog about all things overlay roof, and this month, we’re going to tackle the topic of tear-off roofs. In nearly every situation, a tear-off roof is the better choice, and we’re going to tell you why. Though it might cost you just a little bit extra, a tear-off roof replacement has so many benefits that really outweigh the slight additional cost. Here are 5 of the most important benefits of a tear-off roof instead of an overlay re-roofing project.
#1 Long-Term Solution
When you opt for a tear-off roof replacement, your roofer will tear everything off your existing roof. That means old shingles, old underlayment, and even any decking that’s been compromised or is starting to rot will be removed. Then, everything is replaced with brand-new materials. By completely tearing off the old roof, your home gets to start fresh. This is a long-term solution that can last you anywhere from 20-30 years, depending on the new asphalt shingles you choose, and the materials your roofer uses.
A tear-off re-roofing project is the closest you’ll get to a brand new roof, which means it can offer you the most benefits for the longest amount of time. For years, you won’t have to worry about potential leaks, structural problems, etc. And because your home only has one layer of shingles, you’re putting a lot less stress on the structure of the home. That means you’re helping extend the lifespan of your home itself, too.
#2 Upgrade your Roof Structure
Since a tear-off roof project literally means that your roofer will tear off any old material, this project gives you the opportunity to upgrade your roof structure if necessary. Let’s say you live in an older home that’s seen quite a few years. If you’re working with a roof structure that’s anywhere from 50-100 years old, a tear-off roof project gives you the opportunity to make serious upgrades.
Roofing technology has come a long way in the last few decades, and if you’re hoping to make your home more energy efficient with new insulation in your attic or reinforce older structures, a tear-off roofing project gives you the access you need to make those upgrades happen.
#3 Looks Brand New
One key concern that comes with an overlay roof project is that they don’t always come out looking brand new. To complete an overlay roof, your roofer will add another layer of shingles on top of your existing roof. If your roof has any sort of sway or buckle to it, an overlay roof is only going to accentuate those problems. When you opt for a tear-off roof, you’re pretty much investing in a brand new roof. From the shingles to underlayment and even the decking of your roof, if necessary, every component of your roof will be brand new, and it will look it, too.
#4 Added Home Value
If there’s one thing a new homeowner definitely doesn’t want to worry about, it’s roof replacement. A new roof can provide as much as a 105% return on investment. That’s a serious value. An overlay roof, on the other hand, can actually decrease the value of your home, as it can negatively affect your curb appeal, and it’s a negative point for sellers, who won’t want to deal with removing two layers of the roof instead of just one. So, if you’re planning on selling anytime soon, a tear-off roof replacement is certainly in your best interest.
#5 Simple Maintenance
A key benefit of a brand new roof is that you don’t have to think about it for a while. A new tear-off roof offers the exact same benefits. When your roof is replaced by a trusted roofer, and with high-quality materials, you shouldn’t have to worry about any troublesome leaks or problems for years to come. Overlay roofs, on the other hand, can compound maintenance problems, making them more difficult for roofers to identify and fix. With a tear-off roof replacement, if you do need any maintenance completed down the line, leaks and problems will be easy to spot, and equally as easy for your roofer to fix.
Time for a new roof? Werner Roofing is a trusted, local roofing company holding the prestigious Master Elite Certification. That means whether you’re looking for a brand new roof or a tear-off roof replacement, we can provide you with the highest quality GAF asphalt shingles on the market. Give us a call, we’d love to schedule your roof replacement.
