Reroofing, a method of layering a new set of shingles over an existing roof, is a popular choice among homeowners considering roof replacements. Specifically, when it comes to asphalt shingles, the most widely used roofing material, the idea of reroofing rather than a complete tear-off can often seem appealing due to cost and time effectiveness. But are there restrictions on this practice? And, importantly, is it allowed in Arizona?
This blog post delves into the intricacies of reroofing with asphalt shingles and seeks to clarify its legal standing within the state of Arizona. So, if you're an Arizona homeowner with a roof in need of attention, read on!
Is Reroofing Allowed in Arizona?
Yes, reroofing is indeed allowed in Arizona. However, before overlaying a new layer of asphalt shingles on an existing single-layer roof, your roofing team from Lyons Roofing will need to confirm that your current roof structure is sound and can support the weight.
If your roof already has two layers, a complete tear-off will be required before installing a new layer.
The Reroofing Process
Before initiating the reroofing process, the preparation of your existing roof is crucial. The first step is thoroughly inspecting the current roof structure to identify any damages or weak areas that need repair. Clearing the roof of any debris, such as leaves or branches, is also necessary to provide a clean base for the new layer of shingles.
Once your old roof is prepped and ready to go, the reroofing process can begin, typically involving the following three stages:
- Repair: any damaged or rotten sections of the roof decking are repaired and prepped for the new layer
- Application: the new layer of asphalt shingles is applied, adhering closely to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Final inspection: Our team performs a final inspection and cleans up
To prepare your property for reroofing, it's essential to clear your yard and protect your landscaping. Remove any loose items like garden tools, lawn furniture, or children's toys from the vicinity of your house, and consider covering valuable plants or shrubs with tarps to shield them from falling debris.
Benefits of Reroofing vs. a Full Replacement
When assessing the state of their roofs, many homeowners face the decision of whether to opt for a complete tear-off or simply reroof. There are several reasons why reroofing often becomes the preferred choice over a complete replacement.
Reroofing is generally less expensive than a complete roof tear-off since it eliminates the labor and disposal costs involved in stripping off the old shingles. Additionally, with fewer steps involved, reroofing typically takes less time to complete, minimizing disruption to your life.
Assessing If Your Roof is a Good Candidate for Reroofing
Establishing whether your roof is a suitable candidate for reroofing is a critical step before deciding on your next course of action. While there may be visible signs that your roof may need attention, the only definitive way to ascertain its suitability for reroofing versus a total replacement is by scheduling an inspection with Lyons Roofing's team of professionals.
A comprehensive roof inspection will assess the structural integrity of your existing roof, checking for signs of damage or decay that could compromise the performance of new shingles. Remember, a reroof is only as good as the roof it covers - underlying problems will only persist if not appropriately addressed.
Our experts will look for issues like:
- Damaged or rotten sections of the roof decking
- Sagging areas
- Leaks
Some issues that might suggest a full replacement is more appropriate. For instance, if your roof has already undergone reroofing once, a second overlay is not advisable due to the weight of the additional layer. Similarly, if your roof has extensive structural damage, or the underlying deck is not in a sound condition, a complete replacement is likely to be the best option.
Are you considering a reroof? Contact Lyons Roofing to schedule a professional roof inspection and find out if reroofing is a good idea for your home.
