5 Reasons You Should Not Spot-Repair Roofs by Adding Shingle Layers
Just because something is cost-effective and convenient does not mean it is the best solution to a problem.
There are right and wrong roof repair techniques, and it is important to determine which one is the best for your situation. Some homeowners that have roof damage concentrated in one or several locations may be tempted to pursue spot repairs instead of replacing their entire roof. At the moment, spot repairs may seem like the best option. However, spot repairs could eventually cause more problems than solutions!
Here are five reasons why spot repairs are not advisable.
SPOT REPAIRS DECREASE A ROOF’S AESTHETICS
The curb appeal of your home impacts its value. Even if you are not planning to sell your home in the near future, you should consider the appearance of your roof after adding layers of shingles to random sections. It can be difficult to exactly match the color of new shingles to existing shingles. Patches are visible, and the roof doesn’t look as good.
SHINGLE PATCHES MAY BE VULNERABLE TO DETACHING
When you add shingles to your roof, you are placing them on top of existing shingles that have wear and tear. At this point, the old shingles have probably curved with age. Because the new shingles are not placed on a smooth surface, they will not lay flat and are more likely to detach from your roof in a strong wind or storm. This may leave you in an even more dire situation than when you first started.
ADDING SHINGLES IS SOMETIMES NOT FEASIBLE
Some state regulations prohibit the addition of a second layer of shingles to a roof. In states where adding additional layers is permitted, it is nevertheless not always possible. If your home’s current layer of shingles has a ridged surface with gaps, it’s almost impossible to add a secure second layer.
The weight of additional shingles must also be considered. How large is the area you want to cover? Be sure that your roof can support the extra weight of the second layer of shingles.
ALGAE AND MOLD MAY GROW BETWEEN SHINGLE LAYERS
Even if the second layer of shingles is installed well, it may become the perfect habitat for algae and mold, both of which can spread quickly and result in health hazards. The second layer of shingles will hold water while the underlying shingles will remain dark and damp. If you already see signs of mold or algae growth (dark streaks running across your roof), a second layer will only hide the problem. In the end, the consequences will be costly.
OVER TIME, SHINGLE PATCHES ARE NOT COST-EFFECTIVE
Saving money is always tempting. However, consider how saving money initially could lead to unexpected issues and costly repairs later.
Adding a second layer of shingles may necessitate replacing your entire roof sooner than would have been necessary otherwise—and having to pay to remove the second layer of shingles plus the first layer. Home inspectors actually make a point to report second roof layers to potential homebuyers for all of these reasons.
Consider the risks and the long-term impact of making repairs by adding shingles. It might be better to replace the roof.
