Should shingles be removed before metal roof?
If you plan to install metal roofing over shingles, you may be confused about removing the shingles or retrofitting the metal roofing over them. Although you can install metal roofing over shingles and other roofing types, you should consider certain factors to achieve the best results possible.
One of the reasons many homeowners choose metal roofing these days is that it can be installed directly over shingles. This offers many benefits to the building, helps save money, and reduces the waste that gets to the landfill. However, this is not possible in all cases; thus, you need to evaluate the possibility.
Signs That You Need Remove Shingles before Installing Metal Roofing
It would be necessary to tear down your shingles before installing metal roofing under the following circumstances:
1. Badly-shaped or Damaged Shingles
When the shingles are so rough, damaged, and in bad shape that they will unavoidably dent or affect the metal roof’s appearance, they should be removed to avoid damaging the metal roofing or reducing its lifespan and visual appeal.
2. Rotten Deck Sheathing
If the deck sheathing is damaged with signs of rot and requires major repairs, it would be best to remove the shingles before retrofitting the metal roofing into it. The roofer must check the shingles’ present condition and the deck sheathing before attempting to install a metal roofing on the roof.
3. Building Codes
Suppose the local building codes specify that roofs with multiple layers of shingles or other roof types be removed before installing a metal roofing; in that case, you must comply with the regulation and remove the shingles.
On the other hand, if you have installed several layers of shingles on the roof, removing the shingles to avoid putting excessive weight on the building may be necessary. Putting too much weight on the building can compromise its structural integrity.
4. Installation Difficulties
Remove the shingles if installing a metal roofing will prove difficult because of the existing shingles. For instance, if screws and nails for the metal roof cannot reach into existing roofing’s layers, tear down the shingles to ensure correct and proper installation of the metal roofing. Metal roofing should be properly fastened to be safely installed.
Takeaway
Let your roofer check the factors discussed above and advise you accordingly. If everything is alright with the roof and the factors discussed above, you can go ahead and install a metal roofing without fear.
