If your roofing is battered and aged, a new roof installation could make a crucial difference in preventing leaks and improving your home’s energy efficiency. Many homeowners choose to address roof issues by installing a second layer of shingles on top of their existing roof. While this can help save money initially, it isn’t an optimal long-term option. Here are three reasons why.

Top 3 Reasons to Not Install a Second Layer of Shingles

1. Too Much Weight

Your home’s structure can only handle so much weight. For most homes, the roof is designed to hold a single layer of shingles. A second layer of shingles could prove to be too much weight for your house to handle, particularly in adverse weather. This greatly increases the risk of structural damage to your home.

2. Lumpy Appearance

A new roof installation should make your roof look like new. Unfortunately, when a new layer of shingles is placed over an existing layer, especially one that’s damaged, the final result will appear lumpy and uneven. Gaps or bumps in the underlying layer will make it harder to properly mount new shingles, affecting the roof’s functionality as well as its appearance.

3. Greater Risk of Leaks

Placing a new layer of shingles over your old roofing will fail to address any leaks or maintenance problems you were previously experiencing. It also means you won’t have new water leak barriers installed on your roof. The additional layer of shingles will also make it harder for contractors to access areas in need of repair in the future. All of this will greatly increase your risk of water damage in the future.

Whether you need roof repair or a brand new roof installation, you can count on CWC Roofing and Exteriors. For over 90 years, their licensed team provides accurate inspections and estimates and the latest in roofing tech to ensure stellar results for your property. They’re based in St. Louis, MO, with an additional location in Naples, FL. To learn more about their services or to request an estimate, visit them online or call (314) 633-5777.