Let’s get one thing straight: layering shingles on a roof isn’t a shortcut; it’s a mistake. It might seem like an easy way to “save money” now, but it sets your home up for serious problems down the line. If your roof has more than one layer of shingles, it’s time to stop putting it off and get it checked, like yesterday.
So What’s the Problem With Layered Shingles?
1. Weight That Your Roof Can’t Handle
Roofs are designed to support one layer of shingles, not two (and definitely not three). Adding more weight than it was built for can strain the structure, leading to sagging, cracking, or even collapse over time. Think of it like wearing three winter coats in July, heavy, sweaty, and totally unnecessary.
2. You’re Trapping Problems Underneath
When new shingles are laid over old ones, there’s no way to see what’s going on underneath. Leaks, rot, mold, and damaged decking all get buried and ignored. By the time you realize something’s wrong, the damage is deep and costly.
3. It Shortens the Life of Your Roof
Shingles are made to lie flat on a smooth surface. Layering over old, curled, or damaged shingles means the new layer doesn’t seal properly. That opens the door for wind, rain, and ice to do their worst, speeding up wear and tear.
4. Warranties Can Get Voided
Most manufacturers and roofing companies won’t honor warranties if shingles are improperly installed over an old layer. So if something fails, guess who’s footing the bill? You.
5. You’re Just Delaying the Inevitable
A second layer doesn’t solve problems. It hides them. And when the time finally comes to replace everything (because it will come), it’ll cost more to tear off multiple layers and repair the damage underneath.
So, What Should You Do?
If your home has layered shingles, don’t wait for signs of damage. Have your roof inspected by professionals who can give you a clear picture of what’s going on up there. In many cases, a full tear-off and proper replacement is the smartest (and safest) investment you can make.
At The Third Estimate, we don’t believe in shortcuts, just strong, beautiful roofs built to last. If you’re not sure what’s on your roof, let’s find out. Schedule a free inspection, and we’ll take it from there.
It’s not just a roof. It’s your home’s first defense. Let’s do it right.
Contact The Third Estimate today for a free consultation and see why we’re the trusted choice for homeowners across Northeast Ohio. Remember, we’re “Small Enough to Listen, Big Enough to Deliver!”
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