Lay over me… or not- Cle Elum Home inspection- Roofs

So you need a new roof what should I do, and what is right?

We all know that one layer of roofing material is best, right? This should always be the standard answer in my book, no exceptions but hey I do always get to write the rules.

And it is very obvious that most think the code says we can add a second layer of roofing, right?

Well hold on there buckaroo, the answer has a qualifier… The code actually states something that many overlook.

                             

So let’s take a peak what the code actually states:


From the IRC (international residential code)-  

R907.3 Re-covering versus replacement.

New roof coverings shall not be installed without first removing existing roof coverings where any of the following conditions occur:

1.      Where the existing roof or roof covering is water-soaked or has deteriorated to the point that the existing roof or roof covering is not adequate as a base for additional roofing.

2.      Where the existing roof covering is wood shake, slate, clay, cement or asbestos-cement tile.

3.      Where the existing roof has two or more applications of any type of roof covering.

4.      For asphalt shingles, when the building is located in an area subject to moderate or severe hail exposure according to Figure R903.5.

Exceptions:
1. Complete and separate roofing systems, such as standing-seam metal roof systems, that are designed to transmit the roof loads directly to the building’s structural system and that do not rely on existing roofs and roof coverings for support, shall not require the removal of existing roof coverings.
2. Installation of metal panel, metal shingle, and concrete and clay tile roof coverings over existing wood shake roofs shall be permitted when the application is in accordance with Section R907.4.
3. The application of new protective coating over existing spray polyurethane foam roofing systems shall be permitted without tear-off of existing roof coverings.

So there you have it, the answer is maybe if certain condition can be met.

Or the simpler answer, which is what this Wenatchee Home Inspector always advises, is do not do it and just remove the exiting roof and do it right.

This way your roof decking is inspected and the job can be completed more professionally, your home will love you for it!

Make me happy and hire a true professional roofer.

                                                       

“Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren't used to an environment where excellence is expected.”

Steve Jobs

NCW Home Inspections, LLC  is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Orville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more… 
   

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www.ncwhomeinspections.com