Roof systems wear out over time, or they can get damaged from extreme weather events. Depending on material and quality, you can expect your roof to last for several years or even decades. Of course, proper maintenance is also a huge factor in determining the life span of a roof. But once the time has finally come to replace your roofing, it’s best to do a complete tear-off instead of reroofing. A complete tear-off usually involves the removal of the old underlayment.

roof underlayment

In this post, roof installation expert De Palma Construction discusses the advantages of replacing the entire roof, including the underlayment.

Do I Really Need to Remove the Old Underlayment?

A complete tear-off is often recommended by professionals to ensure that the new roof is compliant with building codes. In many cases, this is also needed to keep the validity of roofing warranties. But aside from meeting these requirements, roof tear-offs can also yield better and longer-lasting results. Below are the top reasons why you should remove the old underlayment when replacing your roof:

  • A tear-off allows your roofer to conduct a more thorough roof inspection and check for rot, mold or any damage in your roof decking. It’s important to know if these issues exist so that your contractor can properly address them before installing the new roof. If such issues are neglected, they could affect the quality, performance and longevity of your roof.

  • The underlayment is found underneath the shingles. So if your old shingles are worn or damaged, it’s likely that the underlayment is in bad shape as well. Through a complete tear-off, you can remove and replace your old underlayment and be able to ensure quality support for your shingles.

  • Review the terms and conditions of your roofing warranty as it may require a roof tear-off. Failure to follow manufacturer instructions could void your warranty, so make sure to check this information before choosing between a tear-off and an overlay.

When Is It OK to Opt for Reroofing?

Reroofing may only be recommended if your roof is still in overall good condition. This means that your roof should have no water damage, moss or mildew problems, and missing shingles. If none of these issues are present, your roofer may be fine with an overlay.

De Palma Construction is a one-stop-shop for all your roofing needs. From roof installation to storm damage repair, you can count on our crew to carry out the job efficiently and properly. Call us at (717) 638-1131 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.