As a homeowner, you want your roof to be strong and long-lasting, providing protection to your family and belongings. However, it's not uncommon for homeowners to overlook some common roofing defects, such as two layers of roof coverings. While many licensed roofers may install this type of roof covering, it is still considered a defect. In this article, we will explain why, as well as the complications that could arise and signs of failure.
Understanding Two Layers of Roof Coverings
A two-layer roof is when a new layer of roofing material is installed on top of an existing layer. This is often done to save time and money, as it's less expensive to add a new layer of shingles than to tear off the old ones and start from scratch. However, this practice can lead to a variety of complications and issues.
The Pros and Cons of Two Layers of Roof Coverings
While two layers of roof coverings may seem like a good idea at first glance, there are both pros and cons to this practice.
Pros:
Adding a new layer of shingles can save time and money
Provides an extra layer of insulation, which can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter
Cons:
The extra weight of the second layer of shingles can strain the roof structure, leading to damage or collapse
The two layers of roofing can cause the roof to become uneven, which can lead to pooling water and leaks
The lower layer of shingles can become damaged from moisture and heat, leading to the growth of mold and mildew, and reducing the lifespan of the roof.
Why Two Layers of Roof Coverings Are Considered a Defect
Two layers of roof coverings are considered a defect because they can cause problems down the line. For instance, the additional weight of the extra layer can strain the roof's structure, leading to sagging or even collapse in extreme cases. The extra layer can also trap moisture and heat, leading to the growth of mold and mildew, as well as reducing the lifespan of the roof covering.
Complications That Could Arise
There are several complications that could arise with a two-layer roof. First, as mentioned, the extra weight can strain the roof structure, leading to damage or collapse. Additionally, the two layers of roofing can cause the roof to become uneven, which can lead to pooling water and leaks. Furthermore, the lower layer of shingles can become damaged from moisture and heat, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, and reduce the lifespan of the roof.
Signs of Failure
If you have a two-layer roof, it's essential to keep an eye out for signs of failure. These can include:
Sagging or uneven roof surface
Buckling or cracking shingles
Granule loss
Leaks or water damage inside the home
Moisture or mold in the attic
What Home Inspectors Look For
Home inspectors are trained to look for defects in a home, including two layers of roof coverings. During a home inspection, an inspector will examine the roof to determine if it has one or two layers of shingles. If there are two layers, the inspector will note this as a defect and recommend that it be corrected.
Conclusion
While it may seem like a good idea to add a new layer of shingles to save time and money, the reality is that two layers of roof coverings can lead to significant complications and issues down the line. As a homeowner, it's important to have your roof inspected regularly, especially if you suspect that there may be two layers of shingles. By catching and correcting this defect early, you can ensure that your roof lasts for years to come.