When your roof is in poor condition, either due to age or damage, it may no longer be able to keep moisture out. This can be a huge problem, as it can lead to a roof leak. Roof leaks can be damaging, as water can damage your roof sheathing, roof support beams, insulation, as well as any other space below the roof. Roof leaks can also cause mold or mildew to grow in your home. If you are in need of residential roof replacement, you may not realize that there are three different ways to replace your roof. Read on to learn more about these replacement options. 

Roof Tear-Off

When you hear the words roof replacement, most people automatically think of the roof tear-off replacement option. A roof tear-off means that all of your existing roofing materials are torn off of the roof, and new roofing materials are installed. This may be your only option if the structure of your roof has been damaged by water or pests, or is bowed or sinking inward due to weight issues. 

Second Layer

Another option that you may have when it comes to residential roof replacement is adding a second layer. Adding a second layer involves adding a second layer of roofing materials on top of your existing roofing materials. This essentially gives you a new roof without having to undergo the tear-off process. Second-layer roofing can only be completed with certain roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, EPDM, or TPO roofs.  

Retrofitting a Roof

The final option that is available to you when you need to replace your residential roof is retrofitting a roof. Retrofitting is very similar to the second-layer roof replacement option. However, instead of adding a new layer of the same material over your existing roofing material, retrofitting involves applying metal sheets or panels over your existing roofing material to create a new roof. Just like second-layer roofing, you get a new roof without having to remove your existing roof. 

When your roof has reached the end of its life or is damaged to such a point that repairs are not worth it or are simply not possible, it is time for residential roof replacement. Depending on the type of roof you have in place and the condition of the roof, you may be able to add a second layer to your roof, retrofit your roof, or have the roof tear-off process completed. 

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