When your roof shows its age, you have two main choices: remove the old shingles and start fresh (a “full tear‑off”) or install a new layer directly on top (“roof‑over”). Each method has vocal supporters, but the right call depends on budget, structure, and long‑term plans. Below, we break down the key advantages and drawbacks so Parry Sound homeowners can make an informed and profitable decision.
PRO #1: Lower upfront cost
Skipping the tear‑off labour and disposal can trim 20–25 % from the invoice. For many cash‑conscious families, that savings makes urgently needed work possible. Ainger Roofing offers flexible financing so you can capitalize on these lower first‑year costs without sacrificing quality materials.
PRO #2: Faster installation
A typical 1,800 sq‑ft roof‑over wraps in one to two days, minimizing disruption to your daily routine and protecting exposed decking from sudden Georgian Bay weather shifts. Our crews stage materials the evening before, so your Parry Sound roofing upgrade is watertight before sunset.
PRO #3: Extra insulation & sound dampening
A second shingle layer adds an R‑value boost of roughly R‑1 and muffles rain or hail. While that’s no substitute for proper attic insulation, every bit helps in Northern Ontario winters.
CON #1: Hidden damage stays hidden
Soft spots, mouldy sheathing, or degraded underlayment stay buried. Left unaddressed, these issues can shorten the life of the new roof and void manufacturer warranties. At Ainger Roofing, we use thermal imaging and moisture meters to detect concealed rot before recommending any roof‑over.
CON #2: Added weight to the structure
One shingle layer weighs 2–4 lbs per square foot. Doubling up can push older rafters near load limits, especially when combined with heavy snow. Our technicians calculate live‑load capacity against current Ontario Building Code specs and provide written clearance before proceeding.
CON #3: Shorter lifespan & limited colour choice
Because heat builds up between layers, roof‑overs often age 5–8 years faster than single‑layer systems. Colour selection is limited to darker tones that mask the first layer’s profile. If curb appeal or long‑term resale value tops your list, a tear‑off plus modern, reflective shingles may pay off.
Tear‑Off vs. Roof‑Over: Which Is Right for You?
- Roof age and condition: If the existing shingles are curling or the deck feels spongy, invest in a full tear‑off.
- Budget vs. ownership horizon: Planning to sell in three to five years? A quick roof‑over can be financially savvy. Staying long‑term? Tear‑off delivers better ROI.
- Energy goals: Upgrading attic ventilation or adding ice‑and‑water shield is only possible with a tear‑off.
Why Parry Sound Homeowners Choose Ainger Roofing
- Data‑driven consultations. load calculations, and itemized cost‑benefit reports—so you see the numbers behind every recommendation.
- Local code expertise. Three decades of Parry Sound roofing experience mean flawless permit handling and compliance.
- Eco‑responsible disposal. We recycle up to 90 % of torn‑off asphalt into roadbase, keeping waste out of local landfills.
- Iron‑clad warranties. Up to 50‑year manufacturer coverage plus our 10‑year workmanship guarantee—roof‑over or tear‑off.
Still weighing your options? Book a free, no‑obligation roof assessment or call us at 705‑444‑5712. Let us turn today’s question into tomorrow’s peace of mind—one Parry Sound roofing solution at a time.
