You have probably seen sleek metal roofs and wondered, can you put one over your old shingles? It is a smart question. Replacing a roof is costly and messy. Many homeowners want a quicker, cheaper way. The answer is yes, in many cases you can. But it is not always the best idea. Let us walk through when it works, what to watch for, and how to do it right.
Why Some Homeowners Choose This Option
Many homeowners choose to put a metal roof over shingles to save money and time. Tearing off shingles takes days and adds labor costs. Keeping them can save a few thousand dollars. As one homeowner said, “I just wanted a new roof without the mess and noise of tearing off the old one.”
Metal roofs are also durable, energy-efficient, and look great. They reflect heat, last for decades, and resist fire. According to Classic Metal Roofing Systems, some metal roofs can last more than 50 years. And by skipping the tear-off, you keep tons of old shingles out of landfills.
Key Checks Before You Start
Before you install a metal roof over shingles, check a few things first.
- Roof condition: Only do this if your shingles are in fair shape and there is just one layer. Too many layers or curling shingles can cause issues.
- Structure: The roof deck must be strong enough to handle the extra weight.
- Ventilation: Poor airflow can trap moisture, leading to rot or mold.
- Local codes: Some areas do not allow metal roofs over shingles. Always confirm with your local building office.
A roofing expert at Clearcut Xteriors says, “Never install metal over shingles if the deck is soft or the structure is weak. You’re just hiding a problem.”
Benefits in Detail
Durability: A metal roof lasts much longer than asphalt shingles. Some last 50 years or more.
Energy savings: Metal reflects sunlight and keeps your home cooler in summer, lowering energy bills.
Low maintenance: Metal roofs need little care and resist mold, insects, and decay.
Looks: Today’s metal roofs come in many colors and finishes, fitting both modern and classic homes.
As Mr. Roof notes, metal roofing can boost curb appeal and resale value too.
The Risks and Downsides
It is not all perfect. Installing metal over shingles can hide damage to the decking underneath. Over time, trapped moisture may cause rot. You also risk voiding manufacturer warranties if you skip proper prep steps.
Bill Ragan Roofing warns that bad ventilation or uneven shingles can make the roof wavy and shorten its life. In some cases, you may have to remove the old shingles after all. So, while you might save money now, it could cost more later if problems appear.
The Process: Doing It Right
Here is a simple guide to doing it correctly:
- Inspect your roof. Fix any soft spots or damage.
- Check building codes and manufacturer instructions.
- Remove debris and loose shingles.
- Add underlayment or furring strips to create airflow. (Angi explains how this improves ventilation.)
- Install metal panels carefully, following spacing and fastener rules.
If your roof has two or more layers of shingles, or the decking is weak, remove everything first. A clean deck gives a longer-lasting result.
Conclusion
Yes, you can put a metal roof over shingles, but only when the roof is in good condition and properly prepared. It can save time, money, and waste. Still, it is not a shortcut. You need solid inspection, right ventilation, and skilled installation. When in doubt, ask a licensed roofer to inspect before you start.
With 25 years of experience in roof repair, replacement, and leak fixes, RRSATX is the expert to call. Contact us today for more details
