Reroofing vs. Roof Replacement: What's the Difference?

Are reroofing and roof replacement the same? Not exactly. There are some key differences between re-roofing and roof replacement. Understanding these differences is important because it can help you decide when to choose one over the other. We at JC Roofing Industry can help answer some of the most common questions about re-roofing and roof replacement, as well as provide cost factors to consider for each option.

What is Re-roofing?

In simple terms, re-roofing involves laying a new layer of roofing material on top of an existing roof. However, it can only be done once and only if there's one existing layer. Re-roofing is a quicker and cheaper alternative to roof replacement and doesn't require as many steps.

What is Roof Replacement?

Roof replacement involves tearing off everything on the roof down to the structure and installing a new roof. It can be done regardless of the number of existing layers on the roof. However, it's a time-consuming process and can be more expensive because of the amount of work involved.

Signs of Re-roofing

Some of the signs that your home or building may need re-roofing include the roof reaching the end of its lifespan, minor leaks, and only a part of the roof requiring treatment.

Signs of Roof Replacement

Signs that a roof needs replacement include age (15-20 years), damage or leakage, missing or degraded flashing, and discolored walls or ceilings.

Cost Factors for Re-roofing

The cost of re-roofing depends on various factors such as labor, slope, materials, accessibility, location, task complexity, and equipment involved.

Cost Factors for Roof Replacement

The cost of roof replacement depends on factors such as roof size and slope, roofing materials, existing roof condition, location, contractor fees, permits, vent installation, warranties, and material disposal fees.

In summary, re-roofing and roof replacement are two different options for addressing roofing needs. Re-roofing is a more cost-effective option for roofs in good condition with only one layer of shingles, while roof replacement is more appropriate for severely damaged roofs.