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How Many Layers Of Roof Shingles Are Allowed In Ohio?
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How Many Layers Of Roof Shingles Are Allowed In Ohio?

Posted on June 1, 2023

Estimated Reading Time : 5 Min.

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Layers Of Roof Shingles Are Allowed In Ohio

Are you considering adding layers of shingles to your existing roof in Ohio? Before you proceed, you need to know how many layers of roof shingles are allowed on Ohio homes, and what the limitations are. Many homeowners in Ohio choose re-roofing before considering the weather impacts on roofs and the consequences of adding more weight to the roof deck. 

This blog post presents the local building codes associated with adding additional layers of shingles and the potential repercussions. Read on to make an informed decision about your roof that will benefit you in the years to come.

Building Codes In Ohio For Adding Shingle Layers

When considering re-roofing or adding shingle layers to an existing one, homeowners in Ohio should be aware of the state’s building codes. The building codes and regulations dictate the number of layers of roofing you can install. According to the Ohio Building Code, homeowners cannot have more than two layers of any type of existing roof covering, and this is true for shingles. However, the state government strictly prohibits re-roofing over existing wood shakes, clay, slate, and concrete roofs. 

This is to ensure that the roof can support the added weight and meets fire safety requirements. It’s important to note that the removal of old roofing materials may be necessary to comply with this code. Additionally, homeowners in areas that require Class A, B, or C roofing should be aware that the roofing material they choose should be tested for the building codes in Ohio. In this way, homeowners can ensure that their new roof not only meets local building codes but also provides the necessary protection and durability for their homes. 

Layers of shingle roof
layers of shingle roof

Reasons For Limiting Roof Shingle Layers

For the following reasons, roofers avoid re-roofing and don’t recommend it. Here are some setbacks of installing additional layers of shingles. 

1. Structural Considerations

Excessive layers of shingles can put unnecessary strain on the roof’s structure. Since roofs are designed to support a specific weight, adding too many layers of shingles can exceed the design limits. Adding weight can even compromise the structural integrity of the roof, leading to sagging and even collapse.

2. Insulation and Ventilation Problems

Multiple layers of shingles can reduce the roof’s ability to exhaust hot air, leading to inadequate ventilation. This can result in increased heat in the attic during summer and poor insulation during winter, leading to higher energy bills.

3. Difficulty in Locating Leaks 

Having multiple layers of shingles can make it harder to pinpoint the source of a leak. The water can travel in various directions between the layers before it seeps into the interior of the house, making it a challenging task to locate and repair the leak effectively.

4. Decreased Lifespan of Shingles 

The extra heat trapped by multiple shingle layers can cause the shingles on the top layer to age and wear out faster, reducing the lifespan of the roof overall.

5. Ineffective Inspection and Maintenance

Multiple layers of shingles make it difficult to assess the condition of the underlayers and the decking below. As a result, damages or issues with the underlayers can go unnoticed, leading to potential structural issues that might require costly repairs in the future.

Impact on Insurance Coverage And Claims

If you have too many shingle layers on your roof, it can affect your insurance coverage and claims. Insurers may see it as a risk because it increases the chance of structural problems, leaks, and water damage. Therefore, filing a claim for insurance coverage to get coverage for things like storm damage can be more challenging for homeowners. In fact, the insurance company may deny you coverage. 

Reasons Homeowners Choose Re-Roofing

Though we just discussed some of the reasons why re-roofing is a bad idea, homeowners may choose to do so for various reasons. Here are some of them: 

1. Cost Savings

Adding another layer of shingles over the existing ones can be seen as a cost-effective alternative to getting a replacement. It eliminates the need for a complete roof tear-off, which can be expensive in terms of labor and disposal fees.

2. Time Efficiency 

Installing an additional layer of shingles is generally quicker than a complete roof replacement. This appeals to homeowners who want to address roofing issues or improve the appearance of their homes in a shorter period.

3. A Temporary Solution

In some cases, homeowners may opt for multiple shingle layers as a temporary solution to address roof issues. This could be due to financial constraints or other circumstances that prevent them from investing in a full roof replacement at the time. However, it’s important to note that this is not a recommended long-term strategy and can lead to further complications if not addressed properly.

4. Lack of Awareness

Some homeowners may not be aware of the limitations or regulations regarding the number of shingle layers allowed. They may assume that adding more layers is standard practice, or may not fully understand the potential risks and consequences.

Alternative Options To Re-Roofing

If you are concerned about the damage on your roof and are looking for reliable roofing options, you should consider the following alternative roofing methods to re-roofing. 

Roof Repair

Roof repair
Roof Repair

If the roof has minor issues or localized damage, you can consider a targeted repair approach. This involves identifying and fixing specific problem areas, such as replacing damaged shingles, repairing leaks, or addressing flashing issues. Roof repairs can help extend the lifespan of your existing roof and address immediate concerns.

Roof Coatings

Roof coatings
Roof Coatings

Roof coatings, also known as roof sealants, are liquid or spray-applied products that create a protective layer over the existing roof. These coatings can help extend the roof’s lifespan, improve energy efficiency, and provide some degree of waterproofing. However, it’s important to note that roof coatings are not suitable for all types of roofs and may require regular maintenance and reapplication. 

Complete Roof Replacement

Complete roof replacement
Complete Roof Replacement

If the existing roof has multiple layers or significant damage, you can look for a complete roof replacement. This involves removing all the old roofing materials down to the roof deck and installing a new roof. It allows for a fresh start and ensures that the roof is built to meet current building codes and standards. Complete roof replacement also allows you to choose other roofing materials besides traditional asphalt shingles. 

Do You Want to Repair or Replace Your Shingle Roof In Ohio?

Should you spot signs of damage on your roof and wish to ensure its longevity, re-roofing, which is restricted by building codes in Ohio, may not be your best option. Having understood the adverse effects of layering shingles on an existing roof, it is crucial to contemplate other alternatives. For minor damage, consider conducting targeted roof repairs. However, if the damage is extensive or your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, a complete roof replacement might be the most sensible course of action.

If you live in Dayton, Ohio, or the surrounding area, call All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters today at (937) 902-2839 for your roof replacement or repair. 

Layers Of Roof Shingles Are Allowed In Ohio
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