Here we answer some of your MOST asked questions about your roof and roofing contractors!

Roofing FAQ

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Why You Can’t Install a New Roof Over Old Shingles in Georgia

When your roof starts showing its age, it’s tempting to look for ways to save time and money. One question that often comes up is: “Can’t I just put new shingles right over the old ones?” It sounds simple enough — less labor, less mess, and a faster job. But if you live in Georgia, the answer is clear: no, you can’t legally install a new roof over existing shingles.

Georgia Building Code Says “Tear It Off First”

According to Georgia’s state building code, roofing contractors are required to remove old roofing materials before installing a new system. That means all the existing shingles, underlayment, and damaged decking have to come off before the new materials go on.

This rule exists for good reason. Stacking new shingles on top of old ones may seem harmless, but it hides potential problems that can lead to major damage later. The code is designed to protect homeowners — ensuring that your new roof is installed on a solid, inspected foundation rather than covering up existing issues.

Why Layering Shingles is a Bad Idea

Even outside of Georgia, most professional roofers strongly discourage installing shingles over an existing roof. Here’s why:

1. Hidden Damage – Old shingles can cover up leaks, rot, or soft spots in the decking. Without tearing off the roof, there’s no way to properly inspect what’s underneath.

2. Excess Weight – Asphalt shingles are heavy. Doubling up puts unnecessary strain on your home’s structure and can cause sagging or premature failure.

3. Poor Adhesion – New shingles don’t seal as well when installed over old ones. This makes them more vulnerable to wind damage — a big concern during Georgia’s storm seasons.

4. Shorter Lifespan – Layered roofs trap heat and moisture, which can drastically shorten the life of your new shingles.

5. Voided Warranties – Most manufacturers will not honor a warranty if their product is installed over an existing roof layer.

In other words, you might save a little money now, but you’ll likely spend much more down the road on repairs or early replacement.

Doing It the Right Way

When you hire a reputable Georgia roofing contractor, they’ll start by completely removing your old roofing system. This allows them to check for rotten decking, water damage, or ventilation issues — and fix them before installing your new roof.

A full tear-off ensures your new roof lasts as long as possible, performs correctly, and complies with Georgia building code. It also means your warranty stays valid and your home stays protected.

The Bottom Line

If someone offers to “just go over” your existing shingles, it’s a red flag. Not only is it against Georgia code, but it’s also cutting corners in a way that could cost you far more later. The best roofing jobs are built on a clean foundation — and that starts with removing the old roof first.

At Barrelle Roofing, we follow Georgia building code to the letter and take the time to do the job right. Because your home deserves more than a quick fix — it deserves a roof that’s built to last.