Roofing Wisdom: Shingle Layers in Texas – Expert Insights Revealed!

How many layers of roofing shingles for your property will be allowed in Texas? 

According to the International Residential Code, you can have a maximum of two layers of roofing on your property. 

Also, each city has its building code.

On infrequent and special occasions, more than two layers will be allowed. 

You would be surprised how many properties don’t follow this guideline. 

It might be due to a lack of knowledge. 

Or, the contractor they hired skipped corners. 

Having multiple layers does more harm than good. 

At American Dream Roofing, we would never allow that for various reasons. 

In content assets, we explain in-depth why multiple roofing layers are never an option for your property. 

How to Detect Multiple Layers of Roofing Shingles

Before starting a roofing project, it is crucial to conduct an inspection. 

Through the inspection, you can figure out many underlying roof issues. 

The problem is sometimes contractors look at the roof’s visible edges. 

And that brings them to the conclusion: 

“There is only maybe one or two or maybe three layers of roofing.”

But there have been a lot of cases in our work where when we checked underneath, we figured out multiple layers!

If we hadn’t checked that earlier and instead installed the shingles on the hidden existing ones, that roof wouldn’t have stood long enough for the property. 

The owner would have to replace them in a few years. 

That is why, as a roofer, it is so crucial to conduct a thorough inspection. 

Removing multiple layers of shingles can sometimes be a nightmare for our work. 

It also does add cost to the project. 

The worst scenario is figuring out issues like multiple layers once we start our work and informing the property owner later that the project will be costlier. 

We would like to have a different conversation. 

The project may not be profitable. 

Therefore, 

There are two ways to detect multiple layers of roofing:-

• Lift the bottom edge and check (what pretty much everyone does)
• Lift under the edge metal and check the layers (only the pros do that).

At the same time, working with a reliable and reputable contractor or company is always the best idea.

It will save you a lot of headaches and money in the long run.   

Why Multiple Layers Are Bad Choice

Take our advice: if anyone says to re-roof your existing shingles, just run away from them!

Why? 

First, it is cheaper than replacing an entire roof as a property owner. 

Secondly, there is less work as a contractor since all you have to do is install new shingles on the existing one. 

From our experience, that is a wrong choice. 

We prefer removing the previous shingles, as well as the deck. And it is built upon new foundations. 

It assures us that our clients will have a roofing system that will last for a few decades. 

And here is why: 

Cost 

As stated earlier, re-roofing at the beginning might sound like a cheaper and more affordable option. 

But in the long run, you are going to replace them anyway. Why is that? 

First, the second or third layer never stays flat or firm like the original. 

The first layer has already been through wear and tear, creating an uneven surface. 

If you install a second or third layer on the top of the existing shingles, from an appearance point of view, it won’t look good. 

Since the second or third surfaces are not smooth, they are more prone to strong winds, temp sun, and hail damage, which we often face in Texas. 

Your next roof replacement session will be on the horizon. 

At the same time, your old shingles degrade under the new ones. 

Also, from an insurance view, they don’t have the expense for multiple layers. 

To learn more about roof replacement cost, you can read this.

Increased Load 

Not all properties have the structural integrity to hold multiple layer’s weight.

You keep adding more and more layers, thinking it might improve your roof. 

No, it can lead to sagging. 

And, in the worst-case scenario, your roof might also collapse for being unable to hold the weight. 

Sometimes, your home’s first layer of shingles has ridges and gaps that prevent a secure layover and add extra weight your home was not designed to carry.

With that, not only does the second layer of shingles increase vulnerability to leaks and damage, but it also doubles the weight of your roof.

Unnoticed Damage

With each layer you add, you hide a lot of existing issues and damages of the previous remaining shingles. 

If a leak develops, it will be challenging to determine where it is coming from. 

At the same time, if your roofing deck is in an unsuitable condition, but you decided to re-roof on the top of it. 

You just missed out on an opportunity to replace it and change it. 

The deck is the foundation from where the roof begins. 

If the foundation is shaky, your roof will have difficulty surviving. 

However, the shingles are brand new during the re-roofing process. 

At the same time, if you are considering installing a skylight on your multiple roofing layers, there is a leakage danger. In most cases, you won’t be able to for this reason. 

Single Layer is the Best Option

Firstly, it offers superior durability compared to traditional multi-layer systems. 

With a single layer, the risk of water penetration and leaks is significantly reduced since there are fewer seams and joints where problems can occur. 

It reduces maintenance issues over time, saving property owners time and money.

Moreover, single-layer roofing provides excellent energy efficiency. 

It is a much more cost-effective option than multi-layer. 

Its design allows for better insulation, which helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year while reducing heating and cooling costs. 

Additionally, these roofs often come with reflective coatings that help minimize heat absorption from the sun, further enhancing their energy-saving capabilities.

Furthermore, single-layer roofing reduces environmental impact by minimizing waste during installation or replacement processes. 

The simplicity of these systems allows for easier recycling when they reach their end of life. 

Choosing this type of roof contributes to a more sustainable future without compromising quality or performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Install Different Types of Roofing Materials for Each Layer in Texas?

Mixing different roofing materials for each layer is typically not recommended and may not meet local building codes. 

It’s recommended to consult with an experienced roofer to guarantee appropriate material selection and installation.

Do I Need a Permit to Add a New Layer of Roofing Shingles in Texas?

Before starting your roofing project, it is crucial to check with your local building department to determine if a permit is required.  

Permit requirements may vary by location and project scope.

How can I Ensure My Roofing Project in Texas Complies with Local Regulations and Best Practices?

For compliance, hire a Texas roofing contractor with experience in knowledge of building codes. 

They’ll help with permits and ensure the project follows regulations and best practices.

Therefore, Be Cautious

A roofing project’s execution requires experience and knowledge. 

It would be best if you only worked with reputable and honest contractors who are known for their craft.

And at American Dream Roofing, it is what we do. 

We have served over a thousand more property owners with quality roofing solutions. 

Feel free to book an inspection without any hidden charge.