I’ve managed a few properties where folks tried to save by layering, and it always seemed like a short-term win but a long-term headache. One place in particular, the attic started smelling musty after a couple of wet seasons—turns out moisture was getting trapped between the layers. If you’re weighing the options, here’s what I usually look at: check your local code (some places don’t even allow more than one layer), think about the age of the decking underneath, and factor in future repairs. It’s messier and pricier up front to tear off, but honestly, it’s saved me from bigger issues down the road.
I’m with you—layering seems like a shortcut that bites you later. We had two layers on our old place, and when we finally tore it all off, the decking was a mess. Plus, insurance gave us grief about coverage because of the extra weight. Upfront cost stings, but I’d rather deal with it once than patch up problems every rainy season.
