Full tear-off’s definitely the way to go if you want to avoid hidden surprises later. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen water damage or critter nests under old layers—especially after a big storm. Insurance companies like it because it lowers their risk, but I do wish disposal was less of a headache. Around here, recycling options are spotty at best. As for those “eco” shingles, I’m skeptical... the price jump isn’t always justified by the lifespan or actual environmental benefit. Maybe that'll change, but for now, I’d still rather fix it right once than stack up more problems down the road.
I’m with you on the tear-off—every time I’ve tried to save money by layering, it’s come back to bite me. The last duplex I managed had two layers, and when we finally stripped it, we found rot around the vents that would’ve just kept spreading. I do wish disposal was easier, though. Has anyone found a decent recycling option in a smaller city? Also, curious if anyone’s had luck with those “eco” shingles actually lasting as long as advertised... I keep seeing mixed reviews.
I get why tear-off is the go-to for a lot of folks, but I’ve actually seen layering work out okay in some cases—like on a garage roof where the structure was solid and there wasn’t any sign of leaks. Not ideal for every situation, but sometimes budgets just don’t stretch. On the eco shingles, I’ve only seen one install up close, and after five years they still looked good, but that’s not exactly a long-term test. Disposal’s a pain everywhere, honestly... our local dump charges extra for shingles and doesn’t recycle them.
Tear-off is definitely my usual recommendation, but I’ll admit, layering can be a decent call in some situations—especially for outbuildings or when you’re really pinched for cash. I’ve seen a few garages and sheds with two layers that have held up fine, as long as the first layer was still flat and there weren’t any soft spots. Main thing is, you don’t want to trap any old leaks or rot under there. Once you do, it’s like putting a band-aid on a broken leg—looks okay for a while, but you’re just asking for trouble down the line.
Disposal’s a whole other headache. Our landfill charges by the pound for shingles, and they’re heavy as bricks. I get why folks try to avoid a full tear-off just to save on dump fees. No one wants to pay extra just to get rid of old roofing. It’s not like you can repurpose the stuff for much, unless you’re into creative landscaping (I’ve seen someone use them for garden paths, but it looked rough).
On the eco shingles—jury’s still out for me. I’ve only had one client go that route, and it was a small job. Five years in, they’re holding up, but that’s not much of a test around here where we get hail every other summer. I’d be more convinced if I saw one last through a couple of those big spring storms without curling or cracking.
One thing I always tell folks: check your local code before you layer. Some places don’t allow more than two layers, and insurance companies can get picky if you ever need to file a claim. It’s not worth saving a few bucks now if it means headaches later.
If it’s your main house and you plan on sticking around, I’d lean tear-off every time. But for a detached garage or shed? Layering’s not the end of the world, as long as you know what you’re getting into. Just keep an eye out for soft decking and make sure your roof’s not already sagging under the weight. Seen too many folks skip that step and regret it after the next big windstorm...
You nailed it with the “band-aid on a broken leg” bit—layering over problems just kicks the can down the road. I’ve seen too many roofs where folks tried to save a buck and ended up with hidden rot or mold that cost way more to fix later. But yeah, for a shed or something you’re not too worried about, layering can make sense if you’re careful. Just gotta be honest about what you’re covering up.
Disposal fees are no joke. Around here, it’s not just the landfill—some towns tack on extra “environmental” charges, which feels like salt in the wound when you’re already hauling a ton of old shingles. I get why people look for shortcuts.
On the eco shingles, I’m with you—jury’s still out. I’ve seen a couple hold up, but our freeze-thaw cycles are brutal, and I’m not convinced they’ll last as long as advertised. Would love to be proven wrong, though.
You’re right about checking code and insurance. I’ve seen claims denied just because there were too many layers. Not worth the risk if it’s your main house. For outbuildings, though, sometimes “good enough” really is good enough.
