roofer installing metal roof in background

Can You Install A Metal Roof Over Asphalt Shingles? Here Are A Few Crucial Things To Consider

You may have noticed the recent movement toward metal roofing for homes all over the country. What used to be an uncommon roofing material for residences has become a beautiful way to protect homes and families. But, some homeowners wonder whether it is possible to install metal roofing over the top of asphalt shingles. The short answer is, “It depends.” Here are a few factors to take into consideration as you seek to determine your next steps.

Your Local Building Codes

The first thing that comes into play will always be your local building codes. Any reputable contractor will adhere to what code says first and foremost.  In most areas, if you have only a single layer of shingles on your roof, you will be able to go over the top of them.  If you have two or more layers currently installed, you will likely have to have them removed by your roofer prior to your metal roof being installed

State Of The Roof Deck

You want to have a solid roof deck that is in good condition for your new metal roof no matter what you do.  Your roofer should do a thorough inspection of the roof deck checking for any soft or rotted areas that may need to be replaced during your installation.  This can easily be handled by an experienced roofer and it will give you a solid foundation for your new roof.  If you do have extensive rotting on your roof deck, it would not be advised to install metal over the shingles.  If it is only a small area or two, then that can be addressed without doing an entire tear-off.

Shingle Condition

The condition of your new roof will be dependent upon the state of the roof underneath. Think of it this way, the flatter the asphalt layer, the better the outcome of the new metal roof. In order for your metal roof to lay flat and be aesthetically pleasing, your roofer will need to ensure that the shingles beneath are not curling, warping or buckling. If they are not lying flat, the shingles will need to be removed in order to ensure a good outcome for the metal roof.

Get the Best Results when Installing a Metal Roof Over Shingles 

At Vertex Roofing, we are passionate about metal roofing. You can count on our certified roofers to get you the best result when you need to install a metal roof. Contact us today at Vertex Roofing, Inc, and we’ll walk you through the entire process, including shingle and roof deck inspection, financing, and choosing the best metal roof for your Northern Minnesota, Tucson, or Phoenix home. 

Scroll to Top