I Did Not Budget For A Roof But May Need One - Do or Don't?

I Did Not Budget For A Roof But May Need One - Do or Don't?

Real Estate Agent · Millcreek, UT · Member since 2015 · 64 posts · 22 votes

I bought a flip property needing light cosmetic work (new flooring, cabinets, counters, appliances, minimal drywall and electric work, smoke smell removing and paint. I budgeted to do some of the work myself (swap out incandescent for updated lighting, all demo and haul away and install the cabinets and counters). I bid the rest out with a contractor which came out to about $13k.  After we got in and were able to see the roof, it looks like it's about 15 years old and has a couple layers of shingles installed. It doesn't look like it's leaking anywhere and the professional inspector showed minimal signs of past leaking in the attic but it was dry and didn't look recent. The lowest bid we've received is for $4,600 for tear off and replace with 3-tab asphalt shingles, $3,275 for another layer on the existing roof, or $2,975 if I strip and haul off the existing layers and replace any damaged sheeting. 

1. If it looks old but seems to be functioning fine would you replace it, or layer over it, or neither?

2. If you would replace it would you layer over it or strip it yourself and resheet where needed and have them replace. 

Thanks for your help!

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  • Real Estate Agent · Naperville, IL · Member since 2014 · 196 posts · 130 votes
    6y

    @David Healey

    1.) If it is 15 years old and functioning fine, I would leave it.  If it is patched all over like an asphalt highway...replace it.

    DO NOT install another layer especially if it has multiple layers already.  Shingles are heavy and you might be putting too much stress on the roof

    2.)strip and resheet where needed and new layer of shingle

  • Real Estate Agent · Millcreek, UT · Member since 2015 · 64 posts · 22 votes
    6y

    @Eric X. Thanks for the response Eric, great advice.

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