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Roof Replacement Or Re-Roof: What’s The Difference

Writer's picture: Velazquez RoofingVelazquez Roofing

Updated: Oct 28, 2024

The well-being of your roof plays a crucial role in the overall integrity and value of your home. Severe storms, weather conditions, and aging will naturally cause wear and tear and you will find yourself needing a roof replacement or re-roof. Knowing the difference and when to consider the investment is very important and will end up saving you lots of money in the long run.


Roof replacement near Roseland, IL

What Is Re-Roofing

Sometimes referred to as an overlay, re-roofing is a process in which a roofer installs a new layer of material over an existing roof structure. This is a much more cost-effective way to improve the appearance of your roof and provide protection. Depending on the amount of damage you may have on your roof, a replacement may be the way to go to save you money.


The Pros:

  • Cost Effective: Re-Roofing is a much cheaper process since it uses less labor and materials

  • Time Efficient: The time needed to complete this method is much quicker to enhance the look of your roof without an entire replacement.


The Cons:

  • Short-term Solution: Overlays are only meant to add layers and cover up damage, therefore this is only a temporary solution.

  • Does Not Solve Severe Damage: If your roof structure is extremely damaged and has serious water leaks, an overlay will not fix the underlying issues.

  • Weight: Adding layers of material to your roof will increase the overall weight, which may be damaging to the structural integrity over time.


What Is A Roof Replacement

When your roof has severe damage, covering up damaged materials is no longer an option. With a roof replacement, roofers will rip away all damaged shingles and will inspect and repair all the underlying issues in the structure of your roof. Roof replacements are a long term solution and if your roof is damaged enough, this will end up saving you a lot of money by preventing further costly damages.


The Pros:

  • Long-term Solution: When the structure of your roof has been severely damaged, a roof replacement is the only option. This process will repair the underlying damages and have your roof lasting for years to come.

  • Increase The Value Of Your Home: A new roof can be worth 80% more than the original cost when selling your home. Many realtors will use a roof replacement as a way to entice a quicker sale on a home.


The Cons:

  • Expensive: Although a roof replacement can save you money in the long run and even increase the overall value of your home, it is no secret that a new roof is a very costly investment.

  • Longer Process: Although the process of a roof replacement is much longer than a re-roof, there are more steps involved with the removal of the old damaged roof.


What To Consider When Deciding Between A Re-Roof Or Replacement

The main thing to pay attention to is the condition of your roof. Covering up damage doesn’t solve the initial issue. If you have severe damage to the structure, water leaks, or many missing and damaged shingles, a roof replacement is highly recommended. On the other hand, if the damage is minimal, a re-roof can be a great cost effective way to prolong the life and aesthetic of an older roof. An expert roofing contractor will be able to identify and determine the condition of your roof and the best solution to save you money.



Whether you are looking to make the investment in a roof replacement, or cover up some minor damages with an overlay or re-roof, Velazquez Roofing has a team of experienced roofers that can handle it all. We handle all Roofing needs throughout Roseland, Beverly, Oak Lawn, Evergreen Park, and other surrounding Chicago and South Suburb areas.


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