If your shingles are curling, cracking, or looking tired, you might be wondering: Can you put a new roof directly over the old shingles and save money? The short answer: Yes, in certain instances, but only under the right conditions. It can save time and upfront costs, but if misused, it could shorten your roof’s lifespan and cause expensive issues down the road.
At Hoel Roofing, while we don’t do roof overlays, we have seen roofs in various states in our decade of operation. We have also helped numerous homeowners restore their confidence in their roofs to protect their homes. We have observed multiple instances in which a roof overlay may work, and others in which it might cause more damage.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what reroofing really means, when it’s allowed, what it costs in 2025, and how to know if your home is a good candidate.
A roof overlay, also known as reroofing, is the process of installing a new layer of shingles directly over your existing roof. Instead of removing old roofing materials, roofers inspect for minor damage and repair it, then layer new shingles on top. This saves time, reduces disposal costs, and limits the disruption to your home.
However, a roof overlay is not the same as a complete roof replacement. Overlaying adds weight to the structure, while any hidden issues, such as rot or trapped moisture, remain beneath.
Here’s how the two main roofing methods compare against each other:
| Factor | Roof Overlay (Reroof) | Full Tear-Off (Replacement) |
| Process | Adds new shingles over the old layer | Removes all old material before new installation |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Time | Faster (1 day) | Longer (1–2 days) |
| Durability | 10–15 years typical | 20–30 years typical |
| Weight | Adds significant weight | No added stress on the structure |
| Warranty | May be voided by manufacturers | Full warranty eligible |
| Inspection Access | Old damage stays hidden | Decking is fully visible for repair |
Before deciding to roof over, you’ll need to consider building codes, roof structure, and deck condition.
The 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), which Indiana and many other states adopt as part of their building standards, specifically addresses the number of roofing layers allowed. Section R908.3.1.1 states that a roof recover (adding a new layer over an existing one) is not permitted when:
In simpler terms, most building codes, including Indiana’s, allow only one additional layer of shingles. That means you can have up to two layers total, but only if the existing roof is in good condition and not made of restricted materials like slate or tile.
You should avoid reroofing if:
Indiana’s four-season climate plays a big role in whether reroofing is a smart move. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow, and spring rain can push moisture beneath the top layer of shingles, especially if the existing roof has any small gaps or lifted edges.
Cold weather risks: Trapped moisture can freeze, expand, and cause both layers to separate.
Summer heat: Increases attic temperatures, which can bake the lower layer and shorten shingle life.
Homeowners in Indiana or similar climates should always have attic ventilation checked and underlayment upgraded when reroofing. These small steps help minimize premature failure caused by local weather conditions.
If you’re not sure, schedule a professional roof inspection. A trained roofer can tell in minutes whether your roof can safely support an overlay.
Here’s a quick look at how they compare:
| Can be reroofed if: | Cannot be re-roofed if: |
| Only one existing shingle layer | Two or more layers already installed |
| No active leaks | Leaks or soft spots in the attic |
| Decking feels solid | Rotting or sagging roof deck |
| Shingles lie flat and intact | Curled, cracked, or missing shingles |
| Proper attic ventilation | Poor ventilation or condensation issues |
Here’s what you can expect to pay for an average 2,000 sq. ft. home in Indiana:
| Roof Type | Avg. Cost per Sq. Ft. | Total (2,000 sq. ft.) | Lifespan |
| Overlay (Reroof) | $4.50 – $6.50 | $9,000 – $13,000 | 10 – 15 years |
| Full Tear-Off | $7.00 – $10.50 | $14,000 – $21,000 | 20 – 30 years |
A roof overlay can make sense in specific cases, especially for homeowners planning to move within a few years.
The savings on reroofing often come with trade-offs:
Over time, many homeowners find that the cheaper option upfront becomes more expensive in the long run.
If your roofer confirms your home is a good candidate for a reroof, there are still ways to maximize the roof’s life and performance:
A reroof is only as good as its preparation; a few upgrades now can add years to your roof’s life.
Can you put a metal roof over shingles?
Yes, in many cases, you can install a metal roof directly over asphalt shingles. However, the existing roof must be inspected first to ensure the decking is sound and free of rot. Contractors often add furring strips or a solid underlayment between the two layers to create ventilation space and prevent trapped moisture, which helps extend the roof’s lifespan.
Can you roof over architectural shingles?
It’s possible, but not always ideal. Architectural shingles have a thicker, dimensional profile that can create an uneven surface for new shingles. This can make the top layer harder to seal properly and may affect both appearance and performance. If your shingles are curled, brittle, or have soft spots underneath, a complete tear-off is the safer option.
Does roofing over old shingles void the warranty?
It can. Always check your manufacturer’s installation requirements to know if it can void your particular warranty.
How many layers of shingles are allowed in Indiana?
In Indiana, local code follows the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) Section R908.3.1.1, which limits roofs to no more than two total layers. That means you can have one existing layer and one additional overlay; anything beyond that requires a complete tear-off.
Can you get a new roof warranty after a reroof?
Sometimes. Manufacturer warranties typically don’t apply to re-roof installations unless the new system meets their specifications and is installed by a certified contractor. However, your roofer may still offer a limited labor warranty covering workmanship, even if the material warranty isn’t renewed..
Reroofing is worth it if:
Reroofing is not worth it if:
At Hoel Roofing, we do not offer overlay as a service as we consider it to be a risky decision. It also voids the home’s warranty. We always advise homeowners to always tear off. We recommend that before deciding, get quotes for both overlay and tear-off options, so you can compare total cost, warranty, and longevity side by side. To make sure you’re comparing rightly, check out our article on What Should Be Included in a Roof Replacement Quote?
At Hoel Roofing, we provide free detailed inspections and quotes, no commitment, just answers. Schedule an inspection today, and let’s help you make the right choice for your home.
Toyosi Ogunsola is the Content Manager at Hoel Roofing & Remodeling in Rushville, IN, where she oversees the creation of educational, trustworthy content about roofing, remodeling, and home improvement. With a master’s degree in Emerging Media Design and Development and a background spanning content strategy, UX research, and digital marketing, Toyosi combines data-driven insights with clear, engaging writing to help homeowners make informed decisions. Passionate about translating complex roofing topics into helpful resources, she works closely with Hoel’s team of roofing experts to ensure every piece of content is accurate, practical, and user-focused.
