Re-Roofing

House Doctor | Gary Dymski

September 6, 2001

Q. My roof must be reshingled. It now has two layers of fiberglass shingles over tongue-and-groove boards. To do the job without scrimping, what materials should be used? I'm 60 and don't ever want to reroof again.

-Joseph Lechleiter, Smithtown

A. My first bit of advice is to tear off those two previous layers. My rule is: One roof, one layer. So you're already in hot water with me, Joe.

A roof needs to breathe - to release humidity and heat that's trapped in the attic and in the wood sheathing - and I just don't think it can breathe properly with more than one layer of shingles. No matter what you hear when collecting estimates, tear off the two top layers.

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The next bit of advice is to do some research through the National Roofers Contractors Association Web site (www.nrca .net). It's an excellent source for everything from product information to a list of local contractors.

As for materials, the price difference in shingles in minimal, so I'd opt for the better rated ones. However, most manufacturers and larger installers today are offering "roofing systems," which feature a combination of related products - underlayment, shingles, ridge vents and drip guards, for example - designed to keep your house dry for the longest time.

Keep in mind that your roof is a crucial system, and it includes, among other things, gutters and downspouts and roof vents. If you want it to weather the elements, rely on quality products installed by an experienced roofing contractor. Translation: Don't let price alone determine your contractor.