Get matched with top roofers in Highmore, SD

A roof replacement will usually include removal of your old roof, shingle replacement, and a new roof underlayment, but it may only include adding new shingles if you’re layering new shingles over the old shingles. If you have signs of roof leaks or your roofer finds water damage to the roof decking underneath your old roof, it can also include replacement of the OSB or plywood decking that lays over your rafters and supports the roofing material above.

Generally, roof flashing is installed under the shingles to create a watertight seal and prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage. However, the exact placement can depend on the type of flashing. For instance, with step flashing, the shingles and flashing overlap each other, meaning the flashing is technically both over and under the shingles. Flashing also typically goes beneath the house siding and is often not visible from the ground.

Many insurance policies will not cover a roof with two layers of shingles. An additional layer of shingles increases the risk of various kinds of damage, and insurers typically won’t pay claims on a roof with an overlay. Adding a layer of shingles may even jeopardize your insurance coverage entirely, so check your policy to ensure you stay within coverage guidelines. 

Some people prefer to use connectors consisting of galvanized metal to replace the birdsmouth cuts on the rafter board. Common names for these metal pieces include hurricane ties and variable-pitch connectors. Making birdsmouth cuts is more cost-effective than purchasing these connectors for each rafter. However, because making large birdsmouth cuts to accommodate extra-wide exterior walls can weaken the rafter, a connector may be the better option in some cases.