Can I install metal roofing over shingles?
Thinking About Installing Metal Over Shingles?
Here’s What You Need to Know
A question we often hear is:
“Can I install metal roofing over my existing shingles?”
The short answer? Yes—but only if it’s done the right way.
At L&L Roofing & Construction, we’ve handled this exact scenario on dozens of homes around Gainesville, Dawsonville, and Cumming, and we take a case-by-case approach to make sure your roof stays solid for the long haul.
Here’s what you need to know before making the call.
FAQ: Can I install metal roofing over shingles?
🧱 Yes, You Can Install Metal Over Shingles—But It’s Not Always Recommended
Georgia building codes allow one roof layer over existing shingles, but just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s always wise.
We’ll only install metal over shingles if:
The shingle roof has no underlying leaks or deck damage
The roof framing can handle the extra weight
The surface is even enough for proper fastening
We can still ventilate and flash correctly
🚫 When We Don’t Recommend It
At L&L Roofing, we value integrity over shortcuts. We’ll usually recommend a full tear-off if:
Your shingles are curling or lifting
The decking underneath is soft or water-damaged
You're planning to stay in your home long-term
You want to qualify for full manufacturer warranties
Bottom line: Covering problems doesn’t solve them. We won’t hide damage beneath a new roof—we’ll fix it right.
🛠️ How We Do It (When It’s Approved)
If your roof is a good fit for a metal-over-shingle install, we follow a strict process:
Inspect roof deck and framing from attic and surface
Install furring strips or purlins to level and ventilate
Lay high-temp synthetic underlayment for added moisture protection
Install standing seam or ribbed metal panels with precise fastening
Flash all transitions, chimneys, and valleys properly
We won’t skip steps. We won’t guess. And we never use "one-size-fits-all" solutions.
FAQs: Metal Over Shingles in Georgia
Q: Will I save money by keeping my shingles?
A: Possibly in the short term—but it could cost more down the road if hidden damage causes leaks or structural issues.
Q: Will I lose my roof warranty by installing over shingles?
A: Some manufacturers allow it with the right prep—but most full warranties require tear-off and inspection. We’ll clarify your options up front.
Q: Does it affect attic ventilation?
A: It can. That’s why we assess and improve ventilation as part of every re-roof project—especially with metal systems.
Q: Is it better to just remove the shingles?
A: In most cases, yes. A clean deck gives you a longer-lasting roof and better warranty coverage.
Our Honest Take: Tear It Off and Do It Right
While metal-over-shingle installs are possible, they’re not always best.
At L&L Roofing, we’ll inspect your roof, show you photos, and walk you through both options—with zero pressure and full transparency.
If we recommend a full tear-off, it’s not to upsell you. It’s because we’d want the same thing done on our own home.
📞 Not sure what your roof needs? Let’s take a look.
Call L&L Roofing & Construction at (770) 874-0372 or book your free roof consultation at www.llroofs.com
