Q: Is it better to tear off the old roof or can I go over it with a new
system?
A: It is always better to tear off your existing system and install a new
underlayment system. The reason is so that you can inspect the roofs wood
deck and replace any bad wood areas. This will insure that you do not put a
new roof system over a bad wood deck and have to replace it again
prematurely.
Q: Can I save money by tearing the roof off my self?
A: Yes, you can save money if you have the time and energy to put into
the removal of your old system. The considerations are going to be, of
course your time, and the liability of having others help you and exposing
your home owners insurance to a potential claim. Also, the real probability
that these people are not professionals that are aware of the dangers of
being up on a roof and the lack of experience raises the risk of someone
getting hurt.
Q: Do I need ventilation?
A: Yes your roof needs to be ventilated for a number of reasons.
Including exhausting the excessive heating that causes the roof system to
fail before it has reached its full potential. Another reason to ventilate
is to remove harmful moisture from your attic that comes from using showers
and other moisture sources in your normal day to day living.