what is a tear off roof

by | Apr 11, 2025 | Blog

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What Is a Tear Off Roof? Everything Northeast Ohio Homeowners Should Know

When it’s time for a new roof, many homeowners across Northeast Ohio hear the term “tear off roof” but aren’t quite sure what it means. At S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC, we often explain this concept to customers during free roof inspections throughout Youngstown, Cleveland, Euclid, Medina, Willoughby, and surrounding areas. Understanding a tear-off roof and how it compares to reroofing or overlay options can help you make smarter, long-lasting decisions for your home.

So, let’s dive into what a tear-off roof is, when it’s necessary, what the process looks like, and how much it typically costs. If you’re considering replacing your roof, this guide is packed with useful information that can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.


🏠 What Is a Tear Off Roof?

A tear off roof refers to the complete removal of your home’s existing roofing materials — including old shingles, underlayment, and sometimes flashing — down to the roof deck. After the removal, your roofing contractor installs a brand-new roofing system on top of the exposed deck.

This differs from reroofing, which involves adding a second layer of shingles on top of the old ones without removing them. While reroofing can be quicker and cheaper, it often doesn’t address underlying problems and may void warranties or lead to premature failure.


🔍 Why Choose a Tear Off Roof?

While a full tear off might sound more involved (and it is), the benefits far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. Here’s why most professionals — including us at S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC — recommend tear-off roofing:

1. Inspect & Repair Roof Decking

A tear off allows us to examine the roof decking underneath the shingles for rot, water damage, or soft spots. Reroofing won’t expose these problems, which can lead to expensive repairs later.

2. Improved Roof Lifespan

By starting fresh with a tear off, your new roof will last longer because it isn’t burdened by old materials or trapped moisture. In Northeast Ohio’s freeze-thaw climate, this is especially important.

3. Better Insulation & Ventilation

A full tear off allows for the addition of better ventilation systems and insulation upgrades, which can reduce heating and cooling costs.

4. Warranty Protection

Most roofing manufacturers, like Owens Corning, offer full warranties only when a tear off is completed first. That’s why S&K, as an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, always ensures proper installation and paperwork.


🛠️ Tear Off Roof vs Reroofing: Key Differences

FeatureTear Off RoofReroofing (Overlay)
Removal of old shingles✅ Yes❌ No
Can inspect deck✅ Yes❌ No
Cost💰 Higher upfront cost💵 Lower initial cost
Lifespan⏳ Longer⏱️ Shorter
Eligibility for warranty✅ Yes🚫 Sometimes voids warranty
Best forLong-term investmentShort-term cosmetic fix

🔨 What Happens During a Tear Off Roof Project?

Here’s what you can expect when you schedule a tear-off roof replacement with S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC:

Step 1: Free Roof Inspection

We inspect your entire roof, check for leaks, soft decking, and signs of wear. We’ll discuss materials, timeline, and budget.

Step 2: Permits & Scheduling

We handle any required permits for your local municipality — from Youngstown to Medina — and schedule the job when the weather’s ideal.

Step 3: Old Roof Removal

Our crew removes all shingles, nails, and underlayment, exposing the bare roof deck. This allows us to identify and replace any rotted or damaged wood.

Step 4: Decking Repair

If decking issues are found, we replace those sections to ensure a solid foundation for the new roof.

Step 5: Install Underlayment & Flashing

A waterproof underlayment (like Ice & Water Shield) and brand-new flashing is installed to protect vulnerable roof areas.

Step 6: New Shingle Installation

We install Owens Corning architectural shingles or the product of your choice, aligned perfectly for weather protection and aesthetic appeal.

Step 7: Cleanup & Final Inspection

We clean up every nail, shingle, and scrap before doing a final walkthrough with you. Your satisfaction is our priority.

⏱️ Most tear off roofing projects are completed in 1–2 days.


💸 How Much Does a Tear Off Roof Cost in Northeast Ohio?

Tear off roof costs vary depending on:

  • Roof size and pitch
  • Shingle type
  • Structural repairs
  • Accessibility
  • Labor and material costs

Estimated Tear Off Roof Costs:

Roof Size (sq. ft.)Average Cost Range
1,500$8,000 – $12,000
2,000$10,000 – $15,000
2,500$12,000 – $18,000

✅ At S&K, we offer financing options to help spread out the cost. Many customers qualify for $0 down and affordable monthly payments.


📍 Tear Off Roofs in Northeast Ohio: Local Considerations

Weather

The harsh winters and humid summers in Northeast Ohio make tear off roofing the better option. Moisture under old shingles can cause serious mold and deck rot if not removed.

Building Codes

Some cities, like Cleveland, Euclid, and Willoughby, may not allow more than one roofing layer. A tear off is often legally required.

Resale Value

If you’re selling your home, a new tear-off roof adds significant value — buyers trust it more than a second-layer roof.


🧱 Real Project Example: Roof Tear Off in Euclid, OH

We recently completed a tear off and new roof install in Euclid using Owens Corning Duration Shingles. The existing roof had two layers and multiple soft decking areas.

Our crew tore off everything, replaced decking as needed, and installed new flashing and ventilation. The project was completed in just 1 day, and the homeowner now has a 30+ year roof warranty and peace of mind.


🧠 Frequently Asked Questions About Tear Off Roofs

Can I reroof instead of doing a tear off?

Possibly — but only if you have one layer of shingles and your decking is in good shape. We’ll help you determine if reroofing is an option.

How long does a tear off roof last?

With proper installation, a tear off roof can last 20–50 years, depending on materials used and maintenance.

Will my homeowners insurance cover a tear off roof?

If damage is from a covered event (like wind or hail), insurance may cover the full or partial cost. We help homeowners navigate roof claim denials and approvals.

Do I have to leave my home during the project?

Not at all! Most of our customers stay home during the tear off. We keep the process clean and minimally disruptive.


🧰 Why Choose S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC?

We’re not just roofers — we’re your partners in protecting your home.

✅ Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
✅ Fully insured & locally owned
✅ 1-day tear offs & installations
✅ Financing options available
✅ Expert in insurance claims
✅ Serving Youngstown, Cleveland, Medina, and all Northeast Ohio


📞 Get a Free Tear Off Roof Estimate Today!

Ready to replace your old roof the right way? Don’t settle for quick fixes that cause bigger problems later.

Let S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC show you the difference a tear-off roof can make for your home’s longevity, safety, and value.


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