Is it possible to install a wood roof over an asphalt roof?

Answer: No, not usually
Explanation: In most cases, it is not recommended to install a wood roof directly over an existing asphalt roof. Here's why: Wood roofs require proper ventilation and spacing, which asphalt shingles don’t provide. Without a solid wood decking and the right ventilation underneath, moisture can get trapped, leading to mold, rot, and premature failure. Building codes and manufacturer warranties often prohibit installing wood shakes or shingles over old roofing materials because it compromises safety, durability, and performance. Weight considerations are critical. Wood roofing materials, especially cedar shakes, are heavier than asphalt shingles. Stacking them can exceed your roof structure’s load capacity, potentially causing structural damage. At Honest Abe Roofing Orlando, we always start with a full roof evaluation. If you're considering a wood or synthetic shake roof, we recommend a complete tear-off of your old asphalt roof to ensure proper installation, performance, and warranty compliance. This approach protects your investment and ensures your new roof performs as intended for decades.

Answer: Yes, if the asphalt roof is in decent condition
Explanation: If you are looking for a way to upgrade your roof, you might be wondering if you can install a wood roof over an asphalt roof. The answer is yes, but there are some conditions and limitations to consider. A wood roof, also known as a cedar roof, is a type of roofing material that consists of wood shingles or shakes. It offers a natural and rustic look, as well as durability and resistance to weather and insects. However, a wood roof requires more maintenance and care than an asphalt roof, which is made of asphalt shingles that are cheaper and easier to install. One of the main challenges of installing a wood roof over an asphalt roof is ventilation. You need to ensure that there is enough air circulation between the two layers of roofing to prevent moisture buildup, mold growth, and rotting. You can achieve this by using a special underlayment or a system of battens that create a gap between the asphalt and wood shingles. Another factor to consider is the weight of the wood roof. You can only install one layer of wood shingles over one layer of asphalt shingles, as adding more layers would exceed the load capacity of your roof structure and cause sagging or collapse. You also need to check the local building codes and warranty requirements before installing a new roof over an existing one. The best way to determine if a wood roof over an asphalt roof is possible and suitable for your home is to consult a professional roofer. A roofer can inspect your roof, advise you on the best option, and provide you with a free estimate. Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection and get started on your roof project.

Answer: No, not usually
Explanation: We never roof over an existing roofing system; always we go down to the decking

Answer: No, not usually
Explanation: in many areas of the country a wood shingle roof is installed over decked and properly felted substructure then the shingles can go on in the south they dont use decking but use a 1 by 4 grid so as to let the shingles breath but when installing a hand split shake roof you have to use felt for every row of shingle so its like tow roofs in one but in all my years i have never seen a cedar shingle roof installed over an asphalt shingle roof but i have seen asphalt shingles over cedar shingles many times the use the older roof as decking if still in good shape

Answer: No, not usually
Explanation: I would remove the existing shingles to inspect the existing roof deck before trying to install wood shakes. It's important to have a good solid deck to nail fasteners into.

Answer: Yes, if the asphalt roof is in decent condition
Explanation: However, they must be split or rough shakes and have either Cedar Breather underlayment (or comparable) or a system of battens. I typically advise to always tear off the existing system to the deck, especially here in Texas.

Answer: Never
Explanation: The asphalt roof will fail and cause the wood roof to fail

Answer: Never
Explanation: Its always best to remove the existing roof, to re-nail the deck and replace any deficient sheathing.