Roof Recover (Overlay) in Pittsburgh, PA
A recover, or overlay, puts a new roof over the old one instead of tearing it off. On a large commercial roof that can save a big share of the labor and disposal. It is not always allowed, and it is not always smart. Codes based on the International Building Code, which Pennsylvania adopts, generally allow a recover only over a single existing roof that isn't water-soaked or deteriorated, on a deck that can carry the weight. So the first step is core cuts and moisture readings. If the roof qualifies, a cover board goes down over the old roof, then the new membrane, with every flashing rebuilt. If it doesn't, we tell you why, with the cores to show it.
What's included
- Core cuts and moisture readings first
- Deck condition and layer count documented
- Wet areas cut out and replaced
- Gravel removed from built-up roofs
- Cover board over the existing roof
- New TPO, EPDM or modified bitumen
- All flashings and curbs rebuilt
- Edges raised to suit the new height
- Written comparison with full tear-off
Sound like your roof?
- A large commercial roof that is aging but mostly dry
- Only one existing roof layer
- You need a new roof without a full tear-off budget
- Leaks are at details, not across the roof
- A built-up roof with years of patches but dry insulation
Roof Recover (Overlay) — FAQs
Generally over one existing roof that is dry and sound, on a deck that can carry it. Two layers or a wet roof means tear-off.
A recover typically runs about $4–$8 per square foot versus roughly $6–$13 for full replacement. See the cost guide.
Over a dry, sound roof it performs well. Over a wet one it traps water and fails early, which is why cores come first.
Rarely. Most older Pittsburgh flat roofs on houses already have more than one layer.