Schedule Appointment
Austin Pro Calender Icon
Appointment
phone icon
Call Us
Austin Pro Siding, Windows, Roofing, Patio Covers Logo

Metal Roof Installation Over Old Shingles: Yay or Nay?

By
austin pro
Written by Austin Pro Management
July 22, 2024

While shingles are the most widely used roofing option in Northern America, metal roofs are also popular in their own right. If you’re replacing your shingle roof with a metal roofing system, it makes sense to ask whether the old shingle layers have to be removed prior to the installation of the new roof.

In this article, Austin Pro Siding, Windows & Roofing, one of the most trusted roofing and siding replacement companies in the area, weighs in on whether existing asphalt shingles need  to be removed to make way for the installation of your metal roof.

The Experts Weigh In

The short answer is: no. In fact, a majority of metal roofing installations are done over existing layer shingles. This is because metal roofs are lighter than asphalt roofs. For instance, steel shingles only weigh around ¼ of the weight of asphalt shingles, while aluminum shingles only weigh about ? of what standard asphalt shingles weigh.

Installing metal over asphalt shingles is feasible because it won’t affect the metal roof’s performance at all. While most roofing and siding installers would advise against installing asphalt shingles over old shingle layers due to warranty and roof performance purposes, installing metal over old shingles abides by completely different rules.

The Perks

You can even benefit more from installing your metal roof over old shingles. First, no shingles removed from the roof means no shingles ending up on the landfills. In fact, having an extra layer increases the thermal resistance of the roof assembly. Apart from being an eco-friendly move, you can also save some remodeling dollars by not removing the old shingles and disposing of it, as some roofers charge extra for these services.

Want a hassle free roofing experience? Austin Pro Siding, Windows & Roofing is the company to trust! Our experience as one of the leading roofing and siding companies around allows us to provide our clients with the best exterior renovation experience. Call us today at (512) 550-0000 to request an appointment.

What You Need to Know About Siding Caulk
February 28, 2026
What You Need to Know About Siding Caulk

It's the first line of defense. Learn why high-quality caulk is essential for a watertight exterior.

The Real Reason We Keep Tearing Out 5-Year-Old Wood Decks in Austin
April 8, 2026
The Real Reason We Keep Tearing Out 5-Year-Old Wood Decks in Austin

Austin's brutal climate — 140°F deck surfaces, sudden floods, and hard freezes — can turn a pressure-treated wood deck into a rotting liability in as little as five years. From hidden joist decay to thousands in recurring maintenance costs, the true price of a wood deck in Central Texas is far higher than most homeowners realize. Discover why Austin contractors and homeowners are making the permanent switch to composite decking.

Siding Repair Decisions: DIY or Professional Help?
February 28, 2026
Siding Repair Decisions: DIY or Professional Help?

DIY or Pro? We weigh the risks and savings of handling siding repairs yourself.

Top 10 Roof Replacement Signs Every Austin Homeowner Should Know
February 28, 2026
Top 10 Roof Replacement Signs Every Austin Homeowner Should Know

specific to Austin weather, here are the top 10 signs your roof needs immediate attention.

The Honest Truth About How Composite Decking Actually Performs in the Brutal Austin Heat
March 20, 2026
The Honest Truth About How Composite Decking Actually Performs in the Brutal Austin Heat

Austin's extreme heat puts every deck material to the test — and composite decking has a complicated reputation. This guide cuts through the myths to explain how modern capped composite boards actually perform in Central Texas summers, and what color, product type, and installation details make or break your investment.

Should You Finish Your Siding Replacement in the Fall?
February 28, 2026
Should You Finish Your Siding Replacement in the Fall?

Is fall the best time for siding? We discuss the benefits of renovating in cooler weather.