Can a New Roof Go Over an Old Tar-and-Gravel Roof?

What to check first

• Have the existing assembly and moisture condition assessed.
• Confirm the proposed system is suitable for the substrate and permitted for the building.
• Compare the cost and consequences of recover versus removal before deciding.

Evaluate the complete roof assembly

1. Inspect what is beneath the surface

   Wet insulation, damaged decking, unsuitable attachment, and trapped moisture can change the scope of work. A new top layer cannot restore deteriorated supporting components.

2. Plan the transitions and drainage

   Coordinate edges, parapets, penetrations, drains, and overflow routes with the selected system. These connections are part of the roof, not finishing details to improvise later.

3. Use a building-specific specification

   Follow the selected manufacturer’s assembly requirements and appropriate professional review. Torch application, structural changes, and concealed damage need qualified personnel rather than a general DIY recipe.

Watch the field examples

These archive demonstrations show individual projects. Use the current guidance above and Bergstrom’s published instructions if an older video shows a different product or method. Torch work shown in installation videos is professional work.

From the project archive