Roofing in Bukit Mertajam

Sometimes — an overlay saves tear-off cost but hides deck problems, adds weight, and often shortens the new roof's life and warranty. Many codes and manufacturers limit roofs to two layers. Tear-off costs more upfront and is usually the better long-term decision; get both options priced.

Yes, over time — moss holds moisture against the surface, lifts tile and shingle edges, and accelerates frost damage. Have it removed by soft washing or manual scraping, never high-pressure washing, which strips granules and forces water under the covering. Zinc or copper strips slow regrowth.

Typical service lives: asphalt shingles 15-30 years, concrete tile 40-60, clay tile and slate 60-100+, metal 40-70, flat membranes (felt, EPDM, TPO) 15-30. Underlayment and flashings usually fail before the covering itself, which is why old roofs leak even with intact tiles.

Two separate ones: a manufacturer warranty on materials (often 20-50 years, sometimes conditional on certified installation) and the contractor's own workmanship warranty (5-10 years is respectable). Get both in writing and understand what voids them — foot traffic, unventilated attics and pressure washing are common exclusions.

Common leak repairs run RM300-RM2,500 depending on access and cause, while re-roofing runs roughly RM15-RM45 per square foot. A full re-roof of a terrace or semi-D typically lands at RM25,000-RM85,000.

Metal deck is lighter, faster to install and cheaper, but noisier in heavy rain and hotter without insulation; concrete tile costs more upfront and needs stronger structure but insulates and lasts longer. For monsoon rain, the installation quality of flashings and laps matters more than the covering choice.