Learn what roof re-sheeting is, why it matters, and when to do it. Find out how homeowners in Colorado and Georgia can protect their property and roofing investment with a proper roof deck replacement.

What Is Roof Re-Sheeting? A Guide for Colorado & Georgia Homeowners

Residential Roofing
July 04, 2025•3 min read

Roof Re-Sheeting: What Every Homeowner Should Know

If you're planning a roof replacement and your roofer mentions “roof re-sheeting,” don’t ignore it. It’s one of the most important—yet most overlooked—parts of the entire roofing system.

What is Roof Re-Sheeting?

Roof re-sheeting is the process of removing the old roof decking (usually plywood or OSB) and replacing it with new sheathing before installing new shingles or metal panels. This is also called roof deck replacement.

Roof decking serves as the base that holds your roofing materials in place. If the decking is rotted, warped, or structurally unsound, new shingles or panels won't hold properly—and your entire roof is at risk.

When Is Roof Re-Sheeting Necessary?

Re-sheeting is usually needed if:

  • Your existing deck is made of 1x boards, not plywood or OSB.

  • The existing deck is rotted, split, or has gaps wider than 1/8".

  • You’re switching to metal roofing, which requires a flatter and more secure substrate.

  • Your current deck does not meet local building codes.

According to the International Residential Code (IRC), decking should be at least 3/8" thick and structurally sound.

Why Roof Re-Sheeting Matters

If your roof deck is too thin, brittle, or weak:

  • Nails won’t hold, causing shingles to blow off.

  • Moisture may seep into the attic, leading to mold and rot.

  • Your roof warranty may be void.

  • Insurance claims might be denied after a storm.

Roof re-sheeting ensures your roof has a solid foundation. It’s like replacing rotten subflooring before putting in new carpet—it’s necessary, not optional.

Roof Re-Sheeting Cost in Colorado & Georgia

Re-sheeting adds about $2 to $5 per square foot to a roofing job. For a 2,000 sq. ft. roof, that’s about $4,000 to $10,000.

Costs vary based on:

  • Roof size and pitch

  • Type of material (OSB or plywood)

  • Local labor rates

  • City building code requirements

In Colorado cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, cold and hail-prone weather means roof decks take a beating. Georgia homes, especially in humid areas like Savannah or Augusta, are prone to rot and mold from moisture trapped under older shingles.

What Codes Say

According to the 2021 IRC and IBC:

  • All sheathing must be structurally sound and able to hold fasteners properly.

  • Any deck with more than 1/8" gaps between boards must be re-sheeted.

  • If using shingles or standing seam metal, minimum thicknesses apply: 7/16" OSB or 15/32" plywood.

FAQs

How do I know if my roof needs re-sheeting?
Your contractor should walk the roof and attic. Signs include soft spots, visible water stains, sagging, or older 1x planks.

Can I just install new shingles over the old deck?
Only if the existing deck is code-compliant, flat, and nail-holding. Otherwise, it will void your new roof’s warranty.

Is re-sheeting required with metal roofing?
Yes, in most cases. Metal roofs need a smooth, solid base for proper installation and thermal movement.

Is roof re-sheeting covered by insurance?
Sometimes. If it’s due to storm damage or rot from a covered event, yes. If it's age-related or code-required, likely not.

Final Thoughts

If your contractor recommends roof re-sheeting, they’re not upselling you—they’re protecting your home. It's a vital part of a safe, durable, and code-compliant roofing system, especially in states like Colorado and Georgia.

Need a second opinion on your roof deck?

📍 Colorado Office:
Call 303-276-2403 or visit RoofNutsCO.com

📍 Georgia Office:
Call 404-476-6851 or visit RoofNutsGA.com

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