A complete tear off is needed to properly install your roof. We inspect your roof deck for signs of delamination, damage and rot. We locate these places, and repace the wood prior to the felt installation, and your choice of roof materials. If the old roof is not removed, excess heat from the attic will slowly destroy your new roof and it won't last. Think of it like, putting an egg into a fying pan. It will cook from the bottom, then cook through it.