Can I apply the X-Brackets and sprayfoam over shingles?

InSoFast X-Brackets can be installed directly over structurally sound asphalt or wood shingles if fasteners penetrate solid wood framing by at least 1.5 inches, followed by closed-cell spray foam application.

Retrofitting exterior walls or roofs without tearing off existing shingle cladding saves demolition labor and disposal fees, which typically run $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot. Builders and remodelers across the United States and Canada use over-cladding strategies to reach 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) continuous insulation targets without disturbing interior living spaces.

If you only do one thing: Ensure every X-Bracket fastener anchors into structural framing rafters or studs rather than only the roof deck or sheathing.

1. Inspect and prep the substrate: Verify the existing shingle roof or wall assembly is completely dry, rot-free, and flat; remove any loose, badly curled, or deteriorated shingles to establish an even backing plane.
2. Layout and bracket alignment: Fasten X-Brackets vertically or horizontally at 16-inch or 24-inch on-center intervals across the surface, providing 77 to 136 square feet of coverage per box starting at $85.35.
3. Select depth and R-value: Choose bracket depths from 2.5 inches (R-10 to R-17.5) up to 9.5 inches (R-50 to R-60) to match regional energy codes and thermal boundary specifications.
4. Fastener embedment: Drive exterior-rated structural screws through the brackets, shingles, and existing deck directly into rafter or stud framing with a minimum 1.5-inch thread embedment.
5. Spray foam installation: Apply closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF) between the bracket channels in 2-inch maximum lift passes, fully encapsulating the shingle layer and eliminating thermal bridging.
6. Cladding attachment: Fasten exterior roof decking or siding directly to the built-in bracket studs, preserving a cross-ventilated cavity where rainscreen drainage is required.

• Watch out for: Trapping bulk moisture beneath the foam; always verify roof decking and wood shingles have a moisture content below 18% prior to spraying.
• Watch out for: Fastening into sheathing alone; securing brackets only into 1/2-inch plywood or OSB without biting into framing will fail code withdrawal load requirements.
• Watch out for: Excessive pass thickness; apply spray foam in maximum 2-inch lifts to prevent exothermic heat accumulation that can degrade asphalt shingles.

Measure your roof or wall square footage, check local climate zone insulation codes to select your bracket depth, and contact InSoFast at (888) 501-7899 for system layout specs.