Category: Andrews Roofing

Your roof is one of the first barriers of defense against the elements when it comes to your home or business.  Flashing is an essential part of your roof system.  When installed correctly, it is essential in preventing water intrusion at various locations on your roof.

What is flashing?

The protective seal that prevents water intrusion at areas such as skylights, chimneys, dormers and vents is called flashing.  Flashing is a critical preventive measure for moisture damage when water is most prone to penetrate a roof’s surface.

Where is flashing important?

Flashing is important at all roof penetrations, including edges, valleys, joints and any grooves, gaps, intersections and projections on the roof of any structure.

How can improper flashing damage my roof?

Poor or improper flashing can lead to premature deterioration at roof joints, so it is imperative to have flashing installed correctly when a new roof is installed.  Having it done right the first time is one of the best things you can do to preserve your investment.

Robert Andrews, II  I   757-286-7400   I   [email protected]

Do I go with a less experienced contractor for a significantly lower price?  Can I save money by buying my own materials?  Should I try to repair the roof on my own?

With any investment, such as your home, you really should weigh your options before making major decisions on how to maintain it.  Avoid these pitfalls when making decisions on how to preserve your roof.

1. Starting a major roof repair or replacement by yourself (if you are inexperienced).

Unless you have extensive roofing knowledge, it’s probably best to leave the roof work to the professionals.  Tearing off a roof is dangerous and difficult work.  We have often been called in to “rescue” homeowner from a project that they began but soon realized they were in over their heads.  The mistake is often made in an effort to save a few dollars, however, this can cause more damage and cost more in the long run.  With the proper safety equipment, knowledge and skill level, a certified roofing contractor is the way to go.

2. Buying your own materials.

Shopping around for the best deal is a good thing, but when it comes to having a roof system installed, it pays to allow a qualified contractor with a competitive price to purchase the materials for you.  Not only do you avoid having incorrect quantities or products, the contractor may also have access to better, more competitive pricing due to established relationships with regular suppliers.  A roof installation tends to be a package deal and a good contractor will be able to provide a workmanship and manufacturer’s warranty with your system.

3. Installing a product that does more damage than good over time.

Not all products are good products for your roof.  Contrary to popular belief, rain diverters can actually cause more damage than good, forcing water to back up under shingles, resulting in costly damage.  Another product that can ultimately cause problems are flush mounted skylights.  They typically don’t have a very wide flange and therefore tend to be unable to support high volumes of water.  Under heavy rain, water can go beyond the flange and penetrate beneath the roof, resulting in leaks.  Rely on a qualified contractor to help you decide what products will perform best for your roof.

4. Not hiring a solid contractor.

Make sure that you do your homework.  Find a reputable contractor to perform work on your home. Sometimes price isn’t the only factor to consider when it comes to the service you are receiving.  Talk to friends, family and co-workers about a roofing company in your area that has a good name in the community, competitive pricing and a track record of quality work.   Check the Better Business Bureau, online reviews, and see if there is a company website for a feel and feedback on the contractor’s work history.  You want a company with integrity and a great finished product – it is absolutely worth the extra time.

Robert Andrews II, President
757-286-7400
www.andrewsroofing.com

Cyndy, the newest member of our Andrews Roofing staff, comes to us from up North. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Cyndy has joined our team as an Operations Coordinator.

Cyndy is responsible for taking a job, both hourly repairs and contract work, and coordinating all parties involved to get the job done. This involves an incredible amount of coordination and patience. She directs our suppliers, our customers for job scheduling, and our service repair teams. She is a strong asset behind the scenes as she keeps production flowing under her management.

At the core of our operations department, Cyndy keeps our process running smoothly. She doubles as our resident chief meteorologist, always aware of our current weather conditions to know how it might affect our work schedule.

We are more than happy to have her onboard. Her professionalism, experience and attention to detail make her a major asset to our staff and our customers. Her kindness, patience and effervescent personality enhance our service to the Hampton Roads community. She is a wonderful addition to the Andrews Roofing family.

If you need to schedule your work or would like to place a work order for repairs, feel free to contact Cyndy Lucente.

O: 757-399-3066 | [email protected]

A storm is about to blow through. High winds and heavy rains have been reported and begin to pound your neighborhood. During the storm, you notice a damp spot forming on your ceiling. Although there was a calmer rain a few days ago, this particular storm has caused a leak to appear in your ceiling. Why now?

Often, customers will contact our office to report leaks that have manifested themselves after a storm with wind driven, or driving, rains. We hear that an area of the roof or ceiling leaks, but not consistently with every rain.

Rain that has been propelled by wind, often blowing horizontally, can create water intrusion in ways that may not have been possible if wind was not in the equation.

Wind driven rain can make its way past not only shingles, but flashing, chimneys, skylights, siding, windows, walls, corner boards and dormers.

Having a qualified roofer to evaluate your roof and provide routine maintenance is the best preventive measure. If your property does sustain damage from wind driven rain, be sure to have the repairs done soon after the damage. The longer storm damage remains without repair, the greater the risk for more extensive damages caused by rotten wood, mold, and water damage. Your wallet will thank you.

Robert Andrews II | Andrews Roofing | 757-399-3066 | [email protected]