Leaks & Service Repairs

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Reroof Estimates & Inspections

757-399-3066 ext 1 (Reroof Estimates & Inspections)

Category: Architectural Shingles

Roof Replacement ROI: The Hidden Financial Perks of a New Roof

Replacing your roof is a major home improvement project, and for many homeowners, the upfront cost can feel daunting.

But what many people don’t realize is that a new roof is also a smart financial investment that can pay off in a number of ways—both immediately and long-term. From lowering your monthly bills to increasing your home’s resale value, here are some of the top financial benefits of investing in a total roof replacement.

  1. Lower Energy Costs

Older roofs often have worn-out shingles, deteriorating underlayment, or poor ventilation. All of these factors allow air to escape (or stay trapped), making your HVAC system work harder to heat or cool your home. A new roof with modern materials and proper insulation and ventilation can improve energy efficiency, leading to lower monthly utility bills. Over time, these savings add up significantly. Some roofing products are even ENERGY STAR® rated or “cool roof” certified, which may qualify you for additional rebates or tax credits.

  1. Potentially Lower Insurance Premiums

Insurance companies know that older roofs are more likely to fail during storms, leading to costly claims. Many insurance companies offer better rates for homeowners who invest in a new roof because it reduces the risk of leaks, water damage, and structural issues. In Southeast Virginia, where hurricanes and nor’easters are a constant reality, this can be an especially valuable benefit. A stronger, more resilient roof could keep you from paying hefty deductibles after storm damage and seeing your insurance rate skyrocket.

  1. Increased Resale Value

If you plan on selling your home in the next 5–10 years, a new roof is one of the top upgrades that attracts buyers. A roof replacement not only boosts curb appeal but also provides peace of mind for potential buyers, knowing they won’t need to take on a major repair immediately after purchase. Most real estate agents will tell you that homes with newer roofs sell faster and often for more money. Plus, some roofing warranties are transferable, a great selling point that will appeal to any buyer.

  1. More Home Equity and Better Financing Options

For homeowners considering refinancing or taking out a home equity loan, the appraised value of your home matters. A new roof can raise that appraisal, giving you more equity to borrow against for other improvements, debt consolidation, or major expenses. Some lenders also look at roof age when assessing loan risk, so replacing your roof may even help secure better interest rates.

  1. Avoiding Costly Repairs Elsewhere in the Home

Older roofs are more prone to leaks, missing shingles, and other recurring issues. While patchwork repairs might seem cheaper in the moment, they add up quickly and don’t fix the root of the problem when a roof has reached the end of its lifespan. Older, decaying roof materials can also allow water intrusion, causing damage to insulation, drywall, flooring, and even your home’s foundation. By replacing your roof, you’re protecting the rest of your home from cascading repair costs.

  1. Long-Term Protection and Peace of Mind

Financial security isn’t just about immediate savings—it’s also about avoiding unexpected expenses. With a new roof under warranty, you won’t have to worry about sudden leaks or emergency repairs draining your savings. That peace of mind has real financial value, since it lets you plan your household budget without the fear of surprise expenses.

Make a Smart Investment with a Local Team

Replacing your roof is a financial decision that can benefit you now and well into the future. But we know that it’s also a major investment, so if you’re ready to make the financially wise choice for your home, contact Andrews Roofing today. Our team has decades of experience helping homeowners in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, and Southeast Virginia protect their investment with expert roof replacements that last.

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How Small Hail Can Damage an Asphalt Fiberglass Shingle Roof

Recently Hampton Roads has experienced a rash of late-spring severe weather events, which have included small hailstorms. You may have experienced damage to your property from these storms that was obvious: cracked windows, dented car hoods, beaten or broken plants and landscaping. But did you know there may also be damage that you can’t see immediately?

Small hail, generally considered to be less than 1 inch in diameter (think pea to marble-sized), can still cause damage to your home’s asphalt fiberglass shingled roof – especially over time and with repeat incidents. The impact may seem minimal, but if these types of severe storms continue as they have been, there are signs you should keep an eye out for and damage that can add up.

Granule Loss

The most common damage that occurs from small hail is the dislodging of the protective granules on the surface of the shingles. These granules shield the underlying asphalt and fiberglass layers from direct sunlight, which causes UV damage and weathering. Even small hail can have a big impact on your roof if the storm is long enough, severe enough, or if the hail events happen repeatedly.

What you are likely to notice if this damage occurs is granules accumulating in your gutters and downspouts after a hail event or rainstorms that occur shortly after the hail event. When the granules are degraded, you’ll start to notice shingles that are brittle, and that will begin to crack and fail over time.

Bruising and Indentations

Small hail is unlikely to puncture your shingles; however, it can cause small indentations or bruises on the shingle surface. These impact points can weaken the shingle structure at a microscopic level. Pressure from the hailstones (especially in the case of slightly larger hail), can actually cause the asphalt layer to compress, while also crushing the asphalt granules. While these compression points may not immediately cause leaks, they can create points of weakness where cracking or further granule loss is more likely to occur – especially when temperatures change.

Exposure of the Fiberglass Mat

In some cases, if the hail is severe or torrential enough, the impact can be forceful enough to not only remove granules but also damage or expose the fiberglass mat beneath the asphalt. This mat is what provides tensile strength to each shingle, so even small tears or damage to the fiberglass layer can increase the risk of roof damage, especially when wind becomes involved. Shingles that are damaged down to this layer should be repaired and replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the roof decking.

Damage to Flashing and Other Components

Even if your shingles don’t experience significant damage, it doesn’t quite mean you’re in the clear. Small hail can still damage metal flashing around vents, chimneys, and other roof penetrations by denting or loosening them. Gutters and downspouts can also sustain minor dents from small hail or loosening from the roof edge or side of the home. While this may not cause an immediate leak, it can affect their functionality, which over time can cause water damage to other parts of your home. It may also simply affect the aesthetics of your home’s exterior.

Bottom Line: Accelerated Weathering

The cumulative effect of this type of hail damage (granule loss, bruising, fiberglass exposure, denting) can accelerate the overall weathering process of your roof. Exposed asphalt deteriorates faster; the shingles lose their flexibility and become more brittle and likely to break. This can shorten the lifespan of your entire roof, while also making it more susceptible to damage from other types of subsequent weather events.

Things to Consider:

  • Age and Condition of the Roof: Older roofs or those already in poor condition are more susceptible to damage from even small hail. Brittle shingles will be more easily damaged.
  • Duration and Intensity of the Hailstorm: A prolonged storm with even small hail can cause more cumulative damage than a brief one.
  • Wind: Small hail accompanied by strong winds can exacerbate the damage by driving the hailstones with more force and potentially lifting shingle edges, making them more vulnerable to impact.

What to Do Next

It’s always a good idea to have your roof inspected by a qualified professional after any hailstorm, even if the hail appears small, to assess for potential damage that might not be immediately visible. This is especially true for older roofs, roofs with existing damage or in the case of severe, prolonged, or repeated hail events.

The professionals here at Andrews Roofing are highly experienced with the Hampton Roads region and the types of damage that are common with our weather conditions. As a locally owned and operated licensed roofing company, we do our best to treat every customer like our neighbors – because they are! Contact us today if you have any concerns about the condition of your roof after a severe southeast Virginia weather event.

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Understanding Roofing Warranties: A Guide for Hampton Roads Homeowners

At Andrews Roofing, we’ve been serving the Hampton Roads community for decades, so we’ve handled hundreds of roofing warranty claims and know exactly what to expect given our local climate and the standard coverage by most manufacturers.

Whether you’re considering architectural asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or innovative recycled Enviroshake products, understanding your warranty is crucial to protecting your investment. Here’s what you need to know.

Manufacturer vs. Workmanship Warranties

Most roofing materials come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which covers defects in the materials themselves. However, these warranties often require that the materials be installed by a certified and licensed roofing contractor to remain valid. If an unqualified installer handles your roof, you could lose your warranty protection altogether.

On the other hand, workmanship warranties are sometimes offered by the roofing company itself and cover errors in installation. These warranties can vary widely between contractors, so when getting a repair or roof replacement estimate, make sure you ask what is covered and for how long, and make sure you’re not talking to a fly-by-night company that’s here today, gone tomorrow.

Roofing Material-Specific Warranties

Different roofing materials come with different warranty terms, so when considering what type of material and which brand to go with, consider this information as well. An experienced estimator or sales associate at a professional roofing company should be able to explain the specific warranty details of any material they install.

  • Architectural Asphalt Shingles: Offer enhanced durability and can come with warranties lasting 30 to 40 years, presuming they are installed by a certified roofer; however, coverage may be prorated over time.
  • Metal Roofing: Generally comes with warranties ranging from 40 to 50 years, with some premium options offering lifetime coverage. But keep in mind that color and finish warranties may be different from the terms of the structural warranty. Our standard factory applied paint finish warranty for metal roofing is 30 years, but this could vary depending on your installer.
  • Recycled Enviroshake Products: Often carry warranties of 50 years or more due to their eco-friendly, durable composition. Again, proper installation is key to ensuring full coverage.

The Role of Regular Maintenance

Even with a strong warranty, homeowners are typically responsible for regular maintenance to keep their roof in good condition. Neglecting maintenance, such as cleaning gutters, removing debris, and inspecting for minor damage, could void your warranty. Some warranties may also require periodic professional inspections to remain in effect.

What’s Not Covered

Many homeowners assume their warranty will cover any roof-related issue, but that’s often not the case. Most warranties do not cover:

  • Damage from extreme weather, such as hurricanes, hail, or falling trees
  • Improper installation by uncertified or unlicensed contractors
  • Poor ventilation or structural issues related to the home’s design

Out-of-Pocket Costs for Repairs

If a defect is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, the material cost may be included, but labor to replace the defective product is often not. Alternatively, workmanship warranties from your contractor may cover installation-related issues, but they typically don’t include material defects. Depending on your situation, homeowners may need to pay labor costs, disposal fees, and other expenses associated with a warranty claim. Be sure to ask about these costs up front before the repair or replacement begins. Any other items not covered under a warranty are often left to the homeowner to pay out of pocket unless the damage is substantial enough to pursue an insurance claim, which we are happy to advise on and assist our clients with when needed.

Andrews Roofing Can Help

A good roofing warranty can provide peace of mind, but it’s essential to read the fine print and work with a certified roofing contractor. At Andrews Roofing, we take pride in ensuring our customers in Hampton Roads get the best warranties available through proper installation and quality workmanship. If you have questions about roofing warranties or need an inspection, contact us today!

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Manufacturer Spotlight: Timberline HDZ Shingles

As a small, locally owned roofing company in Southeast Virginia, we understand the unique challenges our region presents, from humid summers to occasional hurricanes.

That’s why we trust Timberline HDZ shingles from GAF for our roofing projects. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of these shingles and why they’re an excellent choice for your home.

Superior Durability

Living in Hampton Roads means dealing with unpredictable weather. Timberline HDZ shingles are designed for advanced durability. They feature GAF’s LayerLock™ technology, which ensures each shingle stays firmly in place, even in high winds – an innovation that is particularly important in our area, where strong winds and heavy rains can be a concern. In fact, Timberline HDZ shingles are rated to withstand winds up to 130 mph when installed with the required accessories—perfect for homes in hurricane-prone regions.

Superior Aesthetic Appeal

A roof is more than just a functional part of your home; it’s a significant contributor to curb appeal. Timberline HDZ shingles come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to choose a style that complements their home’s design. The shingles’ dimensional look mimics the appearance of wood shakes, giving your roof a high-end, polished appearance without the high-end cost.

Peace of Mind with Warranties

When you invest in a new roof, you want to know it will last. Timberline HDZ shingles come with GAF’s robust warranties, including their Lifetime Limited Warranty. This means that as long as your roof is installed by a GAF-certified contractor like Andrews Roofing, you can enjoy long-term protection against defects and wear.

Enhanced Installation Efficiency

For our team, the installation process is just as important as the product itself. Timberline HDZ shingles are designed with StrikeZone™ nailing technology, the industry’s widest nail zone. This innovation not only speeds up installation but also ensures precise nailing, which enhances the roof’s overall integrity. A quicker, more accurate installation means fewer disruptions for you and a roof that’s built to last.

Eco-Friendly Roofing Solution

We know many homeowners are looking for sustainable options, and Timberline HDZ shingles check that box as well. They are designed with an emphasis on sustainability, meeting some of the industry’s highest standards for recycled content. Additionally, the shingles’ long lifespan helps reduce waste by minimizing the need for frequent roof replacements.

Andrews Roofing: Your Neighborhood Roofing Company

As a locally owned business, we’re deeply committed to our community. We’re not just here to install your roof, we’re here to build lasting relationships based on trust and quality workmanship. We value referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations, which we know we can only earn through exceptional service.

By choosing us and a quality product such as Timberline HDZ shingles, you’re not only investing in a top-notch product but also supporting a roofing company that truly cares about your home and our Tidewater community.

If you’re considering a roof replacement, contact us today for a free consultation and estimate. Let us help you protect your home with a roof that’s built to last.

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Why Choosing the Cheapest Roofing Company Isn’t Always the Best Choice

It’s tempting and understandable to try and find the best deal you can when you’re looking to make improvements to your home.

As a small, family-owned roofing company who has been serving Hampton Roads homeowners for decades, we know that a roofing project can be a significant financial investment. But choosing the cheapest quote you receive can backfire, and cost more in the long run. We often see the aftermath of “cut-rate” roofing jobs when we’re called in to fix the additional problems it caused. To help you avoid this costly mistake, here are a few reasons why the cheapest isn’t always the best, and what to look for in a reputable roofing contractor.

1. You Get What You Pay For

The primary reason one roofing company may come in with a significantly lower big for your job is because they’re cutting corners. Typically, this means:

  • Substandard Materials: Using low-quality shingles or underlayment that may fail sooner and that don’t offer material warranties.
  • Rushed Work: To keep costs down, crews may rush the job, leading to improper installation and overlooked issues.
  • Inexperienced Crews: Inexperienced crews cost the contractor less but can cost you way more when work is done incorrectly, leading to damage and voided warranties.

A poorly done roofing job can result in leaks, poor insulation, or even structural damage, costing you more in repairs over time than if you’d chosen a trusted company upfront.

2. Lack of Insurance and Liability Coverage

Reputable roofing companies carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation. This protects you as the homeowner in case of accidents or damage to your property. This type of coverage costs reputable companies quite a bit of money, so some companies will bypass this critical requirement to be able to undercut their competition.

  • Uninsured Contractors: If an uninsured roofer is injured on your property, you could be held liable for medical costs.
  • No Guarantee of Repairs: Without insurance, you may have to cover any damages caused by the contractor out of your pocket.

Always verify a company’s insurance before signing a contract. If a company balks at your request for this information, you should probably walk away.

3. Warranty Matters

Most reputable roofing companies offer warranties on both materials and labor. These warranties provide peace of mind and protection for your investment.

  • No Warranty? No Recourse: Cut-rate companies might not offer any labor warranty, leaving you with no protection if problems arise due to lack of expertise.
  • Manufacturers’ Warranties May Not Apply: Improper installation by a less experienced crew can void manufacturers’ warranties on materials.

Always ask specific questions about a company’s warranty policies and material warranties before work starts. If they can’t provide this information to you in writing or concrete terms, that’s a red flag.

4. Experience and Skill Count

Roofing is a skill honed by experience. Family-owned companies like ours have often spent years perfecting our craft and building a reputation for quality work.

  • Inexperienced Crews: Lower-cost roofers may use untrained or less experienced workers, increasing the risk of mistakes, damages and injury.
  • Attention to Detail: An experienced roofer knows how to handle complex issues like ventilation, flashing, and drainage. They also know the specific issues that are more likely to happen in our Southeast Virginia climate and will work to ensure those are proactively handled.

5. Long-Term Value

While a higher price might seem daunting, it often reflects the value of quality materials, skilled labor, and a commitment to excellence. Investing in quality work and materials does have long-term financial benefits.

  • Energy Efficiency: Proper installation and quality materials can improve insulation and ventilation, reducing energy bills.
  • Curb Appeal and Home Value: A well-done roof enhances your home’s appearance and resale value. Most high-quality roofing materials have transferable warranties, so even if you’re planning on selling your home, it could be a selling point to be able to tell the next owners their roof is covered.

What to Look for in a Roofing Company

To make the best decision for your home, consider the following when hiring a roofing contractor:

  • Local Reputation: Check online reviews and ask for local references. Ask how long they’ve been in business and if they operated anywhere else. A business that’s moved from state to state could indicate a “fly by night” situation.
  • Certifications: Ensure the company is licensed and certified by reputable manufacturers. A legitimate business should be able to provide proof of both.
  • Licensed and Insured: Ask for specific business license and insurance coverage information to avoid accidents you may be liable for.
  • Transparency: Get a detailed estimate that breaks down costs for materials and labor. Don’t feel embarrassed to ask your estimator or salesperson about the experience of the crew who will be working on your home. A solid company should be able to stand behind their labor.

Andrews Roofing: A Reputable Choice

At Andrews Roofing, we pride ourselves on being a trusted, family-owned business that the Tidewater Region has trusted in their homes for years. We may not be the cheapest quote you get, but we prioritize quality, integrity, and long-term relationships with our customers. When you choose us, you’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re partnering with a neighbor who cares about your home as much as you do.

Investing in a quality roofing company today can save you headaches and expenses tomorrow. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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How Hampton Roads Weather Affects Your Home’s Roof

Fall is upon us, but in Hampton Roads that means nearly every season is upon us.

If you’ve lived in the Tidewater Region as long as we have, you know that during autumn, you might have fall, winter, spring and summer weather within the span of a week – sometimes even a day!

As a company serving southeast Virginia for decades, we know firsthand how weather patterns can influence the health of your roof. Our region’s unique climate — with its hot, humid summers, unpredictable storms, and occasional cold snaps — takes a toll on roofs in ways that homeowners may not realize. Here, we’ll break down the types of weather we experience and how each can affect your roof, helping you stay ahead of potential issues.

Hot and Humid Summers

Southeastern Virginia summers are known for their high temperatures and humidity levels. These conditions can have several effects on your roof:

  • Thermal Expansion and Contraction: Prolonged exposure to high heat causes roofing materials to expand. When temperatures drop at night, they contract. Over time, this constant movement can cause shingles to crack or warp, particularly on older roofs.
  • Moisture Build-up: Humidity doesn’t just make the air feel thick — it also increases moisture levels in your roofing materials. If your attic ventilation isn’t adequate, this moisture can get trapped, leading to mold growth, rot, or weakening of the roof’s structure.
  • UV Rays: The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can weaken the oils in asphalt shingles, making them brittle and more prone to cracking and breaking, particularly on older roofing materials made before UV protectant features were incorporated into modern products.

Heavy Rainfall and Thunderstorms

The Mid Atlantic sees frequent, and often unpredictable thunderstorms, especially during the warmer months. While the rain itself might seem harmless, it can cause significant damage over time:

  • Water Leaks: Even the smallest crack or hole in your roof can let water in, leading to leaks that damage insulation, ceilings, and walls. Regular inspections, both inside and outside of your home, are key to catching these issues early.
  • Gutter Clogs: Heavy rainfall, combined with the leaves and debris that gather in gutters, can lead to clogs. If water can’t flow freely off your roof, it can pool and eventually seep under shingles, leading to water damage and wood rot.
  • Wind Damage: Strong winds can lift shingles and flashing, loosen nails, or even tear off parts of your roof. This makes your roof vulnerable to water intrusion and further damage.

Hurricane Season

Hampton Roads is no stranger to tropical storms and hurricanes. The high winds, torrential rains, and flying debris from these storms can wreak havoc on roofs:

  • Shingle Loss: Winds from hurricanes and tropical storms can reach speeds that rip shingles right off your roof, especially if they are older, damaged or installed incorrectly. This creates openings for water to enter your home, leading to leaks and potential structural damage.
  • Falling Debris: Hurricanes and strong storms often bring down tree branches and other debris. If a large enough object hits your roof, it can cause punctures or even collapse parts of the roof structure.
  • Roof Uplift: Extremely high winds can cause roof uplift, where the wind pressure beneath the eaves or overhangs lifts the entire roof system off your home. While unlikely, it’s not impossible, and with the increase in tornadic activity in our region, it’s becoming more and more of a concern.

Winter Weather and Freezing Temperatures

While we might not experience harsh winter conditions like regions to our north, freezing temperatures and occasional snow can still affect your roof, especially when you’re not prepared for it or are unaware of the potential issues:

  • Ice dams: Ice dams form when snow on your roof melts, runs down to the edge, and refreezes. This buildup can block proper drainage, forcing water under your shingles and into your home. Proper attic insulation and ventilation help reduce the risk of ice dams.
  • Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Like the heat of summer, cold weather causes roofing materials to contract. Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can worsen cracks in shingles, leading to water infiltration.
  • Snow Load: While we don’t get heavy snow frequently, when we do, the added weight can stress the structural integrity of your roof. It’s always a good idea to clear excess snow if possible. Especially after one of those once-every-twenty-years storms.

Salt Air and Coastal Conditions

Particularly for those homeowners in Virginia Beach near the Atlantic Ocean, or even in Norfolk, Hampton or Newport News along the brackish waters of the Chesapeake Bay – the salt in the air is an often-overlooked factor that can affect your roof’s longevity:

  • Corrosion: Metal components of your roof, such as flashing or fasteners, are susceptible to corrosion from salt exposure. Over time, this can weaken the overall structure, leading to costly repairs if left unchecked.
  • Accelerated Aging: The combination of moisture, salt, and wind can accelerate the aging process of your roof materials, making regular maintenance even more essential.

Hampton Roads Can Rely on Andrews Roofing

We understand the unique challenges that southeastern Virginia weather poses for our neighbors. Our team is here to ensure your roof can withstand whatever nature throws at it, and that you get the most out of your roofing investment. We offer professional consultations to assess the health of your roof and recommend solutions that fit your needs and budget.

And for all new roofs, we use the highest quality materials that hold up to the weather and wind conditions of our region. Our installation is always done by licensed and insured professionals exactly according to manufacturer specifications, so your warranty is safe for its entire lifespan.

If you’re concerned about how the weather this fall may affect your roof, contact Andrews Roofing today. We’re proud to serve our community with high-quality, customer-focused service.

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