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Leaks & Service Repairs

757-399-3066 ext 3 (Leaks & Service Repairs)

Reroof Estimates & Inspections

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

Category: Roof Flashing

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Industry News, Pipe Collars, Rapid Rain Gutter System, Residential Roofing, Roof Damage, Roof Flashing, Roof Insulation, Roof Leak, Roof Maintenance, Roofing Information, Roofing Repairs

Resolve to Protect Your Home with a Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

Start the new year out right by checking a few important items off your home-maintenance to-do list.

Just like setting personal resolutions at the first of the year, resolving to take better care of your home, and especially your roof, is an investment that pays off all year long.

In Hampton Roads (HRVA), roofs face a unique combination of challenges: coastal humidity, salt air, heavy rain, high winds, summer heat, and the occasional winter freeze. Seasonal maintenance helps homeowners catch small issues early, protect their roofing system, and extend the life of their roof.

We’ve broken down your annual roof care into seasonal, home-owner safe checklists to make these tasks manageable and effective – without ever having to climb on the roof!

Winter: Monitor & Protect

While winter doesn’t usually bring heavy snow to Southeast Virginia, cold snaps, fluctuating temperatures and freezing rain can still cause issues.

Winter Maintenance Checklist

  • Watch for interior warning signs: Keep an eye out for water stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paint or unexplained humidity in certain rooms or areas.
  • Check attic moisture levels: Condensation or frost inside your attic may indicate ventilation problems, which could be fixed just by shifting insulation.
  • Monitor roof edges: Heavy icicles or uneven melting can signal insulation or airflow issues from the inside.
  • Avoid walking on the roof! Use a roof rake from the ground if necessary, never climb on icy surfaces.

Why it matters to HRVA: Our inconsistent winter temperatures can cause freeze-thaw cycles that even when brief can make existing cracks worse or create gaps around flashing.

Spring: Reset After Winter Weather

Even mild winters can leave behind hidden wear and tear, especially after wind events and fluctuating temperatures.

Spring Maintenance Checklist

  • Do a ground-level roof inspection: Look for missing, curling, or cracked shingles as well as visible damage around chimneys, vents, and flashing. Do a visual inspection to see if any sections of gutters have pulled away from the roofline and ensure all gutter downspouts are still securely attached.
  • Clean gutters and downspouts: Remove leaves, pine needles, and debris and ensure downspouts are directing water well away from your foundation.
  • Inspect attic ventilation: Look for moisture, condensation, or mildew and make sure soffit and ridge vents aren’t blocked by insulation.
  • Trim back trees and branches: Prevent damage caused by overgrown or loose limbs and reduce debris buildup during spring storms.

Why it matters to HRVA: Spring rains are frequent, and clogged gutters or compromised flashing can quickly lead to leaks if winter damage isn’t addressed.

Summer: Manage Heat, Humidity & Storm Exposure

Southeast Virginia summers bring intense heat, high humidity, and sudden thunderstorms – all of which put stress on roofing systems.

Summer Maintenance Checklist

  • Check attic insulation: Look for compressed, displaced, or damp insulation. Uneven insulation can trap heat and drive-up energy costs.
  • Monitor attic temperatures: Excessive heat may indicate poor ventilation – upper floors that feel noticeably hotter can be a warning sign.
  • Inspect roof for gaps: From the ground, check vent boots and flashing for cracking or separation.
  • After storms, perform visual checks: Look for new debris, shingle movement, or granules collecting near downspouts, which could signal shingle deterioration.

Why it matters to HRVA: High heat accelerates shingle aging, while humidity and poor ventilation can lead to moisture problems inside the attic—especially in older homes.

Fall: Clear, Seal & Prepare for Cooler Weather

Fall is one of the most important seasons for roof maintenance—and one of the best times to address minor issues, when the temperatures are more forgiving.

Fall Maintenance Checklist

  • Thoroughly clean gutters: Falling leaves can quickly cause blockages and backed-up gutters can lead to fascia damage and interior leaks.
  • Inspect flashing and seals: Pay special attention to chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes. Any loose flashing or separating seals are bound to invite issues when the winter temperature fluctuations start.
  • Check attic air sealing: Look and feel for drafts around attic hatches or recessed lighting. Drafty air or increased temperatures may indicate the need for insulation replacement or better sealing.
  • Schedule a professional roof inspection: Fall is ideal for preventative maintenance before winter weather arrives.

Why it matters to HRVA: Fall storms and lingering humidity mean small vulnerabilities can worsen quickly if left unattended.

Resolve to Protect Your Home

Resolving to care for your roof season by season is one of the smartest and easiest ways to protect your home’s structure, comfort, and value. Routine visual checks and preventative maintenance can help extend the life of your roof, reduce emergency repairs, and identify issues before they become costly problems.

Andrews Roofing is here for every season.

If your seasonal checklist reveals concerns, or if you’d simply like an expert set of eyes on your roof, Andrews Roofing offers professional inspections and maintenance services throughout the Tidewater region. Our team understands the unique demands of the local climate and can help keep your roofing system performing its best year after year. Contact us today!

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Andrews Roofing off to an Early Start – Dunkin Donuts

Dunkin Donuts Store in Aylett, VA
Location: Tappahannock, VA

Project Description:

Every morning, our crews load up materials in preparation for the work day ahead.  We get an early start in the summer when days get hot quickly. On this particular morning, our team was heading up to the jobsite for a new Dunkin Donuts location in Aylett, in King William County, VA.  Our scope of work involved installation of an R=30 polyiso roof insulation and Durolast white 40 mil roof system.

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Commercial Roofing, Rapid Rain Gutter System, Residential Roofing, Roof Flashing, Roof Leak, Roof Maintenance, Roofing Repairs

Hurricane Prep for Homeowners in Southeast Virginia

Hurricane season is an unfortunate, but familiar reality for homeowners in Hampton Roads and across Southeast Virginia.

Every year the local and national meteorologists take their best bet on how many storms we’ll have and how severe they may be, but anyone who has lived here long enough knows – you truly can’t predict the weather when it comes to tropical storm systems. But even if you can’t control how and when the storms will hit, there are things you can control around your own home —starting from the top down. Your roof and gutters are your first line of defense against high winds and heavy rain, and proper preparation can make a major difference in minimizing potential storm damage.

As we head into high hurricane season, when historically the storms in our region are the most frequent and severe, we’ve compiled some practical ways you can prepare your home, including steps that can help you in the event you need to file an insurance claim.

  1. Inspect Your Roof for Weak Points

Before hurricane season ramps up, schedule a professional roof inspection. A roofing contractor can check for:

  • Loose, missing, or damaged shingles
  • Exposed fasteners or flashing issues
  • Soft spots in decking that may indicate water damage
  • Signs of aging or deterioration in your roof system

If issues are found, addressing these small problems now, by having a professional do the repairs, can help prevent much larger issues if a storm rolls through. If major damage occurs, you’ll also have paperwork showing that your roof was recently inspected and/or repaired and so any subsequent damage was, in fact, caused by the storm itself. This can come in handy when filing insurance claims.

  1. Clean and Secure Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters play a critical role in keeping water away from your home’s foundation. Before a storm, clear out any leaves, sticks, or debris that may be clogging them. Also, check that your gutters and downspouts are securely fastened to your home—strong winds can easily tear loose systems away, creating projectiles that could cause even more damage. Consider installing gutter guards if you live in a heavily wooded areas where pine needles, leaves or other debris buildup is a recurring problem.

  1. Trim Overhanging Branches

Tree limbs that hang over your roof or gutters can break during high winds and cause serious damage. Trimming back trees from around your house before storm season will reduce the likelihood of branches penetrating and damaging your roof. It also reduces the impact of leaves clogging your gutters. Call out a professional tree company before the storms hit, because once they do, it could be months before any tree company in the area will have availability again.

  1. Document Your Roof and Home Exterior

If you’ve ever had to file an insurance claim for storm damage you know how important this step is. In the event of storm damage, having clear, up-to-date photos of your roof and home exterior can make the insurance claims process much smoother. Take detailed photos and videos of your roof, gutters, siding, and yard before hurricane season begins and before each major storm is predicted to come through the Tidewater region. Store them digitally in case you need to access them quickly. Having them on your phone is ideal, in case computers or other hardware is damaged or inaccessible.

  1. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Now is also the time to check your homeowner’s insurance policy. Make sure your coverage is current and that you understand what is and isn’t covered when it comes to wind and water damage. If necessary, update or increase your insurance coverage. This is especially important for homeowners without mortgages. While individuals with mortgages typically have to keep their insurance at a particular level to satisfy the lender, unmortgaged homes don’t have this requirement. If your home is paid off and it’s been a while since you’ve updated your coverage, now is the time to do so. Keep a copy of your policy and your insurance company’s contact information in a safe, waterproof location as well as in your phone for easy access.

  1. Schedule Regular Maintenance

The best preparation is ongoing care. Regular roof and gutter maintenance not only protects your home during hurricane season but also extends the lifespan of your roof. Consider setting up annual inspections with a trusted local roofing company to ensure your roof is always ready to face the elements.

Trust Andrews Roofing to Help You Weather the Storm

At Andrews Roofing, we’ve been helping Hampton Roads homeowners protect their homes for decades. From routine inspections to emergency repairs after a storm, our team has the expertise for our particular region to keep your roof performing at its best. If you’d like to schedule a roof inspection before hurricane season, contact us today.

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Architectural Shingles, Residential Roofing, Roof Flashing, Roof Maintenance, Roofing Information, Roofing Repairs

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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What’s Beating Up Your Roof Between Storms?

At Andrews Roofing, we’ve spent decades up on the roofs of homes and businesses across Hampton Roads, and one thing we’ve learned is that while hurricanes and nor’easters tend to get the most attention, they’re not the only culprits when it comes to roof damage in our region. Living in Southeast Virginia brings with it a mix of unique environmental conditions that can take a toll on your roof—often silently and slowly over time.

Here are some of the most common (but often overlooked) issues that can affect your roof in our coastal, wooded, and weather-variable region:

Salt Air and Coastal Winds

If you live near the Atlantic Ocean or Chesapeake Bay—or even a few miles inland—you’re probably already familiar with the effects of salt air on your car or outdoor furniture. That same salty moisture can corrode roofing materials over time, especially metal components like flashing, nails, gutters, and vents. Coastal winds, even when they’re not hurricane-force, can also lift shingles or blow debris across rooftops, causing wear and tear that might not be noticeable from the ground.

Pine Needles and Tree Debris

In more wooded parts of Hampton Roads—like parts of Chesapeake, Suffolk, and even some neighborhoods in Virginia Beach and Portsmouth—pine needles and other tree debris can be a real issue. Pine needles may seem harmless, but when they accumulate on a roof, they can trap moisture against shingles, leading to mold, mildew, and even rot. They also clog gutters quickly, which prevents proper water runoff and can result in leaks or damage to your fascia and soffit over time.

Extreme Temperature Swings

We may not have the harsh winters of New England or the Midwest, but Hampton Roads does see its share of extreme temperature swings—from hot and humid summers in the 90s to occasional winter days that dip below freezing. Sometimes we even see these swings in the course of a single day! These fluctuations can cause roofing materials to expand and contract repeatedly, weakening seals, loosening shingles, and reducing the lifespan of your roof. Older roofs in particular are more susceptible to this kind of damage.

High Humidity and Moisture

Let’s face it—southeast Virginia is humid. That constant moisture in the air can be rough on a roof, especially if it’s not properly ventilated. High humidity can contribute to the growth of algae, moss, and mold on shingles, which not only looks bad but can also degrade roofing materials over time. If you’ve noticed black streaks or green patches on your roof, moisture-loving organisms might be to blame.

Poor Installation or Aging Materials

Not all roof problems come from the environment. Sometimes we see damage simply because the original installation wasn’t done correctly, or the materials used weren’t appropriate for our coastal climate. Even a well-installed roof will eventually reach the end of its life. In this region, the combination of weather and environmental factors can sometimes mean a shorter lifespan than in other parts of the country.

Andrews Roofing Can Help

The best way to protect your real estate investment is to stay informed and stay proactive. Regular inspections and maintenance can help catch small issues before they become big (and expensive) problems. If you’re not sure what shape your roof is in—or if it’s time to start thinking about repairs or replacement—we’re always happy to offer honest, local advice from folks who live and work in the same communities you do. Contact your neighbors at Andrews Roofing today.

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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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