Roof Leak – Andrews Roofing

By Andrews Roofing | November 14, 2024

Tags: backed up gutters, clogged downspouts, Clogged Gutters, clogged gutters roof damage, cracked shingles, fall roof preparedness, falling debris on roof, hotspot on shingles, mold and mildew, pine straw, roof falling debris, Roof valleys, sidewall, step flashing, weak shingles

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Residential Roofing, Roof Flashing, Roof Leak, Roof Maintenance

Don’t Let Fall Get Your Roof Down

We’ve been doing business in Southeast Virginia for decades, which means we know very well that the seasonal beauty of fall comes with a fair share of potential roofing headaches.

Leaves, pine straw, and other debris may look harmless, but they can cause significant roofing issues if left to accumulate in key areas like valleys, gutters, downspouts, and sidewalls. Here’s a closer look at why these buildups can lead to bigger problems and what kinds of repairs you might need if they’re not properly addressed.

Valleys: The Perfect Catch-All

Roof valleys are especially prone to catching and holding onto leaves, pine needles, and other debris. These areas naturally channel water off the roof, so when clogged, water can’t flow properly. The buildup creates the perfect breeding ground for mold, moss, and mildew, leading to water pooling and potential leaks.

Repairs You May Need: If not cleared, debris buildup in valleys can lead to rotting shingles or underlayment, causing leaks and water damage. Left unchecked, this might require a complete valley reinstallation, including shingle replacement and underlayment repair.

Gutters and Downspouts: The First Line of Defense

Leaves and pine straw are notorious for clogging gutters and downspouts, causing water to back up. Especially in the fall, we see a lot of clogged gutters that can lead to roof and structural damage. When water can’t flow freely, it pools in gutters, and the overflow can back up into and under roofing materials, down into walls and eventually into your home’s foundation, which is a costly problem.

Repairs You May Need: Prolonged water overflow can damage fascia boards and soffits, leading to wood rot and, in extreme cases, structural weakening. In some cases, you may need gutter realignment or replacement, downspout extensions, or even partial fascia board replacement.

Sidewalls: An Overlooked Vulnerability

When debris builds up where the roof meets a wall, called the sidewall or step flashing, it can trap moisture. Pine straw and leaves left to rot here create a hidden damp area that erodes flashing over time, opening up the roof to leaks and seepage.

Repairs You May Need: Damaged flashing can lead to leaks that seep into walls, requiring not only flashing replacement but also repairs to affected shingles, woodwork, and insulation.

Roof Shingles: Your Shield Against the Elements

Though shingles are designed to protect your roof, heavy debris can compromise their effectiveness. Leaves and pine straw hold moisture, which can create “hotspots” on shingles, weakening them and promoting mold and mildew growth. In some cases, the weight of accumulated debris on weaker or older shingles can cause cracking or even partial shingle detachment.

Repairs You May Need: Minor issues might require shingle replacement or moss and mold treatment. However, if left untreated, the accumulation can lead to more extensive repairs, like partial reroofing to address compromised shingles and underlayment.

Our Tips for Preventing Roofing Problems in the Fall

Regular Gutter Cleaning.
Clear gutters and downspouts at least twice during the fall. If you have a lot of trees nearby, consider installing gutter guards.
Roof Valleys Maintenance.
Clear valleys of debris regularly to prevent buildup and water retention. To do so, use a roof rake or hire a professional – never get on a ladder and attempt to do this yourself.
Sidewall and Flashing Checkups.
Inspect sidewalls and flashing areas (from the ground) whenever you’re working outside around your house or at least once a month to ensure there are no areas of accumulation.
Professional Inspection.
Schedule a fall inspection with a trusted roofing professional who can catch and address minor issues before they lead to costly repairs.

Andrews Roofing Can Help

The cooler months ahead provide the perfect opportunity to prepare for winter by addressing any potential fall-related roofing issues. If you’re concerned about your roof’s condition, or just want to ensure your investment lasts for a long time to come, contact Andrews Roofing today. We’re here to ensure your home stays dry, safe, and ready to handle the Southeast Virginia weather all year long.

By bc-admin | September 5, 2024

Tags: autumn roof preparedness, fall roof preparedness, freeze thaw cycle, gutter clogs, ice dams, moisture build up in attic and roof, roof falling debris, roof uplift, roof uv damage, roof water leak, roof wind damage, shingle loss, snow load, thermal expansion and contraction of shingles

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.

By Andrews Roofing | May 13, 2024

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Chimney Leak, Rapid Rain Gutter System, Roof Flashing, Roof Leak, Roof Maintenance

DIY Roof Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, protecting it from the elements day in and day out.

Regular maintenance can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs down the road. For serious roof repairs, a professional roofing contractor should be called in, as the work requires expertise and can be dangerous for a weekend DIYer. However, there are some essential roof maintenance tips that homeowners can do safely on their own to prevent damage and decay.

Make Inspections a Habit
Create a regular monthly or seasonal habit of visually inspecting your roof. You can time it with Easter, July 4th, Halloween and Christmas to make it easy to remember. Look for signs of damage such as missing or damaged shingles, cracked caulking, or rust spots on metal roofs. While we do not recommend tackling those repairs yourself, the earlier you identify them and get a professional involved, the less damage (and cost) you will incur.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage and roof leaks. Clear them of debris like leaves and branches to ensure proper drainage. This is especially important as fall winds down and again in the spring before summer storms begin. If you feel comfortable, you can use a ladder and gloves to remove the buildup manually, but always have someone nearby to steady the ladder and assist as needed. You may also want to invest in gutter guards for easier maintenance.

Trim Overhanging Branches
Overhanging branches from nearby trees on your property can scratch and damage your roof during windy conditions. Trim back any branches that come into contact with your roof to prevent this from happening. It will also reduce the risk of fallen branches causing severe damage during storms. If the branches or trees are very large, you don’t have the required tools or simply don’t feel comfortable tackling this yourself, call in a professional tree service, who can take care of it quickly and safely.

Check for Signs of Water Damage
Water stains on your ceiling or walls are clear indicators of a roof leak. If you notice any signs of water damage inside your home, inspect your roof immediately to identify the source of the leak. This can be done safely by inspecting your roof from your attic. Look for damp spots and moisture on the underside of the roof deck and even eroded insulation. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent mold growth and structural damage.

Repair Flashing
Flashing is the thin metal strips installed around roof penetrations such as chimneys, vents, and skylights to prevent water infiltration. Inspect the flashing for signs of damage or deterioration and repair or replace it as needed. Properly sealed flashing is essential for maintaining a watertight roof, and flashing damage is often the cause of a leak, rather than the roofing materials.

Andrews Roofing Can Help
Regular roof maintenance is essential for preserving the integrity of your home and avoiding costly repairs. By following these DIY roof maintenance tips, you can prolong the lifespan of your roof and ensure it continues to protect your home for years to come. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working on your roof, so always take the necessary precautions and if a task ever feels like more than you can handle, contact Andrews Roofing. We handle all sizes of roof repairs as well as replacements. Our estimators can come out to your house and discuss the best approach to prolonging the life of your home’s roof.

By Andrews Roofing | February 8, 2024

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Architectural Shingles, Chimney Leak, Flat Roof, Rapid Rain Gutter System, Residential Roofing, Roof Flashing, Roof Installation, Roof Leak, Roofing Information, Skylight

Shopping for a new house? Don’t forget to look up!

When potential home buyers are house shopping, they tend to focus on a home’s interior features, its location, neighborhood, and general curb appeal.

But one thing you should never overlook in a listing is a home’s roof. As an essential structural component of any home, a roof is one of the largest investments owners can make. In today’s cut-throat, competitive housing market, buyers are often willing to waive home inspections to have their offer considered over others. But this is never a good idea – buying a home without knowing about the condition of its roof is a risk that could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.

So, what should you look for as you leaf through those listings? Here are just a few considerations for prospective homebuyers when evaluating a property’s roof.

Age: The age of a roof can tell you a lot and is perhaps the most important fact to know about it in advance. An older roof may be nearing the end of its lifespan and could require costly repairs or replacement soon. Look for signs of wear and tear such as missing or damaged shingles, sagging areas, or water stains on the ceiling. If the listing doesn’t say the roof’s age, have your real estate agent inquire about it.
Material: Different roofing materials have varying lifespans, maintenance requirements, and durability. Most commonly in the Hampton Roads region you’ll see architectural asphalt shingles. But there are also metal roofs, clay tile, wood shake, and even synthetic recycled materials. Consider our local climate and what makes the most sense for your lifestyle and the home’s location when assessing roofing materials and whether you’re ready to take on their care.
Leaks and Water Damage: Water damage can lead to extensive structural issues and mold growth. During a home inspection, carefully examine the interior ceilings, walls, and attic for any signs of water stains, mold, or mildew. Additionally, look for evidence of leaks around skylights, chimneys, vents, and flashings. All of these things can point to a roof that at best needs repairs and at worst needs to be completely replaced.
Gutters and Drainage: Proper slope and drainage is essential for preventing water from pooling on a roof and causing damage – this is especially important in low slope or flat roofs. Likewise, gutters keep water from running off the roof and toward the foundation of a house, causing water damage that can affect a home’s overall structure. Inspect the gutters and downspouts for debris buildup, corrosion, or damage. Ensure that they are securely attached and effectively channel water away from the foundation of the house.
Ventilation: Adequate attic ventilation helps regulate temperature and moisture levels, prolonging the lifespan of the roof and preventing issues like ice dams and mold growth. Check for vents along the eaves, ridge, and soffits, and ensure they are clear of obstructions. Improper ventilation can not only reduce the lifespan of a roof, but also dramatically increase your utility bills.
Previous Repairs or Replacements: Inquire about any past roof repairs or replacements and obtain documentation if available. A well-maintained roof with a history of regular inspections and maintenance is sure to be in better condition than one that hasn’t. A roof that was recently replaced likely has material or workmanship warranties. Having the information about that is critical in case you need to make a future claim.
Professional Inspection: While an initial visual assessment of the roof is something you can do yourself while touring a home, hiring a qualified roofing contractor or home inspector for a thorough evaluation is highly recommended. They can identify hidden issues, assess the overall condition of the roof, and provide insights into potential maintenance or repair costs. Don’t skip this step!

Andrews Roofing Can Help
If you’re in the process of purchasing a new home in the Tidewater area and you’d like a professional roof inspection done by a licensed roofing contractor, contact Andrews Roofing. We can give you the peace of mind that your investment is a solid one and keep you from financial heartache down the road.

By Andrews Roofing | December 7, 2023

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Chimney Leak, Commercial Roofing, Rapid Rain Gutter System, Residential Roofing, Roof Flashing, Roof Insulation, Roof Leak, Roof Maintenance, Roofing Information

Winter Roof Prep

The temperatures are dropping, Christmas lights are popping up, and the days seem to end before they even begin – winter is here. That also means it’s a crucial time of year to prepare your home for the colder weather. Your roof may need some special attention in particular to ensure your home’s safety and comfort over the next few months since it’s the first line of defense against snow, ice, and those dropping temperatures. Here are a few handy tips for getting your roof winter ready.

The first step is always to perform a visual inspection from both the outside and inside of your home. Look for damaged, loose or missing shingles, loose flashing, cracks around pipe collars or areas of moisture or drafts in your attic. Identifying these potential issues first is critical for how to move forward with your winter prep.

During your inspection, you should also check in on your gutters and downspouts. If they’re full from all those falling leaves, it’s time to give them a good cleaning. If gutters are clogged, a heavy rain followed by dropping temperatures can cause your gutters to produce an ice dam, which can cause serious damage to your roof, the gutters themselves and the interior of your home. You may also want to consider installing larger, high capacity gutters and/or gutter guards to prevent future build ups and issues.

Inside your home, inspect your attic carefully, as roofing issues are often easier to spot from this point of view. Damp areas may indicate a leak in the roof or condensation build up from lack of ventilation. Heavy air drafts can also point to punctures or damaged areas. While you’re there, take note of your attic’s insulation – if your home is older, it may be time to replace or add new insulation to keep your home’s temperature consistent, which reduces condensation and your heating and cooling costs.

If you have a wood burning fireplace and chimney, then hopefully you are having it inspected and cleaned at the beginning of the winter season as well. This is a good time to ask your chimney specialist to take note of the flashing around your chimney. Loose or missing flashing around a chimney can cause major structural damage over time, but avoiding this is an easy fix that’s far less expensive than the potential damage it could cause.

Although we don’t get snow very often here in Hampton Roads, when we do, any accumulation can put a strain on your roof. Roof rakes can be used to remove built up snow, which can be especially stubborn on the north side of your roof where the sunlight is less likely to melt it away.

The final winter prep tip isn’t about your roof, but your landscaping. Check the trees and vegetation around your home’s roofline. If there are any branches that are overhanging your roof, brushing up against your gutters or scraping at shingles, they will inevitably cause damage, especially when severe winter weather arrives. Trimming back trees, removing overhanging brush or vines can help prevent problems before they happen.

If you have any concerns about your roof’s winter weather readiness, contact Andrews Roofing today to schedule a roof inspection. One of our experienced roofing specialists can let you know if there are any issues that can be easily handled and repaired before extreme weather hits. Doing so will ensure your comfort and your peace of mind this season.

By Andrews Roofing | October 5, 2023

Tags: algae on roof, damaged flashing, falling debris on roof, falling limb on roof, flashing damage, hurricane roof damage, limb on roof, moss on roof, nor'easter roof damage, overhanging limbs roof, storm related gutter damage, storm related roof damage, tree over roof, tropical storm roof damage, wildlife in attic

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

What Tree Trimming Has to Do With Your Home’s Health

That beautiful tree in your backyard that provides shade in the summer, fragrant blooms in the spring, vivid colors in the fall, and maybe even holds a swing or treehouse for your kids could also be damaging your home without you knowing it.

When trees are not properly managed and maintained, they pose a significant risk to your home’s roof health. And that risk isn’t just sudden, storm-related damage. Even without a storm or major weather event, trees can take a toll on your roof over time in subtle ways. But there are ways to mitigate this damage, particularly for homes battling the specific environment and severe weather of southeast Virginia.

How Trees Affect Roofs

Falling Debris
Falling leaves, branches, pine needles and twigs are common culprits when it comes to roof damage caused by trees in Hampton Roads. A few leaves or needles here and there may seem harmless, but over time they can accumulate on your roof, leading to clogged gutters, water pooling, and damage to shingles and flashing.
Moss and Algae Growth
Trees can create shaded and damp areas on your roof, providing an ideal environment for moss and algae growth. This is especially true in the humid and often damp climate in the Tidewater Region. Over time, moss and algae can compromise the structural integrity of your roofing materials.
Wildlife
Trees are often home to a variety of wildlife including squirrels, birds and even racoons or possums. If the trees they inhabit are close enough to your house, these critters can find their way onto your roof and potentially create entry points or damage the roofing materials while searching for shelter or food. For instance, it’s not uncommon in Hampton Roads for small birds to build nests in open gutters during the spring season, creating serious clogs when summer storms hit. Roof rats and other pests are also common during the cold or wet months.
Falling Limbs or a Tree
Of course, the most obvious source of tree-related damage to a roof is by limbs falling off during storms or strong winds. In our hurricane, tropical storm and nor’easter-prone region, this is especially common. During any one of these types of weather events (or even just a summer pop up thunderstorm) overhanging tree limbs can break and fall onto your roof, causing serious damage by knocking off gutters or flashing, puncturing shingles or even the roof decking below, which can lead to more extensive structural damage. There is the rare occasion when an entire tree comes down and, hopefully hits nothing, or it does hit something.

What You Can Do to Prevent Tree-Related Roof Damage

Identify Tree Rot
The most likely offender in the forest is a tree with any kind of rot. Tree rot can happen for a variety of reasons: damage from storms, animals or disease, but trees that are dead or dying also invite in termites, which are certain to finish the job, causing a tree to lose any structural integrity it had left. By inspecting the trees on and around your property regularly, you can identify rot early and either call in a professional arborist who can assist in removing the affected portions of the tree while saving the rest or a tree removal company if the damage is too far along.
Remove or Trim Encroaching Trees
Even if trees are healthy, they can still create an unsafe situation if they begin to encroach on your home’s immediate perimeter. Pruning and trimming trees near your home is essential, because even if a limb or debris doesn’t come flying off, consistent contact between a tree and your roof can cause its own kind of damage. This is often seen in loose gutters and loose or missing shingles. Again, consult with a professional arborist and/or tree trimming company to remedy this.
Keep Gutters Clear
Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent debris accumulation and water damage. Clogged gutterscan lead to water overflow, which can damage your roof, siding, and foundation.
Install Gutter Guards
Consider installing high capacity gutters and gutter guards to prevent leaves and debris from entering your gutters. High quality gutters and leaf guards can be a valuable investment in maintaining your roof’s health.
Don’t Forget the Flashing
Properly installed flashing around roof penetrations, such as chimneys or vents, can help protect your roof from water intrusion due to tree-related damage. A roof specialist can inspect your roof to ensure flashing is properly installed and that existing flashing is not damaged, loose or missing.

While the variety of trees in coastal Virginia can enhance the beauty and value of your property, it’s essential to be mindful of their potential to damage your home’s roof. Regular maintenance, including tree trimming, gutter cleaning, and roof inspections, is key to preventing costly roof repairs. By taking proactive steps to protect your roof, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of having trees on your property without worrying about the potential damage they may cause. Your home and roof will thank you for it in the long run.

We Can Help

If you’ve experienced damage to your roof from trees or other causes, Andrews Roofing can help. We’ve been providing reputable, high-quality roofing services in the Hampton Roads region for decades, and we’re familiar with the specific issues that arise in this area. We can help you not just repair your roof, but also identify and fix potential problems so your roof and home remain healthy long after our work is done. Contact us today.

Category: Roof Leak

Don’t Let Fall Get Your Roof Down

How Hampton Roads Weather Affects Your Home’s Roof

DIY Roof Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Shopping for a new house? Don’t forget to look up!

Winter Roof Prep

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