Leaks & Service Repairs

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Reroof Estimates & Inspections

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Tag: estimator

What to Look for in a Residential Roofing Contractor

Your roof is obviously a critical component of your home’s structure, and having a new roof installed is a major investment. Even small roofing repairs are important to the integrity of your home. That’s why choosing a roofing contractor shouldn’t be a decision that is taken lightly.

You Get What You Pay For

This is the first thing to keep in mind. It’s typical and understandable of homeowners to be looking for the best price, but be wary of an estimate that is significantly lower than what you’ve researched or than what other contractors have quoted you. As with most things, you get what you pay for with roofing, and a cheap job equals cheap materials, inexperienced labor, bad project management or nonexistent customer service. Your roof is an investment and if you invest in quality, it will likely be the only time you’ll ever need to do it.

Licensed and Insured

We cannot stress how important it is to ensure that your roofing contractor is licensed and insured. There’s a reason you aren’t going to try to tackle reroofing your home yourself and that’s because it can be a dangerous job. Reputable roofing companies will not only have the proper safety equipment, tools and training, they’ll also have insurance on all their employees in case anyone is hurt on the job. They will be licensed and will be able to provide proof of this. They will also file for all appropriate permits required in your city or county. If these things aren’t handled properly by the roofing company, you could be held liable for injuries or work that isn’t to code.

Get It in Writing

When having any work done other than smaller service-related repairs, make sure that everything about your roofing job is put in writing in a contract agreement. This includes price, timeline, warranties or guarantees, materials, safety procedures and liability, clean up methods, and financing terms if applicable.  Having a well-written contract protects both you and the contractor and assures that everyone is on the same page about the project.

Warranties and Guarantees

When having a new roof installed, there should be warranties for the materials themselves. Product manufacturers, depending on the type and grade of roofing materials selected, will provide a limited warranty anywhere from one year to a lifetime. Make sure the roofing company you engage goes over the warranties for the materials you choose in detail. However, a reputable roofing contractor will also offer a guarantee on their own work. At Andrews Roofing we provide our clients with a workmanship warranty for up to ten years on new installations.

Reputation is Key

Do your research on the companies from whom you’re getting quotes. Look at their website, review sites and ask around your neighborhood. Has the company been in business for awhile? While all businesses have to start somewhere, it is ideal to hire a company that has been working in your area for long enough to have earned a good reputation.

Locally Owned

A locally-owned company is also a plus, as they will know the issues and best practices for your specific location. In Hampton Roads, it’s critical to engage a roofing company that understands the issues that can arise from hurricanes, nor’easters, humidity and salt air. A local company can provide the best advice for your specific situation, but they will also be working hard to maintain and uphold their local reputation. This is their community also, after all.

Andrews Roofing Can Help

Andrews Roofing has been providing quality roof replacements and repairs to the residents of Hampton Roads cities for over two decades. Our reputation and breadth of work speaks for itself. We care deeply about our community, which is why we handle each project and client with the utmost respect and guarantee our work for ten years. We’re licensed and insured and you’ll always get the details of your project in writing before we begin work. We’d be happy to provide you with a free estimate roof replacement, so contact us today.

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Common Maintenance Steps for Your Commercial Flat Roof

A flat roof is an excellent option for a commercial roof. Not only is it long lasting, but it can also hold your commercial air conditioners and other utilities. Make the most of your investment and prevent emergency repairs by following these common maintenance steps.

Trim Surrounding Trees

Nearby trees can increase the risk of damage to your flat roof. Not only can a tree or a limb potentially fall on your commercial building, but falling leaves and increased shade can reduce the lifespan of your roof. Have a professional trim back trees before they damage your flat roof.

Prevent Pooling Water

Flat roofs still need to efficiently drain water. Pooling water on your flat roof can slowly leak into your building. Be sure to clear off any standing water on your commercial roof and have a professional check for adequate drainage. Large amounts of water may have already compromised your roof, so consider hiring a professional to safely remove standing water.

If pooled water does start to leak through your flat roof, you need to address the leak immediately. Hire a professional roofing team to inspect the damage and provide a safe, effective patch to prevent further water damage.

Clear Off Debris

Twigs, leaves, and other debris may not seem like a major issue on your flat roof, but over time all this debris can retain moisture and encourage pooling. Prevent water pooling and other flat roof damage by routinely clearing off your commercial flat roof.

Hire a Professional Inspector and Maintenance Team

The best way to maintain your commercial flat roof is to invest in routine inspection and maintenance services. Some issues are difficult to spot without experience working with flat roofs, so contact Andrews Roofing today to receive a comprehensive inspection. Discuss any maintenance issues and discover how you can save money and avoid a complete flat roof replacement with proper maintenance. Call 757-296-0553 or email us today to learn more!

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The Basics of a Residential Roof Replacement Project

Letting professionals handle your roof replacement project means putting the protection of your home into someone else’s hands. Understanding what a roof replacement entails, may help put your mind at ease. The following are some basics.

The Materials Used

You no doubt want the highest quality materials used for your home, but you may not know what those are. Speaking with your residential roofer about the options available can help you make that decision. Some materials commonly used for home roofs include asphalt composition shingles, metal roofing, wood shakes, and slate roofing. These materials come in different colors as well, so you can match a variety of exterior home features to your roof.

The Professionals Doing the Job

One thing you don’t want to do is trust the job to someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. Contacting a professional residential roofer will ensure the job will be done correctly and last a long time. You want a company that does what they say they’ll do, as well as exceeding your expectations. Look for a roofing company with a great reputation that hires roofing professionals and ensures they are properly trained. With all these components pulled together, your roof will get done correctly.

The Cost of the Project

The cost of your residential roof replacement project will depend on the size of the job, the materials used, and the pitch of the roof. Speak with your roofer about the specifics of the job to truly understand what you’ll be expected to pay by the end. If the cost doesn’t work with your budget, you can work out a different arrangement beforehand to ensure you receive a nice roof within your price range.

Getting Started

Understanding a few basics of residential roof replacement can get you ready to face the project head on. Contact Andrews Roofing at 757-296-0553 to get your roof replacement scheduled.

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5 Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Your Commercial Roof

While the life expectancy of a commercial roof is anywhere from 10 to 40 years, there are several factors that can affect how long it lasts. Pay attention to these five factors to extend your roof’s lifespan and save money by avoiding unnecessary repairs or having to replace your roof prematurely.

Installation

When having your roof installed, make sure to choose a reputable company that is licensed and experienced in installing commercial roofs. An improperly installed roof can cause a large variety of problems including sagging and leaking.

Roofing System

The quality and types of materials used to build your roof will have a direct effect on how long it will last. While TPO or EPDM roof systems have a life expectancy of 22 to 35 years, an asphalt or metal roof can last up to 45.

Weather

While you certainly can’t control the weather, extreme weather conditions like rain, wind, and snow can take a toll on your roof. Even extremely sunny weather all year long can be problematic. Take the proper precautions to prepare for storms and inspect your roof whenever harsh weather hits.

Maintenance

All roofs are subject to wear and tear and will need to be properly maintained to last as long as possible. Perform routine inspections on your roof and quickly address any leaks you find. Replace damaged or missing shingles immediately and clean off any debris or algae growth.

Proper Ventilation

Excessive heat can cause damage your roof and quickly cut years off its life. Ensure that your roof and building is properly ventilated and insulated to help keep your roof cool. Not to mention, a well-insulated building will keep the interior nice and comfortable and help lower utility bills.

Inspecting your roof to make sure it is in the best condition is worth the time and money you will save down the road. Choose Andrews Roofing to install your roof and make any repairs you might need. Call us today at 757-296-0553!

 

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3 Benefits of Replacing Your Commercial Roof

When it comes time to replace your commercial roof due to age or extensive damage, it’s easy to focus on the financial burden of the replacement. While you may not realize it, there are actually several reasons why investing in a new roof can make your company more money in the long run. Here are three great benefits of having a new roof installed on your building.

  1. Attract Customers

Customers and passersby will notice if you have an old roof that needs replacing. However, a brand new roof will enhance the overall appearance of your building and attract new customers to your business. Additionally, existing customers will continue going to your business when they see that you care to put time and money into your property. This will allow you to build trust with customers and give them an idea of the quality of service they can expect from your business.

  1. Increase Energy Efficiency

Installing a new roof made from high-quality materials can save your company money in utility bills. There are many energy-efficient roofing materials to choose from that are able to reflect solar energy or provide greater insulation. These roofing materials will allow you to spend less money on heating and cooling, as less air will escape through your roof. Additionally, you’ll increase customer and employee satisfaction by keeping them comfortably cool in the summers and warm in the winters.

  1. Avoid Repairs

Continuously making repairs to your roof adds up in cost, and in the end, you’ll save more money by simply replacing a worn roof. Additionally, delaying a necessary replacement can result in leaks and damage to the interior of your building. If your commercial roof is showing obvious signs of damage or deterioration, it’s best to replace your roof immediately.

When it comes time to replace your roof, don’t trust just anybody. Contact Andrews Roofing today at 757-296-0553 for a roofing company you can trust.

 

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Top 10 Roof Problems

The health of your roof is crucial to the integrity of your home. Knowing the 10 most common roofing problems can help you to catch the damage early enough to make adequate repairs. Here are the most notable problems.

Roof Leaks

Your roof has to handle the elements. Rain, snow, hail and wind may lead to moisture inside the roof. If this happens, rot and mold are the next step.

Faulty Installation

A badly installed roof leads to bigger problems. If you want your roof to have a long lifespan, it needs to be installed up to standards and by a professional.

Critter Infestations

Small birds and animals may cause a lot of damage to your roof. If you have an animal infestation, you want to take care of it as soon as possible.

Poorly Installed Flashing

Flashing seals areas such as vent pipes, chimneys, skylights. When flashing is not installed properly, it leads to open seams and blown off tiles.

Pooling Water

If water pools on your roof, this problem normally arises from debris buildup or from HVAC units that don’t properly drain. It may also be due to gutter problems.

Ventilation Problems

Ventilation regulates temperature and moisture levels. Ventilation problems lead to costly energy bills and mildew issues.

Shrinkage or Blistering

The roof membrane may shrink and cause cracks in the upper layer. Watch for blistering, splitting and surface erosion.

Overhanging Limbs

Tree limbs may rub the surface and wear away at the top layer of your shingles. Trim your tree limbs back as much as possible. No tree should be a threat to your home.

Improper Maintenance

Your roof needs checking regularly. With proper maintenance, you can control any problems that occur to your roof.

When it comes to taking care of your roof, it’s crucial that you know the most common problems. The more that you know, the easier it will be to ensure that your roof lasts. Contact Andrews Roofing today at 757-296-0553 for help with your roofing needs.

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