Leaks & Service Repairs

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

Reroof Estimates & Inspections

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

Get a Quote

Leaks & Service Repairs

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

Reroof Estimates & Inspections

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

Tag: roof inspection

  1. Homepage
  2. roof inspection
By |
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Comments are closedComments are closed
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!

read more
By |
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Comments are closedComments are closed
Category: Andrews Roofing, Roof Damage, Roof Insurance Claim

Should You Make an Insurance Claim for Your Roof Damage?

In Southeast Virginia and the Hampton Roads region, roofs can take a serious beating.

Between strong coastal winds, heavy rain, tropical storm systems, and intense summer heat and humidity, it’s common for homeowners to discover roof damage and wonder if it’s just normal aging—or something that should be covered by insurance.

It’s a common homeowner question that we encounter: “Should I file an insurance claim for this?” Knowing the difference between everyday wear and tear and storm-related roof damage can help you avoid unnecessary claims, out-of-pocket expenses, and frustration with your insurance provider. Here’s how you can tell the difference—and what to do next.

Normal Roof Wear and Tear: What Insurance Typically Does Not Cover

Roofing materials naturally age over time, especially in the coastal climate of Southeast Virginia. Insurance companies generally do not cover damage caused by gradual, natural deterioration or lack of maintenance. Common examples of normal wear and tear include:

  • Aging or brittle shingles that are near the end of their lifespan
  • Granule loss on asphalt shingles, typically from age and long-term sun exposure
  • Faded or discolored roofing materials
  • Minor cracking or curling that are age-related/typical
  • Small leaks caused by age—not a specific weather event

If your roof is 20–30 years old and showing these signs, it’s usually considered a maintenance or replacement issue rather than an insurable loss. In these cases, planning a roof replacement before major leaks develop is often the smartest move.

When Roof Damage May Be Covered by Insurance

Insurance typically applies when roof damage is caused by a sudden, identifiable event, such as severe weather. In Hampton Roads, this often means wind, hail, or tropical systems.

Roof damage that may warrant an insurance claim includes:

  • Missing, torn, or lifted shingles after high winds
  • Hail damage, including bruised or cracked shingles
  • Impact damage from fallen tree limbs or debris
  • Leaks that appear shortly after a storm
  • Damage from hurricanes, tropical storms, or tornadoes

If roof issues show up immediately after a major storm—or you notice similar damage throughout your neighborhood—it’s a good sign that the damage may be insurable.

Step One: Get a Professional Roof Inspection

Before filing a roof damage insurance claim, it’s important to schedule a professional roof inspection with a licensed roofing contractor that is local to the Hampton Roads region and knows our local weather as well as the local insurance providers. A trained roofer can determine whether the damage is storm-related or simply age-related. The inspection should:

  • Identify visible and hidden storm damage you may not be able to see from the ground
  • Document findings with photos and written notes which can be submitted to your claims agent
  • Provide a detailed repair or replacement estimate to give a “second opinion” to the insurance adjustor’s estimate
  • Help you decide whether filing a claim makes financial sense at all

Step Two: Complete the Insurance Claim Process

If your roofing contractor determines the damage is likely covered, here’s how the process typically works:

  1. File a Claim with Your Insurance Company. You’ll contact your insurer and provide details about the storm or event that caused the damage. This is where the information from the roof inspection will come in especially handy.
  2. Meet with the Insurance Adjuster. An adjuster inspects your roof and evaluates the damage. Your contractor can often be present to ensure nothing is overlooked.
  3. Review the Insurance Estimate. The insurance company provides an estimate outlining approved repairs or replacement, minus your deductible. You may want to have your contractor review the estimate to ensure nothing was overlooked or underquoted.
  4. Complete Roof Repairs or Replacement. Once approved, your contractor completes the work according to the claim’s scope, providing any necessary documentation for your insurance company.

Step Three: Keep It Local

Having an experienced Hampton Roads roofing contractor involved helps ensure the insurance estimate reflects the full extent of the damage as well as the cost of local labor — not just what’s immediately visible or generic.

While not every roofing issue requires an insurance claim, ignoring any type of roof damage – storm-related or otherwise, can lead to much larger problems, including interior water damage and mold. If you’re unsure whether your roof damage is normal wear or something insurance should cover, Andrews Roofing is here to help you make an informed decision. Contact us today for a professional inspection, clear documentation, and support throughout the insurance claims process —without pressure or guesswork.

read more
By |
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Comments are closedComments are closed
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.

read more
By |
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Comments are closedComments are closed
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.

read more
By |
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Comments are closedComments are closed
Category: Andrews Roofing, Residential Roofing, Roof Installation, Roof Warranty, Roofing Information

Step by Step: The Process of Replacing Your Roof

Replacing your home’s roof is a significant investment and can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time going through the process.

As a small, local roofing company, we understand the apprehensions homeowners in the Hampton Roads region might have, especially when it comes to budget, timeline and impact on your daily life. We’re here to provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to expect during your roof replacement journey, ensuring you feel informed and confident every step of the way.

Step One: Initial Consultation and Inspection

When you first contact us, we’ll schedule a convenient time for an initial consultation. This is a great opportunity for you to discuss your concerns, preferences, and budget. We’ll listen carefully to understand your needs and provide you with tailored advice.

Our team will conduct a detailed inspection of your current roof. This helps us identify any underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as leaks, damaged shingles, or structural problems. We use this information to create an accurate estimate and a comprehensive plan for the replacement.

Step Two: Detailed Estimate and Planning

Following the inspection, we’ll provide you with a detailed estimate that outlines the costs involved. Our estimates are transparent, with no hidden fees, ensuring you know exactly what to expect financially.

We’ll guide you through the process of selecting the right materials for your new roof. Whether you prefer asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or another material, we’ll explain the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision that stays within your budget.

Step Three: Scheduling and Preparation

We know a home improvement project of this size can have a significant impact on your daily life. As a small, local business we take the individual concerns of our clients seriously and do our best to provide personalized service at every step. We’ll work with you to schedule the roof replacement at a time that minimizes disruption to your family and schedule.

Before we begin, we’ll take steps to protect your property. This includes covering landscaping, setting up safety measures, ensuring that the work area is secure, and that you have easy access to your home.

Step Four: The Roof Replacement Process

On the first day of the replacement, we’ll start by removing the old roofing materials. This can be noisy and messy, but we take care to keep the work area as clean and orderly as possible.

If we discover any issues with the roof deck or underlying structure, we’ll bring them to your attention and address them promptly. Fixing these problems is crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of your new roof. While fixing underlying issues may require additional cost, it is well worth it in the end to have the job done right and up to manufacturer standards so your warranty is protected.

With the old materials removed and any necessary repairs made, we’ll proceed with installing your new roof. Our skilled team of roofing professionals has decades of combined experience in the industry as well as working with issues specific to homes in the Tidewater region. They work efficiently and with precision to ensure a high-quality installation.

Step Five: Post-Installation and Cleanup

We understand that a clean worksite is important to you. After the installation is complete, we’ll conduct a thorough cleanup, removing any debris and ensuring your property is left in excellent condition.

Before we consider the job done, we’ll perform a final inspection to ensure every detail meets our high standards. We’ll walk you through the completed work, answering any questions you may have.

Step Six: Aftercare and Maintenance

Your new roof will come with a warranty, and we’ll explain the coverage in detail and provide any necessary paperwork or documentation. Additionally, we’re always available for any future questions or maintenance needs. As a local company, we’re just a phone call or click away.

We’ll also provide you with maintenance tips to help you keep your new roof in top condition. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your roof and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Go Local with Andrews Roofing

Choosing a small, local roofing company like ours means you’ll receive personalized service, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality that larger companies often can’t match. We take pride in our work and in serving our community, and we’re dedicated to ensuring your roof replacement experience is smooth and stress-free. If you’re ready to invest in a new roof for your home, contact Andrews Roofing today.

read more
By |
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Comments are closedComments are closed
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.

read more
© Andrews Roofing
Website built & maintained by Bull & Company MediaWorks