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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)

Tag: roof leak

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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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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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.

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Chimney Leak, Residential Roofing, Roof Flashing, Roof Installation, Roof Leak

Don’t Blame the Roof: Why Your Chimney May be the Cause of a Leak

Roof leaks are a homeowner’s nightmare, leading to potential damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. 

While many people associate roof leaks with damaged shingles or flashing, one often overlooked culprit is the chimney. Chimneys can be a source of significant water damage if not properly maintained. But how do you know whether your leak is coming from your roof or your chimney?

How Your Chimney Can Cause a Roof Leak:

  • Cracked or deteriorated chimney crown: The chimney crown is the concrete or cement layer at the top of the chimney. Over time, exposure to harsh weather conditions can cause it to crack or deteriorate, allowing water to seep into the masonry and eventually into the roof.
  • Damaged or missing chimney flashing: Flashing is the metal strip that seals the intersection between the chimney and the roof. If the flashing becomes damaged, improperly installed, or starts to deteriorate, it can create a pathway for water to enter the roof system.
  • Crumbling mortar joints: The mortar that holds the bricks or stones of the chimney together can deteriorate over time due to weathering. As the mortar crumbles, gaps and openings can form, permitting water infiltration into the roof.

How to Detect a Chimney-Related Roof Leak:

  • Internal signs: Look for water stains, peeling paint, or discoloration on ceilings or walls near the chimney. These are often indicators of a leak. Mold growth or musty odors may also be present.
  • Exterior signs: Inspect the chimney for cracks, crumbling masonry, or missing flashing. Pay attention to any signs of water pooling on the roof or around the chimney after a heavy rainfall.
  • Attic inspection: Check your attic for signs of water damage, such as damp insulation, water stains, or rotting wood near the chimney.

Taking Steps to Repair the Damage:

  • Consult a professional: If you suspect your chimney is causing a roof leak, it is crucial to contact a qualified roofing professional and/or chimney specialist. Depending on the damage you may need both specialists to come in and do repairs – especially if a chimney leak has caused damage to nearby areas of your roof.
  • Chimney crown repair: If the chimney crown is cracked or deteriorated, it should be repaired or replaced. A chimney professional can apply a waterproof sealant or construct a new crown to prevent water penetration.
  • Flashing replacement: Damaged or missing flashing should be replaced with new, properly installed flashing. This will ensure a secure seal between the chimney and the roof. A qualified roofing contractor can do this repair and in some cases a chimney repair company can as well.
  • Mortar joint repair: If the mortar joints are deteriorating, a process called tuckpointing can be performed. This involves removing the damaged mortar and replacing it with new mortar to restore the chimney’s integrity. This should only be done by an experienced chimney and masonry expert.
  • Regular maintenance: To prevent future leaks, schedule regular chimney inspections and maintenance. Keep the chimney free of debris, ensure proper ventilation, and consider applying a waterproofing sealant to protect against moisture.

While chimneys provide warmth and charm to our homes, they can also become a pesky source of roof leaks if neglected. Just like other functional and structural aspects of your home, pay attention to your chimney and visually inspect it regularly. If you think it may be causing any leaks or issues, contact a professional as soon as possible before further damage is done. By addressing chimney-related issues promptly, you can protect your home and preserve its structural integrity for years to come.

Andrews Roofing has been providing homeowners in Hampton Roads with sound roofing repair advice and services for over 25 years. If you’re not sure if your leak is coming from roof or chimney damage, contact us today. Our experts can provide an on-site inspection to help identify the issues and make a plan for repairs – whether we do them ourselves or refer you to a local chimney specialist.

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Commercial Roofing, Residential Roofing, Roof Leak, Roof Maintenance, Roofing Repairs

Is Your Roof Talking to You?

You’ve heard the saying “if these walls could talk” but did you know your roof really can talk to you?

No, your roof talking to you doesn’t mean you have a poltergeist, but it does mean you might have a major repair or replacement on your hands. The key is understanding the different forms of communication a house uses.

Remember, silence is golden. If a roof is in great shape with no issues, it’s likely to stay quiet. But when failure due to damage or age starts up, that’s when you’ll start to “hear” some moaning and groaning.

The first form of communication a failing roof will use is visual. Cracked, dry, brittle, or missing shingles is the first sign that a roof is reaching the end of its lifespan. Knowing when your roof was installed will, of course, help with determining if the time has come for a replacement based on materials used and their expected lifespan. If it’s just a couple of shingles showing wear, it may be possible that a small repair can extend the life of your roof a little longer. But if more than 5-10% of your roof is showing obvious signs of aging, it’s telling you that it’s time for a full replacement.

The second form of communication a roof will use is your energy bill. Have you seen a recent spike in how much energy you’re using each month? This could very well be because of an aging roof. Missing or deteriorated insulation, worn out shingles, damaged or decayed forms of ventilation can all cause your heating and cooling system to have to work harder, increasing your bills. Again, any one of these issues could be grounds for a professional repair, but add them all up together and a replacement is likely necessary.

The third, most obvious and more detrimental form of communication a roof can use is the leak. If you have a leak, there’s no doubt some form of repair or replacement is due. But pinpointing exactly where a leak is coming from and what type of failure is causing it can be difficult. A licensed and experienced roofing contractor should be called in immediately to assess the situation and provide some options. A minor leak doesn’t have to mean a total roof overhaul. Often leaks are caused by loose or missing flashing, a backed up gutter or a hole that is easily fixed. But sometimes the leak is simply a roof’s final message letting you know that its time has come to an end.

If you start hearing any of these messages from your roof, call in a licensed contractor to help you translate them and determine the best path forward. If repairs can be made to extend its life a few more years, it would be wise to take that length of time to start putting funds aside to pay for the eventual replacement. Roof replacements are a major investment, and no one wants to have to make that purchase suddenly and without warning.

At Andrews Roofing we are trained and experienced roof communicators. We’ve seen nearly every type of failure, repair and replacement scenario possible, which means we can give you the best advice and the most accurate estimates to help solve the problem. If you’re roof has started talking to you, contact us today.

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Commercial Roofing, Rapid Rain Gutter System, Residential Roofing, Roof Maintenance, Roofing Information

Four New Year’s Roofing Resolutions

It’s the beginning of a new year, and that means it’s time for resolutions.
Most New Year’s resolutions revolve around self-improvement, but the truth is, you’re great just the way you are. So instead, we suggest making some home-improvement resolutions that don’t require a scale, a short-lived gym membership, or eventual self-loathing. Here are a few that can improve not just your home, but your enjoyment of it as well.

Monthly Inspections
This resolution is easy to implement, only takes a few minutes and can help save your home from preventable damage. Once a month, do a visual inspection of the exterior of your home. Add it to your calendar, set a reminder on your phone, or whatever you use to keep track of recurring tasks.

From the outside of your house, walk the perimeter and look for any holes or damage to siding, loose flashing, loose or missing shingles, brittle or broken shingles, moisture around your foundation, debris that may have landed on your roof, mildew or algae buildup or anything else that seems out of place or damaged. From the inside, peek into your attic and make sure all the rafters and roof decking are dry, that the ventilation is working properly and that insulation is in place. Take a look out any windows that may give you a view of dormers or roofing valleys that aren’t visible from the ground.

If you spot any damage, take photos – especially if you believe the damage requires an insurance claim – and call in a licensed contractor to have a second look and give an estimate for repairs. Your visual inspection should only take a few minutes but could save you thousands of dollars and lots of headaches down the road. As they say in medicine, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Gutter Cleaning
Your monthly visual inspection may give you an idea of when your gutters need to be cleaned out, but you also may not be able to see all the debris in your gutters from the safety of the ground (which is the only place we recommend doing an inspection yourself). In Hampton Roads, the amount of foliage and storm debris increases the likelihood of needing a good gutter cleaning. While many websites and professionals will say cleaning your gutters twice a year is fine, we recommend once per season if you live in Southeast Virginia.

This year, resolve to have a professional gutter cleaning service come to your house every three months. You can schedule these cleanings in advance, so you don’t even have to think about it once you’ve made the initial call. The great thing about having a professional gutter cleaning is that it can reduce the likelihood of roof damage from water that builds up and pushes up under your roofing material when gutters are overfilled with debris. It also means there are professional eyes on your roof several times a year. A good cleaning company will alert you if they see any damage, debris or signs of aging that you should know about – all without you ever having to climb a ladder.

Make the Repairs
Maybe you already know your roof is in need of repairs. Perhaps you’ve seen the shingles fly off during a storm, or you can hear flashing or loose gutters banging around on a windy night. If so, then the new year is the perfect time to resolve to finally have it fixed.

Taking care of these types of repairs extends the life of your roof, saving you money and protecting your investment. A simple repair may have a small upfront cost, but in the long term it will be well worth it. Make sure to call in a professional, licensed roofing contractor to make the repairs. It may also be the case that the damage that needs to be repaired is under warranty, in which case you may not even have to pay out of pocket. If you think this is the case, find your original paperwork and reach out to the manufacturer or installer to make a claim.

New Year, New Roof
Lastly, if you know it’s time, then make this the year that you finally get that old roof replaced. Living under a roof that is past its recommended life span is just asking for trouble and interior damage that will not be covered by insurance. In the Tidewater region, the majority of residential roofs are asphalt shingles, which typically have a lifespan of 20-30 years. So, if your home was built before 1993 or if your home’s roof hasn’t been replaced since then, it’s likely time to make this a priority.

Roof replacements typically happen in the spring and fall, so if you know ahead of time that you will be needing a new roof this year, start vetting roofing companies now during the slower months. Gather several estimates and start researching your options for materials, colors, manufacturers, etc. Once you’ve made your decisions, get on your chosen roofing company’s installation schedule and get the materials ordered. Some materials are taking significantly longer to get in stock because of supply chain issues, so the sooner you can make your decisions and place orders, the better.

At Andrews Roofing we want to wish all of our Hampton Roads neighbors a beautiful, blessed 2023. If you find yourself in need of roofing repairs, replacements or inspections, we would be happy to help you determine the right course of action for your home so that you can enjoy it for many more years to come. Contact us today.

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Category: Andrews Roofing, Roof Leak, Roofing Repairs, Safety

Roofing 911: What to Do During a Leak

As winter storm warnings, tornadoes and gale warnings sweep across the country, homes are likely to incur damage in one way or another.

Accidents and damage happen, especially when you’re in a storm-prone area like the Tidewater region of Southeast Virginia. As much as we encourage homeowners to prepare their homes and roofs in advance of bad weather to avoid certain issues, sometimes there’s no preparing for mother nature.

So, if you suddenly hear the “drip drip drip” or see the telltale signs of a roof leak, there are things you can do immediately to help mitigate damage until the storm subsides and a full, professional repair can be done.

Document Everything
This may not be your first instinct, but it’s really very critical to document as much as possible as soon as you notice the damage so you can provide this to your insurance company. The clearer you are able to make it that the leak was caused by storm damage, the more likely your claim is to be processed and the quicker it can be resolved.

Of course, do not put yourself in danger in the midst of a storm to get on your roof and take photos, but from where you can inside your house, photograph or video the active leak. Then when it’s safe, take photos on a level area from the outside. Some insurance companies suggest photographing your home when there is no damage and keeping those photos on file for comparison. This makes it easier to show where exactly damage has been done and prove that it was not there prior to the event.

Move Valuables
Another first step in the event of roof damage is to remove any valuable items from the area of the leak. This is particularly important for electronics as they don’t play well with water and can cause electrical damage or fires. Any artwork or photos hanging on walls where the leak may spread should be removed. Curtains, rugs and furniture should be pulled away from the area. If items have been damaged, be sure to document that as well for insurance purposes. Then set them aside to be thoroughly dried and cleaned to avoid mold and mildew.

Contain the Water
If you are able to identify the source of the leak, and the leak is dripping straight downward, place a large container underneath it to catch the water. Check on this container often and empty it before it becomes too heavy or nearly full. It’s also a good idea to place a tarp or sheet of plastic underneath the container in case any water splashes out or spills over, but do not use plastic or tarping to collect water, as it can be difficult to collect and remove water from sheeting without further damaging insulation, flooring or drywall nearby. If plastic sheeting is used under your container, make sure to remove it as soon as the issue is repaired as it can become a vapor barrier, causing condensation where it should not be, without giving it a way out.

Temporarily Cover the Leak
Tarps can seem like a good, easy solution for leaks, but the fact is that putting them onto your roof is dangerous, and if they aren’t placed perfectly over the peak of your roof or tucked under the shingles just right, then they can actually collect water and direct it into other vulnerable areas of the roof. They are also likely to blow off or shift in ways that can cause additional damage. If a large portion of your roof is damaged, this may be the only option, but for smaller areas of damage, try a different patching method instead. Roofing tape and caulk can be used safely from inside your attic to help close up holes and prevent additional water from entering. You can find these items at your local hardware store, and you’d be wise to purchase them in advance of a storm so you’re not running out in the middle of one to stock up. But keep in mind – these are temporary solutions only and professional repairs will need to be made as soon as possible.

Dry Things Out
Anything that has gotten damp or drenched from a roof leak should be dried out as soon as possible. Good ventilation can help in some cases, but you may also want to use a large floor fan directed at any damp areas to help dry them out faster. This will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can lead to additional damage to valuables and your home’s structure. When possible, it is still a good idea to have a professional come out and inspect any wood or materials that got wet to ensure no rot, termite or other structural issues are present.

Call a Professional
As soon as you are able, contact a trusted roofing professional. Even if they cannot come right away, call them as soon as you notice the damage so you can be added to their schedule. It’s never advisable to try and repair your roof yourself – it’s dangerous and if repairs are done incorrectly, it can cause major damage to the entire structure of your home, not to mention your repairs may not meet code requirements and could make it difficult to insure or sell the home in the future.

If you’ve experienced roof damage and leaking, contact Andrews Roofing. We have extensive experience with the type of issues Hampton Roads homeowners experience during storms and bad weather, and we have a local reputation for quality workmanship.

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