Leaks & Service Repairs

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

Reroof Estimates & Inspections

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

Tag: water damage

Spring Cleaning for Your Roof

Spring is here which means it’s time to throw open the windows, clear out the clutter and give your home a good spring cleaning.

Typically spring cleaning may look like purging your closet of items you haven’t worn in years, emptying and cleaning the fridge (and throwing out those ten expired salad dressings!) or even washing the windows, but there’s another part of your home that you probably don’t have on your list that could also use a good annual cleaning – your roof!

Particularly after a long winter, your roof needs some extra attention to ensure it is functioning optimally for all the spring showers and summer storms. Annual roof cleaning will extend the life of your roof as well, saving you thousands of dollars in the long run. Here are a few spring cleaning tips to keep your roof in tip-top condition.

Ditch the Debris
It’s not uncommon over the winter for leaves, sticks and other debris to build up on your roof, especially in any roofing valleys your home may have or around dormers. Removing the debris from your roof keeps anything from building up and causing mildew, or from damaging or even removing shingles. Debris can be removed from a roof while staying safely on the ground using a roof rake, which you can purchase online or at a hardware store for a small investment. If you are able to access parts of your roof from windows, you can use a roof rake or even a leaf blower while staying safely inside your home to remove debris from those areas. Whatever method you choose, just stay away from climbing on top of your roof on your own, as this is dangerous and better done by a professional with the appropriate safety equipment.

Trim the Trees
To keep additional vegetation and debris from building up on the roof once you’ve cleaned it, make sure the trees and other plants around your roofline are trimmed back. Tree branches that touch your roof can easily scrape up against shingles or flashing during a storm, removing or damaging them which can eventually lead to leaks. Call in a professional tree service for larger or taller trees so you don’t cause more damage to your home in the trimming process.

Clean the Gutters
Clogged or at least partially blocked gutters are nearly a given after the winter months. When gutters become clogged or obstructed, it can cause water to back up and seep under the eaves of your home, causing water damage and leaks. In the winter, clogged gutters can freeze and cause ice dams to form which can cause major damage to shingles and the gutter itself. Each spring it’s a good idea to call in a professional gutter cleaning service to remove any debris so that water can flow easily away from your roof and your home. It’s also a good idea to inspect the gutters, including downspouts to make sure that there are no punctures or other damage and that where the water exits the gutter is properly graded to move water away from your foundation.

Roof Cleaners
If your roof is plagued with mildew or dark stains, there are several different types of roof cleaning solutions available. Many of these cleaners come in containers that can be attached to the end of a standard garden hose, so you can spray the areas of your roof that are stained from the ground or a ladder (with assistance, of course). If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, there may be professional roof cleaning companies in your area that offer this service. If you choose to tackle this yourself, just be sure to carefully follow any manufacturer instructions that come with the product.

If you find any issues with your roof during the process of spring cleaning, contact Andrews Roofing. We’ve helped homeowners in the Hampton Roads region extend the life of their roofs through proper maintenance and repairs and we also provide gutter installation and replacement services. We are very familiar with the types of issues and concerns that arise in homes in southeast Virginia, and we have decades of experience in how to make them right. 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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Common Issues Caused by Leaks in Your Commercial Roof

Your roof is a critical part of your commercial building. If your commercial roof is compromised in any way, it can lead to exponential costs and headaches in the future. Whether you own your business location, an apartment complex, or office building, understanding potential issues is critical. Learn more about these common issues caused by a leaking roof.

Mold Growth

The first thing that will happen when a roof leaks is that water will enter your roofline and begin to soak into interior elements. Very quickly, this will cause mold growth. Mold only needs a few basic features in order to start growing in your building:

  • Moisture
  • Heat
  • A food source

Some common food sources for mold are drywall and carpeting, but mold and mildew can grow on the grout of a bathroom floor, on your insulation, and even on the wood frame of your building.

Rotting Wood

As mold grows and moisture soaks into your wood support beams, it could reduce the strength of your entire support structure. Over time, it could create a dangerous situation. From a sagging roof line to a complete collapse of your commercial roof, it’s best to prevent water damage before your framing begins to rot.

Compromised Insulation

Finally, a leak in your roof could cause your insulation to become wet. Most buildings are insulated with fiberglass insulation. This insulating material uses air pockets between the fibers to create a heat barrier. When exposed to water, fiberglass insulation will become heavy and crumple. Not only will this reduce its insulating properties, it could add significant weight to your commercial ceiling, creating a dangerous situation.

Don’t let a lack of maintenance or prompt repairs compromise your roof. Contact Andrews Roofing today to have your commercial roof inspected, repaired, or replaced. Protect your investment and ensure a reliable water barrier for years to come by calling 757-296-0553 or emailing us today!

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How Warm Weather Affects Flat Roofs

Your building relies on the structural integrity of your roof. When it comes to roof damage, most building owners worry about extreme storm systems or snowy winters. Few regard summer as a problem to their roofing, which is a mistake. Hot summer days can negatively affect your flat roof. Here is what you need to know about warm weather and the affects it has on your roof.

Thermal Cycle Problems

In the summer, the temperatures rotate between hot and cold throughout the day and night. Flat style roofs expand and contract in these conditions. This usually leads to water penetrating the roof. You may need breathable PVC material to withstand the condensation and the thermal cycles.

Blistering Issues

When water penetrates through the roof, this is a problem on its own. It only gets worse when you add the summer heat into the mix. When you heat the moisture under the sun all day, it can lift the felt from the roof. This will lead to bubbles or blisters in the roof. If you catch these blisters as soon as possible, then you can replace the damaged sections. However, as time goes on and more blisters develop, you would need to replace the entire roof.

Moisture Damage

When moisture builds up, mold and fungus might grow. When you add sunlight into the mix, the high temperatures can help increase the rate of mold growth. This fungus may damage flashing. If you have damaged flashing, this compromises your draining capacity.

Older roofs and those that endure high temperatures should have regular inspections. When you have a roofing issue, you never want to wait around on it. Most roofing problems get worse with time, whereas maintenance may be simple and quick. With a call to Andrews Roofing today, you can avoid turning those minor problems into major problems. Call 757-296-0553 or email us today!

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3 Signs You Should Give Your Roof Some Attention Today

The roof on your commercial building is protecting a huge investment. Whether you run a business from your building or lease the space to other business owners, you need it to stay in good shape. Do you know what signs indicate that the roof needs immediate attention? The following are three to get you started.

  1. Leaks

Some leaks are sneaky, and others are quite noticeable. Some things to look for are stained walls, both inside and outside the building. You may notice streaks that seem to begin at the roofline and work their way down. You may also notice stains on the ceiling, indicating there is pooling water that is beginning to seep through. Stains often point out a smaller leak.

Another sign you have a leak, is actual water flowing from the ceiling inside or the soffit outside. This could indicate a more serious leak, making it more important that you have it inspected immediately.

  1. Poor Workmanship

Whether the roof was installed improperly to begin with, or you’ve had some poor repairs done, your commercial roof won’t be efficient unless it is in good repair. It’s important that you hire the professionals who have the right tools and products to get the job done right. If your roof is in disrepair at all, it’s time to call in a commercial roofer.

  1. Standing Water

There are many commercial buildings with flat roofs. If yours is one of those, be sure you periodically check for standing water. This could occur because the materials weren’t installed correctly, or the building has structural damage of some sort. It could also be due to clogged drains. Ponding water will create further damage, so it’s important to get it taken care of right away.

Contact a Commercial Roofer Today

If you’ve noticed leaks, poor workmanship, or standing water on your commercial roof, seek immediate attention. Contact Andrews Roofing by calling 757-296-0553 or sending us an email today, to find out what you need to do next.

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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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