10 Best Roof Repair in Suffolk, VA

What are common roofing issues?

Even well-maintained roofs inevitably run into issues after years of wear and tear. Noticing issues early with visual inspections can prevent pricier repairs later.

Some typical roofing issues you may come across while conducting your own visual inspection include the following.

Damaged shingles

A common roofing problem is broken or cracked shingles. The usual life span of asphalt shingles is 20–30 years. However, exposure to harsh weather, wind, rain and ultraviolet radiation over time can cause the erosion of the mineral granules and the cracking or lifting of the shingles. Curled, broken or missing shingles let in moisture that can lead to leaks, mold and structural decay.

Flashing failures

Flashing refers to the metal sheets around the chimneys, joints, dormers, skylights, valleys and vents of a roof. Its main function is to block rainwater and runoff from entering the home by deflecting it away from vulnerable seams and transition points. When flashing hasn’t been installed properly or has worn down over time, water can leak through. Check for flashing failure when you see sagging areas, leaks coming from joints, moisture stains, peeling paint or drips from ceilings that align with flashing seams.

Leaks

Roof leaks develop when watertight joints, such as seams and flashing, shift and open gaps for water intrusion. Early identification and repair stop mold growth and decay from happening.

Poor insulation

Poor attic insulation can cause costly roofing issues and uncomfortable temperatures in your home. Proper insulation is more energy efficient and can yield substantial energy savings.

Standing water

Standing water frequently happens when your roof’s decking has low areas and debris accumulation. This can lead to pooled water after storms, which can become a problem. If it persists for 48 hours or more, it can result in moisture saturation and rot in roof components. Weight stress is another consequence. Standing water can point to a need to redo your roof surface to correct the drainage or slope. Clearing debris regularly and ensuring proper drainage helps stop these issues from happening.

What are signs you need roof repair?

Call in a roofer if you spot the following signs:

• Water in your attic: If your attic insulation is wet or you see roof gaps, your roof likely needs repairs.
• Damaged shingles: Missing, curled or broken shingles let moisture enter your roof. Your decking and rafters can rot due to the moisture, resulting in potential structural issues.
• Discoloration: You probably have a leak if you see moisture stains or dark discoloration on the undersides of your rafters or decking.
• Mildew or mold Black mold and powdery mildew on your roof can lead to health issues and structural damage. These can indicate roof leaks, which need to be fixed as soon as possible.
• Rust: Severe rust can cause curling, warping or holes in your flashing or fasteners. This compromises weatherproofing and structural soundness.
• Visible sagging: Roof sheathing, joists and rafters can sag due to overwhelmed drainage, dense clay tiles, concrete pavers, mechanical equipment or excess insulation. Visible sagging is a warning sign of potential collapse, so get a roof inspection as soon as possible to determine the issue.

How long are roofs supposed to last?

Your quality of installation, climate, maintenance frequency and roofing material influence your roof’s life span. Installation quality plays the biggest part. An improperly installed roof may have gaps or other flaws that reduce its life expectancy.

Asphalt shingles last 20–30 years on average, but the type of shingle will affect the life span. Architectural shingles can last up to 25–30 years, and traditional three-tab shingles typically last 15–20 years. Well-maintained wood shingles or shake roofs can last about 20–25 years. However, they are susceptible to rot, mold and insect damage.

A metal roof’s life span is 40–70 years or more, depending on the kind of metal used. Concrete roofs, with proper maintenance, can last 50 years or more and sometimes last over a century. Slate roofs can last for more than a century.

How can you save money on a Suffolk roof repair?

Getting your roof repaired is very expensive. Here are some ways you can cut down on the cost.

• Check your homeowners insurance: Read through your homeowners insurance policy to determine what, if any, roof repair costs are covered. Depending on the reason for damage, such as fallen trees or storms, insurance may cover a portion of the cost of the repairs.
• Compare quotes from multiple sources: Compare the rates and services offered by several roofing companies in Suffolk. This helps you make an educated decision.
• Conduct routine roof maintenance: Once your roof repairs are done, focus on regular inspections and maintenance. This helps you spot and prevent future issues. Missing a minor issue can worsen into more serious and expensive damage.
• Invest in preventive measures: Consider preventive measures such as adding insulation and improved ventilation. These help minimize moisture damage and future repair needs while also lowering energy bills.
• Schedule repair services during good weather if possible: Contractors may be more willing to negotiate prices during off-season periods. Avoid booking repairs during the wet season as inclement weather may raise the cost.

Our methodology for selecting roof repair companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.