Frequently Asked Questions

The best roofing material for your home in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area will depend on several key factors:

Climate: The Hampton Roads region experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Roofing materials need to be able to withstand high heat, humidity, and occasional severe weather like thunderstorms and hurricanes.

Budget: Roofing costs can vary significantly based on the material, with some options being more expensive upfront but potentially providing longer lifespans. It's important to balance your budget with the long-term performance of the roofing.

Aesthetics: The appearance of the roof is an important consideration, as it can greatly impact your home's curb appeal. Different roofing materials come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures to complement your home's architecture.

Durability: Roofs in Hampton Roads need to be durable enough to withstand heavy rain, wind, and even occasional hail or snow. Materials like asphalt shingles, metal, or slate to perform well in this climate.

Based on the climate and other factors in Hampton Roads, some of the top roofing material options to consider include:

Asphalt Shingles: A popular and cost-effective choice that holds up well to the local weat​her.

Metal Roofing: Extremely durable and long-lasting, with a variety of styles to choose from.

Slate & Tile Roofing: Adds an elegant, Mediterranean look and can withstand harsh conditions.

Ultimately, the best roofing material for your home will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consulting with a local roofing contractor can help you select the ideal option for your property.

The lifespan of a roof can vary widely depending on the roofing material, proper installation, and ongoing maintenance. In general, typical roof lifespans range from 15 to 50 years, but this can vary significantly based on the specific type of roofing used.

Homeowners in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area are often interested in the expected lifespan of different roofing materials that perform well in the local climate. The condition and longevity of your roof will depend on the type of roof, the effects of the local environment, and the maintenance it receives over time.

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, here are the typical lifespans for different roofing materials:

Asphalt Shingles: 15-20 years

Wood Shingles/Shakes: 10-40 years

Concrete Tiles: 20 years

Clay Tiles: 100

S1 Slate: 75-200 years

Metal Roofing: 15-40 years

It's important to note that roofing product manufacturers often offer a variety of warranties on their materials. Be sure to closely review those warranties to understand the responsibilities and financial obligations they will assume if their products fail to reach their expected lifetimes.

Proper installation and regular maintenance are also critical factors in maximizing the lifespan of your roof. Working with a reputable local roofing contractor can help ensure your new roof provides decades of reliable performance and protection for your home.

Roof replacement costs can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the size of the roof, the roofing materials used, the location of the home, and the overall complexity of the project. Homeowners in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area are often interested in understanding the average and typical price range for a new roof installation.

The price of a new roof can fluctuate widely, depending on the specific material selected, the contractor performing the work, the size and layout of the home, local labor rates, and the time of year the project is undertaken. To get a good idea of the cost for your particular roof, it's recommended to get estimates from two or three reputable roofing contractors in your local area.

It's important to keep in mind that cost should not be the only factor when choosing a roofing material and contractor. The quality of the materials and craftsmanship are equally important considerations. For each type of roofing material, there are different grades with varying price points. Evaluating the full product range and making a choice based on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and long-term performance needs is crucial.

Within the roofing industry, there are varying levels of expertise and quality of workmanship. Selecting a contractor who is committed to providing high-quality work is essential to ensuring your new roof lasts for years to come.

To help determine the potential annual cost of your new roof, you can use the following formula:

Total Cost (materials and labor) / Life Expectancy of Roof (in years) = Annual Cost

This calculation can provide a helpful estimate of the ongoing annual investment required to maintain your roof over its lifespan. Working closely with a local roofing professional can help you identify the right balance of cost, quality, and long-term value for your home.

As you prepare to have a new roof installed on your property, you may be wondering if you need to obtain a permit from your local authorities. The answer is yes, in most cases, a permit will be required for a new roof on a commercial property and sometimes on a residential property in Virginia.

Here's a quick overview of why a permit is necessary and how The Roofing Company you've chosen can help guide you through the process:

Do I need a permit for a new roof?

• Yes, the majority of jurisdictions in Virginia require property owners to obtain a permit before installing a new roof on their property.
• Permits generate revenue for local municipalities and will vary in cost from one municipality to the next.
• Failing to obtain the necessary permit can result in fines or even the requirement to remove the newly installed roof.

How does the permit process work?

• The Roofing Company will handle the permit application process on your behalf.  They will submit the required paperwork to the local building department, which includes details about the roofing project, such as the materials, dimensions, and any structural changes.
• Depending on your jurisdiction, additional supporting documents like a roof plan or engineering drawings may be needed.
• Once the permit is approved, the building department will allow the roof installation to begin.
• Purchasing these permits is crucial for compliance with the municipality where the property is located.  

The experienced team at The Roofing Company is well-versed in the permit requirements for your local area. They will guide you through the entire process, handling the application and coordinating the necessary inspections, so you can have your new roof installed with minimal hassle.

Please don't hesitate to discuss the permit requirements with your roofing contractor. They are there to ensure your roof replacement project is completed efficiently and in full compliance with local regulations.

The duration of a roof replacement project can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the job, the size of the roof, and the weather conditions at the time of the replacement. For example, a simple re-roofing project with similar materials and no structural changes may take only a few days to complete, while a more extensive project that involves removing and replacing multiple layers of old roofing material, installing new flashing and vents, or making significant structural repairs may take several weeks to complete. Additionally, inclement weather, such as heavy rain or extreme temperatures, can slow down the process and add to the overall timeline. Furthermore, if other jobs are already scheduled during the same timeframe, such as interior renovations or other exterior work, these additional projects can also impact the timeline and extend the overall duration of the roof replacement project.

Yes, we offer warranties on our workmanship and materials.

At The Roofing Company, we take pride in our work and stand behind the quality of our installations. That's why we offer comprehensive warranties on both our labor and the roofing products we install.

What's included in our warranty?

• A manufacturer's warranty on all roofing materials, including shingles, underlayment, and accessories.
• A labor warranty covers the replacement of any defective materials for a specified period of time, usually ranging from 10 to 50 years, depending on the type of roof, materials, and manufacturer used.
• A guarantee on our workmanship, ensuring that our installations meet industry standards and local building codes.

How long do your warranties last?

Our warranties vary depending on the type of roof and materials used. Typically our warranty ranges from 2 to 25 years for workmanship and up to 50 years or more for manufacturer-backed labor warranties on roofing products.

What does your warranty cover?

Our warranty covers defects in both materials and workmanship, including:

• Leaks and water damage
• Defective or damaged roofing materials
• Incorrect installation or installation errors
• Failure to meet building codes or manufacturer specifications

How do you file a warranty claim?

If you have a concern or issue with your roof, please contact us at 757-867-6600 or admingroup@theroofingcompany.com. We'll work with you to diagnose the problem and provide a solution. If necessary, we'll repair or replace the affected area(s) under the terms of our warranty.

At The Roofing Company, we're committed to providing high-quality roofing solutions and standing behind our work with comprehensive warranties. Contact us today to learn more about our warranties and how they can give you peace of mind for years to come!

The Roofing Company emphasizes that it's crucial for property owners to be proactive in inspecting their roof for potential issues. All too often, roofing problems are only discovered after significant damage has already occurred, leading to costly repairs.

According to the company, there are several key signs that a roof may be in need of attention:

Exterior Signs:

• Missing, cracked, warped, or damaged shingles
• Loose or deteriorating seams and flashings
• Excessive granule loss, with granules accumulating in the gutters or downspouts
• Curling or buckling of shingles

Interior Signs:

• Water stains, discoloration, or cracking on ceilings and walls
• Peeling paint or wallpaper
• Signs of moisture intrusion or active leaks

The Roofing Company and National Roofing Contractors Association recommends that property owners conduct regular, twice-yearly inspections to identify these potential problems early on. Catching issues like these in their early stages can prevent them from escalating into larger, more expensive problems.

Even if a roof appears to be in good condition on the surface, it may still be nearing the end of its expected lifespan and require replacement. Factors like the roof's age, material, and exposure to the elements can all impact when a replacement may be necessary.

By staying vigilant for these exterior and interior indicators of roof problems, and partnering with experienced roofing professionals like those at The Roofing Company, property owners can maintain the integrity of their roof and protect their home investment over the long term.

If your roof is leaking, here are the steps you should take:

Inspect the Roof Closely
Look for visible signs of damage, such as missing or cracked shingles, loose flashings, and areas of granule loss. Inside the home, check for water stains, peeling paint, and other indications of moisture intrusion.

Determine the Cause
As The Roofing Company explains, leaks don't always mean the entire roof needs replacement. The leaks could be caused by isolated issues like loose flashings or localized damage. 
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Consider Targeted Repairs
If the leaks are confined to specific areas, The Roofing Company may be able to recommend targeted repairs rather than a full roof replacement. Their team of experts can assess the extent of the damage and determine the most cost-effective solution.

Schedule a Professional Inspection
The Roofing Company strongly recommends having a professional roofing contractor inspect the roof, as they can provide a comprehensive evaluation and advise on the best course of action. Certain conditions like improper installation or material choice can lead to "roof failure" that requires replacement.

Explore Replacement Options
If the inspection reveals that the roof has reached the end of its lifespan or the damage is too extensive for repairs, The Roofing Company can guide you through the process of a full roof replacement. They can help you select the right roofing materials and system for your home.

By following these steps and partnering with The Roofing Company, property owners can effectively address roof leaks and determine the most appropriate solution, whether that's targeted repairs or a complete roof replacement.

Yes, we do, however, we refer to these as transaction estimates.  At The Roofing Company, we understand the importance of thorough roof evaluations for a variety of property-related transactions and processes. Whether this is for a rental property, insurance claims, or a real estate transaction, our expert roofing assessments can provide the documentation and guidance you need.

However, due to the increasing demand for these specialized services, we are no longer able to offer them free of charge. Our commitment to delivering high-quality results means we must apply a fee for the following:

Roof Inspections and Certifications for:

• Property Management and Rental Properties
• Insurance Claims and Repairs
• Real Estate Transactions
• Repair/Replacement Estimates for "Long Distance" Properties

We have a standard fee for services to provide on-site inspection or assessment. This fee must be paid in full prior to receiving our comprehensive reports.

For your convenience, you may pay by credit card over the phone or by check at the time of the on-site inspection.

If The Roofing Company is awarded the work based on our assessment, most of the time the fee will be applied to the overall project cost, effectively making the inspection a complimentary service.

By partnering with our expert roofing professionals, you can trust that you're receiving accurate, reliable information to protect your property investments and guide your decision-making. Contact us today at 757-867-6600 Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.or admingroup@theroofingcompany.com to schedule your assessment.

You have two basic options. You can choose a complete replacement of the roof system, involving a tear-off of the old roof, or a re-cover over the existing roof, involving only the installation of a new membrane and surfacing. If you’ve already had one recover over your original roof, check with a professional roofing contractor to see if your deck can support a second recover.

Most work should not be do-it-yourself. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace a roof. Novices can harm a roof with improper roofing techniques and severely injure themselves by falling off or even through a roof in need of repair or replacement. Homeowner maintenance should be confined to roof inspections in both the fall and spring to check for cracked or curling shingles, and for cleaning rain gutters filled with dead leaves and other debris. If you must see the roof for yourself, use a firmly braced or tied-off ladder equipped with rubber safety feet. Wear rubber-soled shoes and stay on the ladder (and off the roof) if possible.

A: Yes, our slate craftsmen can install a new VELUX® skylight in your slate roof. We also recommend installation of the factory-made copper flashing kit from VELUX.

A: No. It’s not uncommon to have a few slates “shed” off your roof over a long period of time. The repair is easy if the slate repairs are performed by trained slate roofing mechanics.

A: In most cases, this is just another way for a roofer to get you to take off a permanent roofing product and put on some imitation product that will have to be replaced every 20 years or less. Slate is one of the very few permanent roofing solutions. Don’t let yourself be talked into taking off a roofing system that has proven to last longer than 150 years and put on something that has an average life cycle of 20 years!

A: Roofing manufacturers and roofers have chased the holy grail of roofing, slate, for a very long time. We hear from roofing manufacturer salespeople all the time, “We’ve got a product just like slate only better” – and so far, they have all failed. Just in the Hampton Roads area, there are so many issues. All you have to do is look around. Universities, police departments, banks and numerous residential properties all have “lifetime” asphalt shingles or fake slate products that have failed. Call us and we can give you several addresses so you can look and decide for yourself if you really want that type of product on the roof of your property.

A: Yes, over the past couple of years we have installed many jobs using genuine Buckingham or Vermont slate for high-wind, lightweight real slate applications.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a synthetic rubber compound designed to be as durable as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer {M-class} rubber). Unlike other materials of its type, however, TPO can be fused together, which eliminates the need for tape systems. When bonded, TPO creates a monolithic homogenous structure that covers your entire roof, creating a stronger and more durable roofing system.

When it comes to roofing, the seams are often the weakest link. Knowing that you won’t have to worry about them is one of the reasons many residential and commercial property owners are replacing their Chesapeake roofing with TPO membranes.

As TPO membranes have hot air welded seams, its seam strength is three times stronger than conventional rubber roofs that use tape systems. It is also about six times stronger than those with glued seams.

• Its membranes are more flexible than other roofing materials and is easier to install
• TPO roofing can resist UV radiation and ozone exposure effectively
• It can help reduce your property’s solar heat gain
• TPO roofing can help reduces your home’s energy consumption, as it is manufactured using energy-efficient, high performance construction techniques​
  

TPO is more popular for mechanically attached roofs; however, you can also use it in fully adhered and ballasted roofing systems.

Do you want a more durable and energy-efficient roof? The Roofing Company offers high quality products that meet your needs. Get in touch with us for more information on TPO roofing and other replacement options.