The roof is one of the most important components of your house, and it affects everything from the home’s structural integrity to its market value. And because roofs are so important, repair and installation work needs to be handled by an experienced and vetted roofing company.
Services Offered by Northern Virginia Roofers
Roof repair
There are many threats to your roof, so check for damage after major storms and on a routine basis, twice yearly during the spring and fall. Unless you’re a professional roofer with the necessary safety gear, climbing around on your roof is never a good idea. Observe what you can with your feet firmly on the ground, and call a pro to do the rest.
Most roofing contractors perform inspections and are a good resource if your roof’s structure is complex or you aren’t sure if you actually have roof damage. However, not all roofing contractors offer roof repairs, so if you find a roofing contractor for an inspection, be sure that they can also perform any necessary repairs.
Roof replacement
The safety of everyone and everything in your home depends on having a solid roof overhead. Replace your roof if:
- Its structural integrity has been compromised
- It needs repair but is near or past the end of its expected lifespan
Replacing your roof is an involved (and loud) process, so ask your contractor to review the process with you and provide you with an estimated time frame for the job.
A professional roofing contractor should always remove the old shingles before installing the new roof. This will give your contractor the opportunity to assess the underlying roof structure. If a roofer does not include existing roof removal in his or her bid for the job, cross that company off your list and continue your search.
Materials Used by Roofing Contractors in Northern Virginia
If you’re considering making a change to the material of your roof, do some research and consult a professional roofer to determine which roofing material suits your home and climate best. In Northern Virginia, you’ll need to consider factors such as snow and frequent thunderstorms.
Asphalt shingles
This popular roofing material is composed of a fiberglass mat with small particles of asphalt and minerals on top.
Asphalt shingles are a cost-effective option, and they typically last for several decades. However, asphalt shingles are more easily damaged by wind than some other roofing materials. They can also absorb heat from the sun, which warms up your attic. Insulation and proper ventilation can help with this issue.
Metal roofs
Metal roofs can last for 50 years or more. Although it is a more expensive option, this material is insect-proof, fire resistant, and recyclable. In fact, the long lifespan and overall durability of a metal roof means that your home insurance provider may offer you a discount on your annual premium if you have a metal roof installed.
Wood shakes and shingles
Wood shakes, split from logs, are thicker on one end. Wood shingles have a more uniform thickness, tapering less than shakes. They’re also sawn instead of split, so they’re less textured.
Wood shakes and shingles look great, and many homeowners like how this material transforms as it ages. However, a wood roof requires some maintenance, including regular cleaning of debris buildup and treatment to keep mildew and fungus at bay.
Natural slate and synthetic slate shingles
Slate roofs are attractive and durable, sometimes lasting over 100 years. Installation of slate roofs needs to be handled by a contractor with plenty of experience with this material. Slate roofing is a more expensive option, but for some homeowners, the cost is worth the look of the material and its very long lifespan.
Clay and concrete tile roofs
Clay and concrete tiles are much heavier than other roofing materials, so they require more support underneath. The installation is also more expensive than standard asphalt shingles. However, a tile roof will last a lifetime, sometimes 80 years or more. Concrete tiles are less expensive than clay, but clay tiles are more durable than concrete.
The Best Picks for the Top Roofing Companies in Northern Virginia
At Best Pick Reports, we survey Northern Virginia homeowners each year to find the best, most professional roofing companies in your area.
All Best Pick companies are vetted on an annual basis for continuing high-quality work and stellar customer service. We verify all state-required licenses and insurance every year, too. Our intense qualification process ensures that the companies we recommend are indeed the best of the best. We’re proud to present that information in a format that is clear and easy to navigate.
Whether you need a roof inspection, a small repair, or a complete replacement, call a Northern Virginia roofing Best Pick today. You’ll be pleased with the entire experience—we guarantee it!
