Apr 11, 2024 | Roofing
Roofing Contractor Checklist
Choosing the right roofing contractor is essential to making sure your home stays protected from the elements while also maintaining its aesthetic appeal. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about finding a partner who can deliver reliability, quality, and peace of mind. In your hunt for the perfect roofing contractor, here are five crucial factors to consider, presented through the lens of both positives and negatives.
1. Experience and Expertise
Look For: A contractor with a solid track record and extensive experience. Stonebridge Roofing, for example, brings years of expertise to the table, ensuring that they can handle a wide range of roofing problems with ease. An experienced contractor can navigate the complexities of any project, providing solutions that are both effective and durable.
Beware Of: New or inexperienced contractors may offer lower prices, but they often lack the skills and knowledge necessary to deal with unexpected challenges. This can result in subpar work that might cost you more in the long run.
2. Licenses and Insurances
Look For: It’s essential that your contractor is fully licensed and insured. This not only demonstrates their legitimacy but also protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage. Stonebridge Roofing maintains all necessary licenses and insurance, giving clients peace of mind knowing they’re in responsible hands.
Beware Of: Contractors who can’t provide proof of licensure or insurance. Hiring such contractors exposes you to unnecessary risks, including potential legal and financial liabilities.
3. Reputation and Reviews:
Look For: Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers. A reputable company like Stonebridge Roofing often has a portfolio of successful projects and glowing reviews, showcasing their commitment to 
quality and customer satisfaction.
Beware Of: A lack of reviews or a pattern of negative feedback can be red flags. They suggest a company’s inability to meet client expectations or a history of poor-quality work.
4. Price and Value:
Look For: Competitive pricing that reflects the quality of materials and workmanship. Stonebridge Roofing ensures that you get what you pay for, offering reasonable quotes that match the high level of service and outcomes they deliver.
Beware Of: Extremely low bids may be tempting but often indicate corners being cut, either in materials or labor. Conversely, exorbitant prices don’t always guarantee superior quality. Balance is key.
5. Customer Service and Communication:
Look For: A contractor who listens to your needs, communicates clearly, and keeps you informed throughout the project. Stonebridge Roofing prides itself on its customer service, ensuring clients feel supported from start to finish.
Beware Of: Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, unsatisfactory results, and frustration. Contractors who seem disinterested or are difficult to reach should be avoided.
Stonebridge Commitment
Choosing the right roofing contractor involves careful consideration of their experience, credentials, reputation, pricing, and customer service. Stonebridge Roofing exemplifies the positive aspects of what to look for in a roofing contractor, making them a premier choice for homeowners in North Florida seeking expertise in roof replacements and repairs. Remember, a good roofing contractor is not just a service provider but a partner in maintaining the safety and beauty of your home.
Apr 3, 2024 | Roofing
Heavy rains and winds always have the possibility of wearing down your roof protection. Leaking roofs are more than just a nuisance; they’re a beacon signaling the urgent need for repairs to protect your home from further damage. At Stonebridge, we understand the urgency of the situation. Here are 4 quick fixes that can buy you time before professional help arrives. However, remember, these are temporary solutions, and it’s crucial to contact a professional as soon as possible for the necessary repairs.
1. Clearing Gutters and Downspouts
Often, a leaking roof can be the result of clogged gutters and downspouts preventing proper water drainage. Leaves, twigs, and debris can accumulate in your gutters, causing water to back up and potentially enter your home. As a fast DIY fix, ensure your gutters are clean and free of any blockages. Safely use a ladder to reach your gutters and remove debris by hand or with a gutter scoop. Flush the gutters and downspouts with water from a hose if possible to ensure they’re clear and water can flow freely.
2. Tarp Covering
If the leak is extensive and a storms are not over, a tarp covering might be your best bet. Secure a large tarp over the affected area on your roof, ensuring it extends over the ridge and down the other side. Secure the tarp with sandbags or heavy items if possible to not create any more damage with nails or sharp objects. This method provides a temporary barrier against rainwater until repairs can be made.
3. Sealant Spray Solution
For a swift response to a leaking roof that doesn’t involve roofing tar, consider using a sealant spray. These aerosol sealants can be applied directly to the leak area from the inside of your attic. First, identify the leak source by looking for dampness or sunlight breaking through the roof. Clean the area around the leak to ensure it’s free from debris and moisture for optimal adhesion. Then, shake the can well and spray the sealant liberally over the leak, covering it completely. Sealant sprays are excellent for sealing small holes and cracks temporarily and can quickly create a waterproof barrier over the affected area.
This approach is best for minor leaks and should be seen as a temporary fix until professional repairs can be carried out. The ease of application makes it a convenient option for immediate leak mitigation, but it’s essential to schedule a professional inspection and repair to address the underlying issues and prevent future leaks.
4. Applying Rubber Sealants
For leaks around roof fixtures like vents or chimneys, a rubber sealant can offer a temporary fix. These areas often leak due to broken seals, and applying a waterproof rubber sealant around the base of the fixtures can prevent water from penetrating your home. Ensure the area is dry before application for the best results.
Don’t Wait – Contact Stonebridge ASAP!
If you’re dealing with a leaking roof, don’t delay in seeking professional help. Stonebridge offers Emergency Roof Repair Services to provide the expertise and services you need to protect your home and family. Contact us as soon as possible for the necessary repairs. Remember, a quick response can save you time and money in the long run.
Aug 29, 2023 | Blog, Home exterior, Roofing
When a big storm is bearing down on your area, it’s probably a little too late for major roof repairs. But it’s never too late to try and cut down on the damage that could be coming. Here are a few tips for things you need to do right away before a storm hits.
Pre-Storm Checklist:
1. Look for Leaks or Stains Indoors:
Visible stains on a ceiling or wall could mean an obvious roof problem. Some roof leaks can be tricky though if water enters the attic and travels along framing like trusses, dripping somewhere unrelated to the leak. If you see a stain along an exterior wall or ceiling you may need to take some emergency protection steps.
2. Look for Debris in Your Gutters:
We all know that gutters will gather leaves and dirt throughout the year, but you may not know how damaging this gutter gunk can be. Most Florida roofs are made from materials that wear over time, like fiberglass/asphalt shingles, tiles, etc. As the material wears down, it sheds and will usually collect in the gutters. If the water in your gutters is unable to drain properly, it will gather and potentially leak into the walls and ceilings of your home. If you inspect your gutters and find roof debris, you may need to take emergency protection steps or call a roofing expert for advice.
3. Exterior Inspection:
Take a few minutes to do a visual inspection of the exterior of your roof. Materials will degrade over time. For asphalt shingle roofs, there are often small corners that may pull up away from the roof. It’s often common for shingles to pull away and blow off completely in heavy winds. You should also look to see if there are any sags or discolored spots on your roof. These may be signs of damage that could lead to leaks soon. Be sure to take pictures, make notes, and document everything.
4. Trim Your Trees:
Check around your home for any low-hanging or dead tree branches that could potentially fall and damage your roof in heavy winds. You can trim away small branches if it’s safe to do so, but leave the heavy stuff for professionals.
5. Tarp Your Roof
If you see any areas of large damage before the storm, it’s important to try and prevent further damage. You can buy a tarp at almost every hardware store and most likely you can find one large enough to cover 3 feet past each edge of the damaged spot. Lowes has a helpful video on how to tarp your roof.
Post-Storm Checklist:
After the storm passes, and when you are sure it’s safe, there are a few post-storm things to check off. If you think you are experiencing any leaks or think you may have had roof damage, Here are the 5 most important things to do next.
1. Inspect your Property as soon as Possible
Do an inspection similar to your pre-storm check. Look for loose or missing shingles, damage from tree branches, debris on the roof, sagging spots, etc. Check the interior for water spots, stains and active leaks.
2. Document Everything
Take pictures of anything that looks like it might be damaged to you and make notes. There is no such thing as over-documenting and all of this can come in handy when it’s time to file an insurance claim.
3. Tarp Your Roof
If you do have any large damage spots or leaks in your home, you can follow the same tips from the video here.
4. File an Insurance Claim
If you believe that you have significant roof damage, it’s time to file an insurance claim. Contact your local agent or insurance carrier to see the proper method for filing a claim to get the process started.
5. Call Stonebridge Roofing – Waterproofing – Exteriors
If you’re not sure how extensive your roof damage is, call the trusted experts at Stonebridge. You can request our emergency roof repair service here. We will come to give you a full assessment of the damage and inspect your roof with no obligation. 904-262-6636.
Stonebridge Roofing is a licensed and insured, certified roofing installer, so they are approved by the manufacturer to provide a warranty. Stonebridge Roofing can also help with new replacement windows, vinyl siding, gutters, and painting as well. Let Stonebridge Roofing become your first choice for all things exterior. Request your free assessment today.
Jul 18, 2023 | Roofing
Preparing your roof for hurricane season is a multi-step process designed to ensure your roof as sturdy and secure as possible. With regular maintenance and attention to detail, you’ll be sure that your home and family will be protected. Here’s some things you’ll want to do:
1. **Get A Roof Inspection:** It’s always a good hire a local professional to inspect your roof for any potential damage or weak areas. If you’re comfortable doing it yourself, look for missing or loose shingles, rusted flashing, worn seals, and any other signs of damage. Don’t forget to check the underside of the roof from your attic for signs of leaks or water damage.
2. **Repairs:** Any signs of damage or wear should be repaired promptly. Loose or missing shingles should be replaced, as these can be easily torn off by high winds, creating a weak spot in your roof. If the flashing is rusted or damaged, it should also be replaced to prevent leaks.
3. **Trim Trees:** Trim back any tree branches that overhang your roof. In a hurricane, these branches can be torn off and thrown onto your roof, potentially causing severe damage.
4. **Gutter Maintenance:** Clean your gutters and make sure they’re securely attached. Blocked or loose gutters can overflow, causing water damage to your home, and can be torn off in high winds.
6. **Professional Check-up:** If you’re in a high-risk area, consider having a professional wind mitigation inspector check your home. They can identify potential weaknesses and recommend fixes to help your home withstand a hurricane.
7. **Insurance Check-up:** Make sure your home insurance policy covers hurricane damage, and understand the terms. Some policies have a separate hurricane deductible, and others may not cover flood damage.
8. **Prepare for Emergency Repairs:** Keep materials such as tarps, plywood, and nails on hand for emergency post-storm repairs.
Remember, the best time to prepare your roof for hurricane season is well in advance of any storms. A well-maintained and sturdy roof can greatly reduce the potential damage to your home during a hurricane.
Mar 2, 2023 | Roofing
Replacing your old roof with a new, more efficient one can be a huge investment. Then again, delaying it further when your home clearly needs a new one can lead to costly fixes. If you can’t pay for a new roof due to a lack of out-of-pocket funds, know that there are ways you can finance this major home improvement.
Feb 11, 2023 | Blog, Roofing
Here in Jacksonville, roofs take a beating from salt, wind, UV radiation, and heat. Generally, roofs in northern Florida will last about 15-20 years, but any roof in the region should be inspected every year. Roof repairs should always be done by a local, professional roofing company who is licensed and insured. But how do you know when to call them? Depending on the style of roof, some will show wear better than others, so today we will suggest seven visual signs that your roof needs replacing.
Sign 1: Leaks and Stains
Visible stains on a ceiling or wall may appear to be an obvious roof problem. However, roof leaks can be tricky to locate because
water can enter the attic, travel along framing like trusses, and drip somewhere unrelated to the leak. If you see a new stain along an exterior wall or ceiling you may need an emergency repair.
Crawling around in attics with no floor can lead to accidents and personal injury, so leave that task to the pros. Jacksonville roofers have experience working in hot Florida attics and can use that experience to find elusive roof leaks and their sources. Many Jacksonville roofers even wear special boots that allow them to safely walk across trusses and up steep roof angles.
Sign 2: The Roof is Old
It’s a good idea to keep maintenance records on your home like the age of your roof. Most asphalt shingle roofs will last between ten and twenty years, but if your records show it’s time for a replacement, get your roof inspected by a licensed and insured, Jacksonville roofing company. Roof repairs are critical to the health of your home because leaks can cause mold and mildew growth. Even if you see no visual problems yourself, let a pro perform a no-obligation inspection of your roof to prevent future damage.
Sign 3: Look For Debris In Your Gutters
It might seem counterintuitive to look for roof issues in your gutters, but doing so is a smart move. Most Jacksonville roofs are made from materials that wear over time, like fiberglass/asphalt shingles, tiles, and wooden shakes. As the roof wears, the material it sheds will usually collect in the gutters, as the material is too heavy to be washed away.
To perform your own inspection, look for what appears to be sand in the bottom of the gutter. Most of the debris will collect at the lowest point on the gutter, so usually the first place to look is near the downspout. If you cannot see the bottom of the gutter because the debris is blocking your view, a significant amount of the roof has eroded away. If you discover you need an emergency roof repair caused by a strong storm, get a professional inspection by a licensed and insured roofer.
Sign 4: Cracks or Gaps in Your Flashing
Jacksonville roofs can get some severe weather, so even a small crack around roof flashing (thin sheet metal) can allow precipitation to penetrate the roof. Even if the leak only occurs when the rain is blowing sideways, eventually the damage will accumulate. When it does, the roof underlayment and roof decking will begin to soften and rot.
Sign 5: Sags in the Roof
You may have seen older homes with roofs that appear to dip and sag. More often than not, the framing under these roofs has become water damaged, allowing the framing to bend under the weight of the roof. Sagging roofs can still be repaired and reroofed, but care should be taken to hire an experienced professional who is licensed and insured.
Professionals should determine which style of roof will function best in the situation. For example, an inexperienced roofer may be unaware that certain types of roofing require specific roof pitches to work as designed. Using the incorrect roof material on a sagging roof can actually cause more problems than it solves, so always consult a professional in these situations.
Sign 6: Moss and Mold On Your Roof
Moss on your roof indicates a moisture problem severe enough to cause rot. These plants require near constant moisture and limited sunlight, so if they are actively growing on your roof, the roof is never completely drying out. Roofs should be dry in a matter of hours after a rain shower, so if your roof is holding moisture, the moss and mold will be a likely indicator.
Sign 7: Small Visible Damage
Most roofing materials will degrade over time and leave debris in the gutters. A very common find are small bits of roofing 
material that have dry rotted and broken away. For asphalt shingles, these are often small corners of a shingle, or in the case of shakes, small splinters of wood as these roofing materials begin to degrade with age.
Get Help Today! Contact Stonebridge Roofing
If you are unaware of the age of your roof, but begin to see small pieces of debris at the base of your downspouts, you can assume your roof is approaching its lifespan. This is a perfect time to contact a reputable Jacksonville roofing company, like Stonebridge Roofing and request a roof health report from a local expert roofer. For $150, your roof health report will include an overview of any visible damage (with photos), repair recommendations and an assessment of the lifespan left on your current roof.
Stonebridge Roofing is a licensed and insured, certified roofing installer, so they are approved by the manufacturer to provide a warranty. Stonebridge Roofing can also help with new replacement windows, vinyl siding, gutters, and painting as well. Let Stonebridge Roofing become your first choice for all things exterior. Financing Options are available! Request your free quote today.
