Roofing company Richmond Va
Your roofing project, whether a new construction or an older property, is a big investment. Let our team provide you with quality options for your home or business. With our dedication to service, we are able to accommodate any roofing need, large or small. We take pride in every job we do and our years of dedication and experience is the key to our reputation. Call our Richmond-based office at 804-419-7611 to discuss the options for your roofing needs.
Additionally, we know the importance of good communication, which sadly is lacking in the contractor industry. We will return your calls promptly, carefully coordinate scheduling, and follow up. We are confident you will be very satisfied with our service.
Additionally, we know the importance of good communication, which sadly is lacking in the contractor industry. We will return your calls promptly, carefully coordinate scheduling, and follow up. We are confident you will be very satisfied with our service.
Best roofing company in Richmond Va
Roofing Types
We touched briefly on the work that we do on the home page, but will get into a lot more detail about the various types of roofing we install on this page. In addition to the details of each type, we will look at the pros and cons to help you narrow down the many options and zero in on the best choice for your home. This is a costly endeavor that warrants a lot of research. We hope to provide you with all the knowledge you will need to make the right call. We strive to be competitive, not necessarily the lowest cost but by far the best value. Our experience, quality of workmanship, and top notch communication puts Commonwealth Roofing Pros at the head of the pack when it comes to your roofing needs. Roofing Types we installAsphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a traditional roofing material high in popularity. Although there are plenty of other material options, you will see most residential homes, and even many businesses, with asphalt shingle roofing. Manufacturers sometimes make shingles with embedded fiberglass, cellulose, granules, sealants, and release film materials. These materials help to add to the strength of the shingles and make them waterproof without causing a change in appearance. |
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For a list of options and quote, call us at 804-419-7611 and we will be glad to assist you.
There are three primary types of asphalt shingles:
1) 3-tab
2) Architectural (also called Dimensional)
3) Luxury
All three are made in a similar manner, however there are a few differences which are important to understand.
3-Tab
These are the most basic shingles, made of one layer of asphalt and cut into rectangles. They are flat and press together tightly, giving the roof a slate-like look. Since they are small, they are relatively lightweight and easy to deal with. They tend to be less expensive than the other types due to the absence of some of the materials other types contain.
They are more prone to blowing off than the other shingles since they are so light, but they are also inexpensive so keeping an extra bundle or two is a practical option. A roofer can replace blown off shingles relatively easily. Their expected lifetime is 18 to 20 years.
Architectural
These are the most popular shingle in the country. They are thicker than 3-Tab, given at least 2 layers to create a multi-dimensional look to the finished roof. They contain all the best preservatives and adhesives available for asphalt shingles. Since they can be designed to look like wood shake or slate, they can actually add a different aesthetic to the roof, improving curb appeal.
These are a heavy product, adding quite a bit of weight to the roof, but they are also more robust due to their multiple layers.
These typically come with a 30 year warranty. We have seen many cases where these shingles were not installed properly, causing them to get blown off prematurely. When done right, you should expect 25 to 30 years out of them. Architectural shingles are often seen in 30-year, 40-year, and 50-year varieties, with costs increasing as the thickness increases. We have found that the 30-year architectural shingle provides the best value for the money, costing about 20% more than the 3-Tab shingle but lasting significantly longer and providing a much improved appearance.
Luxury Shingles
As you might expect, these are the top of the line in asphalt shingles, offering maximum durability, multi-dimensional appearance, and are still less expensive than cedar or slate. Due to their added durability, they are most often found in hurricane, tornado, or hail-prone areas. They are very resistant to flying debris. They can be made to very closely resemble wood shake or slate, and come is a huge variety of colors.
They weigh more than 30-year architectural and cost about twice as much as 3-Tab. You can expect 25 to 30 years out of these also. They are not as popular at 30-year architectural in most areas of the country, including the Richmond area.
Summary
If you are looking for something that is both reliable and budget-friendly, asphalt shingles should be high on the list. The number of shapes, designs, and colors is unmatched by other shingles. As a result, they do well with odd shaped roofs and unusual house styles. Asphalt shingles can be treated with algae-resistant substance to prevent growth.
If your goal is the most longevity or durability, other options might be more attractive, however these are naturally fire resistant, durable, long-lasting, and relatively inexpensive, a combination that makes them by far the most popular choice.
Below are a few pros and cons of asphalt shingles compared to other types.
Pros:
These shingles are one of the most affordable roofing material options, ranging in price from $70 to $120 a square foot, depending on the manufacturer and installer.
Asphalt shingles come in many colors, blending well with plenty of building designs. There are also various design options, including dimensional, premium, and three-tab options. Manufacturers can also design some shingles to look like other materials, including slate.
Because roofing contractors install asphalt shingles as an entire system, that includes underlayment, they can help homes to become more energy-efficient.
Those who live in areas of the country where high winds occur should consider investing in an asphalt shingle roof. This material can withstand winds because of recent innovations that have changed the way shingles are manufactured and installed, making them less likely to lift.
Cons:
One of the biggest drawbacks of choosing asphalt shingles is the lifespan. On average, these roofs last twenty to thirty years before needing to be replaced.
These shingles are also not fit for very extreme temperatures, particularly cold. Contractors must take care to install them correctly since temperatures below freezing can cause problems with damage during the installation.
1) 3-tab
2) Architectural (also called Dimensional)
3) Luxury
All three are made in a similar manner, however there are a few differences which are important to understand.
3-Tab
These are the most basic shingles, made of one layer of asphalt and cut into rectangles. They are flat and press together tightly, giving the roof a slate-like look. Since they are small, they are relatively lightweight and easy to deal with. They tend to be less expensive than the other types due to the absence of some of the materials other types contain.
They are more prone to blowing off than the other shingles since they are so light, but they are also inexpensive so keeping an extra bundle or two is a practical option. A roofer can replace blown off shingles relatively easily. Their expected lifetime is 18 to 20 years.
Architectural
These are the most popular shingle in the country. They are thicker than 3-Tab, given at least 2 layers to create a multi-dimensional look to the finished roof. They contain all the best preservatives and adhesives available for asphalt shingles. Since they can be designed to look like wood shake or slate, they can actually add a different aesthetic to the roof, improving curb appeal.
These are a heavy product, adding quite a bit of weight to the roof, but they are also more robust due to their multiple layers.
These typically come with a 30 year warranty. We have seen many cases where these shingles were not installed properly, causing them to get blown off prematurely. When done right, you should expect 25 to 30 years out of them. Architectural shingles are often seen in 30-year, 40-year, and 50-year varieties, with costs increasing as the thickness increases. We have found that the 30-year architectural shingle provides the best value for the money, costing about 20% more than the 3-Tab shingle but lasting significantly longer and providing a much improved appearance.
Luxury Shingles
As you might expect, these are the top of the line in asphalt shingles, offering maximum durability, multi-dimensional appearance, and are still less expensive than cedar or slate. Due to their added durability, they are most often found in hurricane, tornado, or hail-prone areas. They are very resistant to flying debris. They can be made to very closely resemble wood shake or slate, and come is a huge variety of colors.
They weigh more than 30-year architectural and cost about twice as much as 3-Tab. You can expect 25 to 30 years out of these also. They are not as popular at 30-year architectural in most areas of the country, including the Richmond area.
Summary
If you are looking for something that is both reliable and budget-friendly, asphalt shingles should be high on the list. The number of shapes, designs, and colors is unmatched by other shingles. As a result, they do well with odd shaped roofs and unusual house styles. Asphalt shingles can be treated with algae-resistant substance to prevent growth.
If your goal is the most longevity or durability, other options might be more attractive, however these are naturally fire resistant, durable, long-lasting, and relatively inexpensive, a combination that makes them by far the most popular choice.
Below are a few pros and cons of asphalt shingles compared to other types.
Pros:
These shingles are one of the most affordable roofing material options, ranging in price from $70 to $120 a square foot, depending on the manufacturer and installer.
Asphalt shingles come in many colors, blending well with plenty of building designs. There are also various design options, including dimensional, premium, and three-tab options. Manufacturers can also design some shingles to look like other materials, including slate.
Because roofing contractors install asphalt shingles as an entire system, that includes underlayment, they can help homes to become more energy-efficient.
Those who live in areas of the country where high winds occur should consider investing in an asphalt shingle roof. This material can withstand winds because of recent innovations that have changed the way shingles are manufactured and installed, making them less likely to lift.
Cons:
One of the biggest drawbacks of choosing asphalt shingles is the lifespan. On average, these roofs last twenty to thirty years before needing to be replaced.
These shingles are also not fit for very extreme temperatures, particularly cold. Contractors must take care to install them correctly since temperatures below freezing can cause problems with damage during the installation.
Concrete & Clay Tiles
Concrete and clay tiles offer rich detail and luxury to a roof. They are available in many design options and colors, offering home and business owners a range of choices. These tiles are one of the oldest roofing material options, dating back for centuries.
There are a few differences between clay and concrete roofing tiles which we will take a look at here. Clay has been around for so long that these tiles evolved into the same category due to their similar appearance, even though they are not exactly the same.
Concrete Tiles
These strong tiles last the lifetime of the structure and are highly resistant to wind issues, tested to sustained winds of 180 mph. Most of these are also resistant to hail impact and freeze/thaw resistant also. They are all Class A fire tested.
They are made similar to regular concrete that is molded and fired under high pressure and heat. They can be molded into flat, low profile, or high profile tiles based on the amount of curve desired. They can be made to simulate wood shake, slate, or stone.
Concrete is naturally more absorbent of water than clay, which can make then more prone to mold/mildew and stains. It also adds weight to them when they are wet. They start about 40% heavier than clay, so a roof must be structurally able to withstand the weight of concrete before it can be considered.
Concrete is not prone to cracking when used on a roof so it can be used in virtually any climate, however as a result of its weight and water absorption , it requires more maintenance. The concrete tiles will often begin to develop a darkening layer of mildew that is very noticeable. Removing it requires special equipment and a professional schooled in this type of work. Broken tiles can allow harmful UV rays to penetrate to the underlayment and cause damage. They should be replaced as soon as they are found.
You can paint or clear-coat concrete to add color and shine to the roof, though this will fade over time. And the paint will not prevent staining, as mentioned above.
Clay Tiles
Clay absorbs much less water than concrete and is therefore less prone to mold and mildew forming on it. Clay is also much lighter than concrete, requiring less support from the roof structure.
Despite being much less water adsorbent, clay is prone to cracking in freezing temperatures, which is the biggest reason it is found predominately in warmer climates. High heat has no impact on clay
Although home and business owners sometimes install roofing materials themselves, a professional contractor must install tiles. There is a lot of work involved in installing a clay or concrete tile roof, and contractors must take care to ensure the building will withstand the added weight.
The addition of texture and elegance of concrete and clay tiles is popular in Southwestern, Spanish, and Mediterranean homes. Other home designs would fit well with a clay or concrete tile roof as well.
Pros:
Tiles are weatherproof and able to withstand high winds and fires.
These tiles are highly durable and can last fifty years or more, with proper care.
Unlike some types of roofing materials, tiles are pest-resistant, so they are less likely to invite small animals to chew through them for nesting material.
These tiles are also a sustainable roofing material choice because they are made from the earth.
Tile roofing materials are available in many styles and colors, so it is entirely possible to match them with a home.
The gaps under these tiles help to block sun exposure, allowing for better energy efficiency in the home.
Cons:
Concrete and clay tiles are very heavy and sometimes require framing for a house or business to withstand the weight. If necessary, this can be quite costly.
This roofing option is also expensive. The costs can range from $300 to $500 a square foot.
Concrete and clay have a unique look that may not be suited for all styles of homes. They are most often found in south and southwest areas due to the lack of frigid temperatures and their appeal with stucco-sided homes.
Commonwealth Roofing - the best roofing company in Richmond Va
Metal
Metal is a material that has been used in roofing for hundreds of years. With proper maintenance, metal roofs can last much longer than other types. Many people choose this material for its durability alone. Plus it is light weight, requiring a less robust roof infrastructure.
Unlike shingled roofs, metal does not break down and is less likely to become damaged during storms. It is weather-resistant and needs very little upkeep.
Metal is available in many designs and colors, making the options almost limitless. Metal sheets can be stamped and even made to look like shingled or shaker roofs.
Pros:
Metal roofs can last over fifty years, with some lasting as long as one hundred years.
Because metal roofs are highly reflective, they help keep cooling costs down, making homes more energy-efficient. The metal reflects much of the heat keeping it out of your attic.
Metal roofing is also lightweight, so it can be installed on just about any building, with no frame reinforcement. Depending on the gauge of the metal, it can weigh from around .7 to 1.3 pounds per square foot, as opposed to asphalt at 2+ pounds per square foot and tile which can weigh upward of 10 pounds per square foot.
A metal roof does not require a lot of upkeep. It can be painted or sealed with a clear coating that lasts for years.
This roofing material is also environmentally friendly because it can be recycled in its entirety.
Metal roofs are fire-resistant with a Class A fire rating, making them ideal for areas of the country where wildfires are common.
Cons:
Metal roofing is somewhat on the expensive side, with costs ranging from $100 to $300 per square foot. However if you plan to be in your home for a long time, the up-front cost is offset by the durability and low seasonal maintenance. Youi might replace a shingle roof a couple of times in the lifetime of a metal roof.
Because the installation requires extensive training, property owners may pay more in installation costs.
Metal is a material that has been used in roofing for hundreds of years. With proper maintenance, metal roofs can last much longer than other types. Many people choose this material for its durability alone. Plus it is light weight, requiring a less robust roof infrastructure.
Unlike shingled roofs, metal does not break down and is less likely to become damaged during storms. It is weather-resistant and needs very little upkeep.
Metal is available in many designs and colors, making the options almost limitless. Metal sheets can be stamped and even made to look like shingled or shaker roofs.
Pros:
Metal roofs can last over fifty years, with some lasting as long as one hundred years.
Because metal roofs are highly reflective, they help keep cooling costs down, making homes more energy-efficient. The metal reflects much of the heat keeping it out of your attic.
Metal roofing is also lightweight, so it can be installed on just about any building, with no frame reinforcement. Depending on the gauge of the metal, it can weigh from around .7 to 1.3 pounds per square foot, as opposed to asphalt at 2+ pounds per square foot and tile which can weigh upward of 10 pounds per square foot.
A metal roof does not require a lot of upkeep. It can be painted or sealed with a clear coating that lasts for years.
This roofing material is also environmentally friendly because it can be recycled in its entirety.
Metal roofs are fire-resistant with a Class A fire rating, making them ideal for areas of the country where wildfires are common.
Cons:
Metal roofing is somewhat on the expensive side, with costs ranging from $100 to $300 per square foot. However if you plan to be in your home for a long time, the up-front cost is offset by the durability and low seasonal maintenance. Youi might replace a shingle roof a couple of times in the lifetime of a metal roof.
Because the installation requires extensive training, property owners may pay more in installation costs.
Slate
Slate is a natural material available in shades of gray, blue, purple, red, and black. It brings a stately air to any building and is a sustainable choice that is good for the environment because it can be recycled.
Having a slate roof installed on a home or business is an investment that improves the value of the home. Slate is a wise choice that offers homeowners better energy efficiency.
Slate roofing provides a beautiful look for any home. It can fit with many types of home designs, including Colonial, French, and European. It is often found on roofs with steep pitches due to its weight.
Pros:
Using slate materials creates a durable roof that should last one-hundred years, and many even pushing 150 years. This is quite an improvement over the typical 20 to 30 year lifespan of shingles.
Slate is naturally fire-resistant, making it a safe option. Slate is completely resistant to air borne sparks from wildfires, fireworks, and even neighboring house fires.
This material does not absorb a lot of water, making it resistant to frost, which is ideal in some parts of the country.
Slate helps to improve the architectural beauty of any home or business. This is the most common reason homeowners go with slate. It creates a stately presence that surpasses all other roofing materials. It comes in a variety of thicknesses and sizes, as well as a large range of colors.
Some people refer to slate as a forever roof because it never needs to be replaced.
Slate is a natural material that is sustainable and recyclable.
Cons:
This material is extremely heavy and could end up requiring extra framing to support the additional weight. Depending on the thickness of the slate, it can run from 8 to about 15 pounds per square foot. This is extremely heavy and a roof must be constructed to accommodate this kind of weight.
The fact that very few roofing contractors know much about slate seems not to be a deterrent from they taking a whack at installing them. There is an art to doing this correctly, and a poorly installed slate roof will start having problems immediately. Make sure your contractor has the requisite experience with these kinds of roofs before even thinking about getting them to install one.
Slate is also expensive and averages around $600 per square foot, coming in at 5 times some less expensive options. Typically the homeowner who opts for slate has a relatively expensive home and is choosing it for the statement it makes. Slate when done right is absolutely stunning. Of course it will last 5 times as long as other options as well, but it is hard to justify the cost based solely on that. Most people don't care that 100 years from now the roof will still look good.
Slate is a natural material available in shades of gray, blue, purple, red, and black. It brings a stately air to any building and is a sustainable choice that is good for the environment because it can be recycled.
Having a slate roof installed on a home or business is an investment that improves the value of the home. Slate is a wise choice that offers homeowners better energy efficiency.
Slate roofing provides a beautiful look for any home. It can fit with many types of home designs, including Colonial, French, and European. It is often found on roofs with steep pitches due to its weight.
Pros:
Using slate materials creates a durable roof that should last one-hundred years, and many even pushing 150 years. This is quite an improvement over the typical 20 to 30 year lifespan of shingles.
Slate is naturally fire-resistant, making it a safe option. Slate is completely resistant to air borne sparks from wildfires, fireworks, and even neighboring house fires.
This material does not absorb a lot of water, making it resistant to frost, which is ideal in some parts of the country.
Slate helps to improve the architectural beauty of any home or business. This is the most common reason homeowners go with slate. It creates a stately presence that surpasses all other roofing materials. It comes in a variety of thicknesses and sizes, as well as a large range of colors.
Some people refer to slate as a forever roof because it never needs to be replaced.
Slate is a natural material that is sustainable and recyclable.
Cons:
This material is extremely heavy and could end up requiring extra framing to support the additional weight. Depending on the thickness of the slate, it can run from 8 to about 15 pounds per square foot. This is extremely heavy and a roof must be constructed to accommodate this kind of weight.
The fact that very few roofing contractors know much about slate seems not to be a deterrent from they taking a whack at installing them. There is an art to doing this correctly, and a poorly installed slate roof will start having problems immediately. Make sure your contractor has the requisite experience with these kinds of roofs before even thinking about getting them to install one.
Slate is also expensive and averages around $600 per square foot, coming in at 5 times some less expensive options. Typically the homeowner who opts for slate has a relatively expensive home and is choosing it for the statement it makes. Slate when done right is absolutely stunning. Of course it will last 5 times as long as other options as well, but it is hard to justify the cost based solely on that. Most people don't care that 100 years from now the roof will still look good.
Commonwealth Roofing - A Richmond Va roofing company
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Homeowners also have the option of wood shingles and shakes. Many property owners love the rustic look of wood shingles and shakes, especially as they age. Machines are used to cut wood shingles, while shakes are cut by hand.
As these roofing materials become weathered, they turn a beautiful gray color that is prized among those who prefer this old-world look. This style of roofing material is ideal for bungalows, Cape Cods, cottages, and Craftsman homes.
These are made by splitting logs into pieces ranging from 1/4 to about 1 inch thick. Once the wood is cut, pressure treatments and additives like chromium and copper are added to prolong the life of the wood and make it more resistant to insects, fungus, mold, and rotting. Typical types of wood used to make shingles include Cypress, Redwood, Spruce, Cedar, and Pine.
Pros:
Wood shingles and shakes have been a popular choice for hundreds of years and were the go-to roof material of choice before the development of asphalt shingle roofs.
This roofing material is sustainable, so it is good for the environment. Manufacturers typically make the shingles and shakes from cedar, southern pine, or redwood.
These shingles and shakes are naturally resistant to the weather, insects, and ultra-violet rays. In particular, they are very resistant to wind damage, which can wreak havoc on asphalt shingles.
Wood shingles and shakes help to insulate homes, making them more energy-efficient. Wood is an outstanding insulation material that can keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Choosing this roofing material helps to add stability to a roof, making it much stronger. Cedar and Redwood are particularly strong.
Cons:
Because of the fire codes in some parts of the country, this material cannot be used in every state. Wood is flammable and is not recommended in fire-prone areas.
It is not a good choice for wet climates because of molding and splitting. Wood requires frequent treatments and protective coatings to prevent these problems, and is considered a relatively high maintenance product.
Synthetic Slate and Shingles
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There are now synthetic options on the market, and they are increasing in popularity. Manufacturers may make these roofs from rubber, polymer, and plastic. They can be made to look like many other roofing materials, including slate and asphalt shingles.
One of the biggest benefits of these materials is the durability. Synthetic materials are also fire resistant and made to last for many years. Before choosing this material type, home and business owners need to research as much as possible and ask to see full-sized samples of the material before deciding.
Pros:
These materials are suitable for the environment because they can be recycled.
Synthetic materials are highly resistant to weathering, insects, and UV damage.
Synthetic roofing is also resistant to the wind and is impact resistant.
Home and business owners will find this roofing is much less expensive than slate, averaging about $300 per square foot.
Synthetic roofing materials can work with a variety of different homes and are typically warrantied to last up to fifty years.
Cons:
The quality of this roofing material can vary, so it is important to choose wisely.
Because synthetics are new, they have not been quality tested for the long haul.
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There are now synthetic options on the market, and they are increasing in popularity. Manufacturers may make these roofs from rubber, polymer, and plastic. They can be made to look like many other roofing materials, including slate and asphalt shingles.
One of the biggest benefits of these materials is the durability. Synthetic materials are also fire resistant and made to last for many years. Before choosing this material type, home and business owners need to research as much as possible and ask to see full-sized samples of the material before deciding.
Pros:
These materials are suitable for the environment because they can be recycled.
Synthetic materials are highly resistant to weathering, insects, and UV damage.
Synthetic roofing is also resistant to the wind and is impact resistant.
Home and business owners will find this roofing is much less expensive than slate, averaging about $300 per square foot.
Synthetic roofing materials can work with a variety of different homes and are typically warrantied to last up to fifty years.
Cons:
The quality of this roofing material can vary, so it is important to choose wisely.
Because synthetics are new, they have not been quality tested for the long haul.
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Roofing professionals near me
We have decades of experience installing residential and commercial roofing. Whether you have a roofing option in mind or need ideas, our Richmond Va based roofing company specialists will help you select the perfect roof for your home or business. The quality of our products and craftsmanship will speak for themselves and prove our dedication to providing you with a roof you will love. For the best roofing company in Richmond Va, you have come to the right place.
Service Areas
Richmond
Chesterfield
Glen Allen
Midlothian
Chester
Henrico
Short Pump
Hanover
Ashland
We have decades of experience installing residential and commercial roofing. Whether you have a roofing option in mind or need ideas, our Richmond Va based roofing company specialists will help you select the perfect roof for your home or business. The quality of our products and craftsmanship will speak for themselves and prove our dedication to providing you with a roof you will love. For the best roofing company in Richmond Va, you have come to the right place.
Service Areas
Richmond
Chesterfield
Glen Allen
Midlothian
Chester
Henrico
Short Pump
Hanover
Ashland