Roofing & Restoration FAQ | HammerTime Roofing — Loganville, GA

Question 1

How do I know if my roof needs to be repaired or fully replaced?

Accepted Answer

A repair is usually sufficient for isolated damage — a few missing shingles, a single leak source, or minor flashing failure. Replacement is typically recommended when the roof is 20 or more years old, when damage covers more than 30% of the surface, when granule loss is widespread, or when multiple leaks are present. HammerTime offers free roof inspections so you get an honest assessment before committing to either option.

Question 2

How long does a roof replacement take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential roof replacements in the Loganville and East Metro Atlanta area are completed in one to two days, depending on the size of the home, the pitch of the roof, and weather conditions. Larger or more complex roofs may take an additional day. We work to minimize disruption and clean up thoroughly each day.

Question 3

What roofing materials do you install?

Accepted Answer

We primarily install architectural asphalt shingles, including Owens Corning products as a Preferred Contractor. We also work with impact-resistant shingles, which can qualify homeowners for insurance discounts in hail-prone areas. For flat or low-slope sections, we install TPO and modified bitumen systems.

Question 4

Do you offer a warranty on roofing work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our workmanship is backed by a contractor warranty, and Owens Corning shingles carry manufacturer warranties ranging from limited lifetime coverage on premium products to 25-year coverage on standard lines. We walk you through warranty terms before work begins.

Question 5

What causes a roof to leak even when it looks fine from the ground?

Accepted Answer

Many leaks originate at penetrations — pipe boots, chimney flashing, skylight seals, and valley flashing — rather than in the field of shingles. These areas are invisible from the ground and deteriorate faster than the surrounding shingles. A professional inspection with close-up access is the only reliable way to identify the source.

Question 6

How do impact-resistant shingles affect my insurance premium?

Accepted Answer

Many Georgia homeowners insurance carriers offer discounts for Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. The discount varies by carrier and policy. We recommend contacting your insurance agent before selecting materials to confirm eligibility — in some cases the premium savings can offset a significant portion of the upgrade cost over time.

Question 7

What is the difference between architectural and 3-tab shingles?

Accepted Answer

Architectural (dimensional) shingles have a layered profile that provides better wind resistance and a more attractive appearance than flat 3-tab shingles. Most manufacturers have discontinued 3-tab production; architectural shingles are now the standard for residential replacement. If your existing roof has 3-tab shingles, replacement will almost certainly use architectural shingles.

Question 8

Can you replace my roof in the winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Roofing can be performed year-round in Georgia. Cold temperatures require attention to shingle handling and adhesive activation, but winter replacements are routine. We do not work in active rain or when temperatures are below freezing.

Question 9

How do I know if my roof has hail damage?

Accepted Answer

Hail damage to asphalt shingles typically appears as circular impact marks — dark spots where the granule surface has been knocked away, exposing the underlying mat. On metal components like flashing and gutters, hail leaves visible dents. Damage is not always visible from the ground; a close inspection from the roof surface is required for accurate assessment. HammerTime offers free storm damage inspections.

Question 10

How long do I have to file a storm damage insurance claim?

Accepted Answer

Most homeowner's insurance policies require claims to be filed within one year of the damage event, though some policies have shorter windows. Georgia law does not set a universal deadline for storm damage claims, so your policy terms control. We recommend filing promptly after a significant storm event rather than waiting.

Question 11

What does homeowner's insurance typically cover for roof damage?

Accepted Answer

Standard homeowner's policies cover sudden and accidental damage from covered perils — hail, wind, falling trees, and similar events. Age-related deterioration, wear, and maintenance issues are not covered. Policies vary significantly in how they handle older roofs — some pay actual cash value (depreciated) rather than replacement cost for roofs over a certain age.

Question 12

Do I need a public adjuster?

Accepted Answer

A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents the homeowner in the insurance claim process. They are not required, but some homeowners find them helpful for complex or disputed claims. HammerTime can document damage and provide information to support your claim, but we are not public adjusters and do not represent you in negotiations with your insurance carrier.

Question 13

What is a supplemental claim?

Accepted Answer

A supplemental claim is filed when the initial insurance estimate does not cover the full scope of work — for example, when additional damage is discovered during the repair process, or when material costs have increased since the original estimate. Supplements are common in roofing claims and are a normal part of the process.

Question 14

Can a contractor guarantee my insurance claim will be approved?

Accepted Answer

No. No contractor can guarantee an insurance claim outcome. Be cautious of any contractor who promises to get your claim approved or who offers to waive your deductible — both practices raise legal and ethical concerns. HammerTime documents damage accurately and provides the information your adjuster needs, but the claim decision is made by your insurance carrier.

Question 15

What should I do immediately after discovering water damage?

Accepted Answer

Stop the water source if possible — shut off the supply valve for a plumbing failure, or place a bucket and call a roofer for an active roof leak. Remove standing water with towels or a wet/dry vacuum if safe to do so. Move valuables and furniture out of the affected area. Call a water damage restoration professional as soon as possible — the sooner drying begins, the less secondary damage occurs.

Question 16

How quickly does mold grow after water damage?

Accepted Answer

Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours under warm, humid conditions — which describes most of Georgia's climate for much of the year. This is why prompt response to water damage is critical. Starting the drying process within the first 24 hours significantly reduces the risk of mold growth.

Question 17

What is structural drying and why is it different from just running fans?

Accepted Answer

Structural drying is a controlled process that uses calibrated equipment — air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters — to remove moisture from building materials to established drying goals. Running household fans moves air but does not remove moisture from the environment; it can actually spread moisture to unaffected areas. Professional structural drying establishes measurable targets and monitors progress until those targets are met.

Question 18

Will my floors and walls need to be replaced after water damage?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Many materials can be dried in place if drying begins promptly. Drywall that has been saturated for an extended period, insulation, and flooring with significant contamination typically require removal. The decision is based on moisture readings, contamination category, and material condition — not a blanket policy.

Question 19

What is the difference between Category 1, 2, and 3 water damage?

Accepted Answer

Category 1 is clean water from a sanitary source — a supply line break or overflowing sink. Category 2 (gray water) contains contaminants that may cause illness — dishwasher overflow, washing machine discharge. Category 3 (black water) is grossly contaminated — sewage backup, flooding from outside. The category determines the required remediation approach and affects which materials can be dried in place versus removed.

Question 20

How long does water damage restoration take?

Accepted Answer

Structural drying typically takes 3 to 7 days depending on the extent of the damage and the materials affected. Reconstruction — replacing drywall, flooring, and finishes — is a separate phase that follows successful drying and may take additional time depending on the scope.

Question 21

How do I know if I have mold after water damage?

Accepted Answer

Visible mold growth, a persistent musty odor, or a history of unresolved water intrusion are all indicators. However, mold often grows inside wall cavities, under flooring, and in attic spaces where it is not visible. A professional mold inspection with air sampling and surface testing is the only way to confirm the presence, type, and extent of mold.

Question 22

Is mold dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Mold exposure can cause respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and other health effects, particularly in individuals with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems. Certain mold species produce mycotoxins that pose more serious health risks. If you suspect mold, professional testing and remediation are the appropriate response.

Question 23

What is the difference between mold inspection and mold remediation?

Accepted Answer

A mold inspection identifies whether mold is present, where it is located, and what species are involved through air sampling and surface testing. Mold remediation is the physical removal and treatment process that eliminates the mold and addresses the moisture source that caused it. HammerTime provides both services.

Question 24

Can I just paint over mold?

Accepted Answer

No. Painting over mold does not kill it or stop its growth — it only conceals it temporarily. The mold will continue to grow beneath the surface and the moisture source that caused it will remain. Proper remediation requires removing affected materials, treating the area, and correcting the moisture intrusion.

Question 25

Why is attic mold so common in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Georgia's hot, humid summers create ideal conditions for attic mold. Warm, moisture-laden air enters attic spaces through soffit vents and other openings. If the attic lacks adequate ventilation or if bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans are vented into the attic rather than outside, moisture accumulates on cooler surfaces and mold grows. Inadequate insulation that allows warm air to contact cold surfaces also contributes.

Question 26

Do I need independent clearance testing after mold remediation?

Accepted Answer

Independent clearance testing — performed by a party other than the remediation contractor — is considered best practice for significant mold remediation projects. It provides an objective verification that mold levels have been reduced to acceptable levels. For small, contained remediation projects, clearance testing may not be required, but it is always an option. HammerTime can provide referrals to independent testing professionals.

Question 27

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. HammerTime Roofing & Restoration LLC is fully licensed and insured in Georgia. We carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. We are happy to provide certificates of insurance upon request.

Question 28

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer free roof inspections and estimates for roofing repairs, replacements, storm damage assessments, and gutter work. Water damage and mold assessments are also available — contact us to discuss your specific situation.

Question 29

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

HammerTime serves Walton, Gwinnett, Newton, Rockdale, and Henry counties in Georgia. Our primary service cities include Loganville, Covington, Conyers, Monroe, Snellville, Lawrenceville, Grayson, Lilburn, McDonough, Walnut Grove, Social Circle, Oxford, and surrounding communities.

Question 30

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Call us at (470) 746-8573, email info@ht-roofing.com, or use the Request Estimate form on our website. We'll schedule a free inspection at a time that works for you and provide a written estimate before any work begins.

Question 31

Do you work with insurance companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with all major homeowner's insurance carriers and are experienced with the documentation and communication required for storm and water damage claims. We provide detailed damage reports, photo documentation, and scope of work estimates in formats that support the claims process.

Question 32

What is property restoration and how is it different from roofing?

Accepted Answer

Property restoration refers to the full scope of repair work required after a damage event — not just the roof, but also interior repairs, drywall replacement, flooring, and structural work. HammerTime handles both the mitigation phase (stopping damage and drying) and the reconstruction phase (restoring the property to its pre-loss condition), which simplifies the process for homeowners dealing with insurance claims.

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