Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the most common questions we hear from South Jersey homeowners about their roofs.
Everything You Need to Know About Your Roof
Repair vs. Replacement
How do I know if I need a repair or a full replacement?
The answer depends on the age of your roof, the extent of the damage, and the condition of the roof deck underneath. A roof under 15 years old with isolated damage usually warrants a repair. If your roof is 20+ years old, has widespread wear, or the deck is compromised, replacement is often the more cost-effective solution long-term. After a free inspection, we'll give you our honest recommendation with clear reasoning - no guessing required.
How long does an asphalt shingle roof typically last in South Jersey?
A properly installed architectural shingle roof in South Jersey typically lasts 25–30 years with good ventilation and maintenance. Basic 3-tab shingles may last 15–20 years. Factors that reduce lifespan include poor ventilation, inadequate underlayment, storm damage, and improper installation. That's why the quality of installation matters as much as the materials themselves.
Is it okay to put new shingles over existing shingles?
We don't recommend it and we don't do it. Shingling over an existing layer may save money upfront, but it hides the condition of the roof deck, adds weight, reduces the effectiveness of the new shingles, and can void manufacturer warranties. A full tear-off lets us inspect the decking, fix any issues, and start with a clean foundation, which is the right way to do it.
Inspections
How long does a roof inspection take?
Most inspections take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size and pitch of your roof. After the inspection, we'll take time to walk you through our findings and answer any questions before we leave. You'll receive a written summary of what we found.
Do I need to be home for the inspection?
You don't need to be present for the exterior portion of the inspection, but we do recommend being available at the end so we can walk you through what we found and answer questions in person. If you can't be there, we can also share photos and notes with you by phone or email afterward.
What happens after the inspection?
After your inspection, we'll provide a written summary of our findings and a clear, itemized estimate if work is needed. We'll explain your options without pressure. If you decide to move forward, we handle permits, scheduling, and all materials. There's no obligation after an inspection.
Project & Process
What roofing materials do you install?
We specialize in GAF asphalt shingle roofing systems, including architectural (dimensional) shingles and premium designer shingles. As a GAF Master Elite contractor, we install their full roofing system including synthetic underlayment, ice and water shield, ridge caps, and ridge ventilation. We'll recommend the best product for your home, budget, and local climate conditions.
How long does a full roof replacement take?
Most residential roof replacements in South Jersey are completed in a single day. Very large homes or those with complex roof lines may take two days. We'll give you a clear timeline in your estimate. We work efficiently and don't leave jobs half-done overnight without protecting your home.
What should I do to prepare before installation day?
A few simple things help: move vehicles out of the driveway for access, secure or remove fragile items in the attic if accessible, and let pets indoors to keep them safe. We'll walk you through anything specific before your installation date. You don't need to do much - we handle the rest.
Do you clean up after the project?
Absolutely. Full cleanup is part of every project we complete. This includes removing all old roofing materials, packaging, nails, and debris from the property. We sweep the yard and driveway with magnetic rollers to collect any stray nails before we leave. Your property will be clean and safe when we're done.
Financing & Licensing
Can Velocity help with financing?
Yes. We partner with GoodLeap to offer roofing financing for qualifying homeowners. Options include flexible monthly payments, multiple term lengths, and fast approval. Ask us about financing when you request your estimate and we'll provide the details that apply to your project.
Are you licensed and insured in New Jersey?
Yes. Velocity Roofing is fully licensed and insured in New Jersey (HIC LIC #13VH11877900), Maryland (HIC LIC #118714), and Pennsylvania (HIC LIC #171823). We carry full general liability and workers' compensation insurance. We're happy to provide certificates of insurance upon request.
What warranty do you offer?
As a GAF Master Elite certified contractor, we can offer GAF's System Plus and Golden Pledge warranties, which cover both materials AND workmanship. These are some of the strongest warranty options available in the residential roofing industry. We'll explain the warranty options for your specific project during your estimate appointment.
Still Have Questions?
Call us, email us, or submit the contact form and we'll get back to you promptly with a real answer from a real person.