Business Details
42 Years
experience
Expert Roof Consulting Services
Since 1984, Independent Roof Services has been the trusted independent resource for commercial and residential roof system assessment and design across northern New England. Our team specializes in customized roof system design, preventive maintenance programs, and comprehensive inspections to maximize the lifespan and performance of your roof. As an independent consultant with no financial ties to contractors or manufacturers, we provide unbiased recommendations based on decades of industry experience. Our expertise spans from non-destructive roof moisture surveys to repair specifications and roof design, ensuring clients receive accurate, actionable solutions. With over half a century of combined experience in the roofing industry, we prioritize client education and informed decision-making to protect your investment.Our services include visual inspections, infrared and nuclear moisture detection, and collaboration with architects for optimal roof system design. We are committed to delivering cost-effective solutions that extend roof longevity while adhering to industry standards set by organizations like NRCA and SMACNA. Our preventive maintenance programs help clients avoid costly repairs through early defect identification. Headquartered in Pownal, Maine, we serve property owners and designers throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont with reliable, data-driven consulting services.
Services
Roof Inspections
Moisture Surveys
Design Services
Preventive Maintenance
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of independent roofing industry expertise since 1984
- Our team provides unbiased recommendations with no contractor affiliations
- Comprehensive services from infrared moisture detection to design specifications
- Preventive maintenance programs extend roof lifespan beyond warranty periods
- Certified professionals using advanced nuclear and infrared survey technologies
Services
Roof Inspections
Our comprehensive roof inspections identify defects in membranes, flashings, and structural components. We create detailed reports with photographs, scale plans, and repair cost estimates to help extend roof lifespan. Services include annual/biennial maintenance programs that detect issues before they escalate, reducing long-term costs while maintaining warranty compliance.
Moisture Surveys
Using infrared scanning and nuclear gauges, we detect hidden moisture in insulation layers. This non-destructive technology identifies water intrusion points invisible to the naked eye, enabling targeted repairs that prevent system failure. Surveys include thermal imaging reports and verification test cuts to confirm moisture presence while minimizing unnecessary replacements.
Design Services
We develop customized roof designs for new construction and replacements, collaborating with architects to meet code requirements. Our AutoCAD drawings and specifications address structural capacity, drainage, and insulation needs. Services include bid package preparation, contractor selection assistance, and construction administration with quality assurance site visits to ensure proper installation.
Preventive Maintenance
Tailored maintenance plans include scheduled inspections to identify wear, punctures, and weather damage. We document roof conditions, create repair timelines, and provide cost projections to optimize budgeting. Programs help clients maximize warranty benefits while extending service life through early intervention of minor defects like membrane tears and flashing deterioration.
Construction Administration
We manage roof replacement projects from bidding through final inspection. Services include contractor selection, submittal reviews, progress monitoring, and quality control checks during installation. Our oversight ensures compliance with design specifications while protecting owner and contractor interests through clear contractual frameworks and documentation of all project phases.
People
Walter E. Barschdorf
Founder and President
With 50+ years in the roofing industry, Walter founded Independent Roof Services in 1984 after 22 years at Hanhel Bros. Co. His expertise spans sheet metal work, installation, estimating, and construction administration. He continues to lead technical operations and client consultations.
Jayme Barschdorf
Assistant/Drafter
Jayme has supported roof design and documentation since joining full-time in 2014. With AutoCAD certification from Penn Foster and a B.A. from Clarke College, she specializes in creating technical drawings and specifications for new and replacement roof systems.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve commercial and residential clients throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont from our Pownal, Maine headquarters.
Are you affiliated with roofing contractors?
No, we maintain complete independence with no financial ties to contractors or manufacturers to provide unbiased recommendations.
How do moisture surveys work?
We use infrared scanning to detect temperature variations and nuclear gauges to measure hydrogen content, both identifying hidden moisture in roof systems.
Can you help with warranty issues?
Yes, our inspections identify defects not covered by manufacturer warranties, including damage from roof traffic or improper maintenance.
What's included in design services?
We provide AutoCAD plans, specifications, bid documents, and construction administration including site inspections during installation phases.
Do you offer emergency services?
We focus on preventive maintenance and scheduled projects but can assist with urgent moisture intrusion assessments during regular business hours.
