5 Common Roofing Problems that We See Here in Oregon

1. Damaged Shingles

This is the easiest way to tell if your roof is in poor condition. When the shingles appear to be curling on the ends, decaying, broken, missing, cracked, balding, lifting, or separating, these are all signs that it’s time to have the roof fixed or part of it replaced. Most of the time shingle damage is caused by rainfall, excess moisture, or improper installation. If you do notice that any of the roofing shingles are damaged, take care of it right away. Some companies like ours have a guarantee on our work. We will come out and fix it right away if it was due to improper installation. And if you have any questions about how to care for your roof to ensure it lasts longer, we are happy to talk with you.

2. Moss

Have you ever driven by a home and saw something like grass growing on their roof. It is very common here in Salem because of the humid weather and constant rain. Many think having moss can give their home a “natural look” and not worry about it, and if it’s just some moss that you’re able to wash off then it isn’t very bad, but it can cause constant damage to a roof if it gets neglected for a long period of time. The moss traps and soaks up rainwater which will then go under the roofing shingles and eventually soak the roof sheathing (a strong layer of wood boards that are fixed to your roof’s joists and trusses). This will reduce structural integrity and can lead to mold and decay. This would be a much more expensive fix in the end.

3. Leaks & Excess Moisture

Do you see any water stains on the ceiling? Does your ceiling look like its caving? Is moisture being trapped in the attic? These are signs of roof damage. Moisture can not only lead to the rotting of the framing and other support beams, but it can also lead to the growth of mold which can be extremely dangerous to breathe in. Living in rainy states, such as Oregon, it’s always a good idea to contact a roofing specialist to access any areas where humidity seems to be trapped or signs of water leaking.

4. Clogged Gutters

A clogged gutter is most likely caused by debris from nearby trees or maybe a bird’s nest. No matter the case, it is always good to check to see what is clogging the gutters and do your best to clean them out as soon as you notice overflow. It’s a good idea to inspect the shingles on your roof while you’re cleaning the gutters. You may notice the shingles deteriorating due to age, severe weather, or heavy rainfall.

5. Sagging and Bowing

If you can see a dip, curve, or wave in your shingles or along the roofline then it may be time to replace your roof. The sagging roof could be caused by a framing issue or rotten/saturated sheathing. If the framing looks straight and everything else from the inside looks good, it may be due to incorrect installation of the shingles or sheathing. Its always good to consult with a professional.

We are always happy to come out and provide a free estimate. We will inspect your roof and see what needs to be repaired, and if it’s not time to replace your roof, we could give you a good idea of when that may need to happen.