ROOF CLEANING TIPS FOR SPRING

We all know the saying: April showers bring May flowers. But what else does spring bring? You might be surprised to find out that spring brings a lot of opportunities for roof damage. This is because your roof just withstood cold temperatures and extreme weather patterns for multiple months. Whether it’s damage from the previous season or new problems brought by spring conditions, now is an excellent time to start looking into those and work with a roofing company to fix any issues or vulnerable areas. Oregon Roof Guys is the #1 roofing company in Lane County, and we are eager to help you with roof maintenance or replacement all year round. Here are a few issues you should look out for, and roof cleaning tips to keep them from popping up.

MOSS

You might think moss on your roof looks rustic, but it can cause some serious issues. It can eventually damage the structure of your roof by uplifting shingles, holding moisture, staining your roof, forming a slippery and dangerous surface, and promoting the growth of bacteria and mold. Something to remember is that moss thrives in moisture. When winter and spring weather comes, it often brings rain and snow. One roof cleaning tip to avoid moss growing on your roof is by trimming trees and any overhanging branches casting excess shade to help prevent future moss and algae growth. For more information on removing and preventing moss growth, check out this blog we wrote about keeping your roof moss free.

PESTS

After the cold months of winter, animals and insects come out of hibernation and look for new places to call home. Roofs and attics are perfect places to build nests. Any hole, even a tiny one, puts your house at risk of unwanted roommates. One way to prevent this is by trimming trees. Like we said in the point above, trimming trees is a constructive way to maintain your roof. Trimming trees deters pests from easily reaching your roof and making themselves at home. However, the most effective way of ensuring unwanted guests stay out is by calling a roofing professional. The team at Oregon Roof Guys will give you a free estimate on all your roof repairs and replacements. We will find even the smallest hole and offer the best solution for your specific need. Visit our website for more insight into our process and how we evaluate and service your roof.

GUTTERS

This is a well-known spring-cleaning task, but it bears repeating. Cleaning your gutters prevents wood rot, pest invasions, interior damage, and more. For more examples of why cleaning your gutters is essential, take a look at this blog we wrote. To clean them out yourself, you’re going to need a ladder, some gloves, garbage bags, and a can-do attitude. It’s simple enough but grueling nonetheless. Despite how time-consuming it is, gutter and roof cleaning is essential to your roof’s health. It opens up a pathway for those spring showers to drain and discourages those pesky pests from above from making their homes in your roof.

WATER DAMAGE

Snow, rain, and hail are inevitable. But having moisture get trapped in your roof is avoidable. When leaves, needles, and other debris get wet, they soak into your roof, causing shingle deterioration, wood rot, and leaks. Getting all that debris removed from your roof and gutters helps a lot, but you should also get your roof inspected. Call Oregon Roof Guys to get a free estimate and complete inspection of your roof. A minor investment now could save you from costly repairs and a leaky roof in the future.

SHINGLES

Roof shingles are your first line of defense in protecting your roof and your first sign of the damage that has occurred over the past few months. It’s common to find curled, broken, or even missing shingles throughout your roof. To prevent or fix this, contact your local roofing company. If you’re in Lane County, Oregon Roof Guys are the best of the best. We work with only the best materials, Malarkey shingles, and guarantee our work.

Spring is one of our favorite times of the year, but it’s not without its struggles. If you’re concerned about the state of your roof after this cold winter we’ve had, contact Oregon Roof Guys. From a free estimate to an efficient, full-service job, you’ll be happy with the outcome. We are the #1 roofing contractor in Lane County, and your home deserves the best. So, call today to get ahead of your spring cleaning.

Winter is upon us, and that means you’ve got things to do! Leaks, broken shingles, and more put your roof’s integrity at risk. Each season brings with it its own challenges and necessary maintenance that must be done, especially in a place like Eugene, Oregon. Whether you do it yourself or call someone like Oregon Roof Guys to do it, these items are imperative to ensure the safety of your home during cold weather.

Clean your gutters and downspouts

This is probably the most obvious one for good reason. You don’t want your drainage to be blocked by leaves and other debris, and you don’t want that debris to freeze in there during cold weather. If your gutters are full of this debris, there won’t be anywhere for the water and snowmelt to go, so it will pool up and overflow, which could lead to things like roof rot. This could cause you to have to repair a massive part of your roof come springtime. Damp leaves and twigs are also conducive to critters dwelling in your gutters, who can literally eat away at your roofing. Cleaning your gutters routinely is very important to the health of your roof.

Trim your trees

You may need to hire a professional for this, but no matter what it’s important to make sure tree limbs aren’t going to fall on your roof this winter. Old or damaged branches are at risk of falling and damaging your roof, your car, and your property in general. When those strong winds come, it’s imperative they don’t have something to knockdown. One broken limb could lead you to need an entire roof replacement, or worse. Get those trees trimmed back for your own safety.

Inspect your attic

While it may be creepy up there, inspecting your attic is another important step to take in winterizing your roof. The first thing to check for is the insulation and ventilation. Having good ventilation prevents ice dams from forming. Ice dams can uproot shingles, force off your gutters, and cause run-off water to back up and leak into your home. Another thing to watch out for is small animals. Squirrels can chew through solid wood and make a home in your attic, and when there’s one there’s at least a whole family. That hole they chew can cause other critters to make a home in your attic or cause leaks to form. Either way, checking your attic for these things before cold weather hits is an absolutely necessary step to take to winterize your house.

Winterizing your roof is an important step to take in ensuring your home is as safe as possible. Whether you get torrential downpours or heavy snowfall, your roof takes the brunt of Mother Nature’s winter weather patterns. If you don’t feel comfortable or safe taking these steps yourself, contact the pros at Oregon Roof Guys. We will get your roof in top shape before the worst of winter arrives.

At the Oregon Roof Guys, we know a lot about roofing materials. Asphalt roofing shingles are the most common roofing material because they are extremely cost-effective. If you are interested in learning more about asphalt shingles to see if they are right for you, here is a list of things to consider:

PROS OF ASPHALT SHINGLES

Affordable:

Probably the biggest reason why asphalt roofing shingles are so popular is because they are the most affordable roofing option. If properly installed, asphalt shingles will protect your home for about 7 to 15 years. Although this may be a short-term fix compared to materials like Spanish tile, which can last up to 70 years, the inexpensiveness of asphalt shingles often outweighs long-term protection.

Effective:

While not as durable and long-lasting as other roofing materials (such as metal, slate, clay tiles, and cedar shakes) asphalt shingles provide adequate protection. With its moderate protection next to its low price point, most people find it is the most cost-effective option.

Variety of colors and styles:

There are two types of asphalt shingles: organic and fiberglass. Asphalt coats both types to make them water proof. A fiberglass shingle’s interior is made with a thin mat of glass fiber. Organic shingles are made with a mat fabricated from some kind of wood product, usually waste paper. Both fiberglass and organic shingles come in different styles such as 3-tab, architectural, and premium shingles. 3-tab shingles are the most basic and inexpensive option. Architectural shingles are slightly more expensive and are more aesthetically pleasing as they often have a 3D effect with varying tones and patterns, and some imitate the look of wood or slate shingles. Also, architectural shingles are more weatherproof as they are less prone to wind uplift than 3-tab shingles.

Easy Installation:

While it does take some skill to properly install asphalt shingles, they require less specialized training and can quickly be installed in one to two days, depending on the size of the job and if the old shingles have to be removed first.

Can be made with different features:

Not all asphalt shingles are created equal, some are better than others! For example, Malarkey shingles, the only brand we trust, create 3 different types of shingles that each have a special feature to them. The Highlander Nex AR are algae-resistant architectural shingles that combine intense weathering, durability, and strength. The Vista AR shingles are Class 3 impact rated, with algae-resistance for a minimum of 12 years and a limited lifetime warranty. The Legacy Scotchguard shingles feature exceptional weather-resistance, granule embedment, and a 110 mile wind warranty. All of them reduce air pollution and are made of recycled materials, so you can be sustainable without even trying.

If you are in need of a roof replacement in Eugene, the Oregon Roof Guys are your trusted roofing contractors. Give us a call to schedule an appointment or contact us through our new website!

The style of your roof can help you determine which types of roofing materials is best for it.

We’ve listed out several of the most popular roofing styles and which kinds of materials work best for each of them. For more information about your roof, contact the Oregon Roof Guys as your trusted roofing contractors in Eugene, Oregon.

GABLE

A gable roof is classic and one of the most popular roof styles in the U.S. They are easily recognized by their triangular shape and can also adorn dormer windows and porches.

Materials often used for gable roofs include asphalt, wood shakes, or slate shingles. Asphalt is a more lightweight and cost-effective material. Wood and slate options often require additional reinforcement to accommodate the added weight. If your gable roof also has hips and valleys, it is more susceptible to leaks. Therefore, it would be best protected by such lifetime materials as shingles.

HIP

Close in competition with the gable roof for most popular style is the hip roof. A hip roof has slopes on all four sides. The sides are all equal length and come together at the top to form the ridge.

Almost any common material can be used for a hip roof. Choosing the right types of roofing materials will largely be a question of budget and personal taste. Tile or clay will perhaps be a better match for Mediterranean-inspired styles. For cottage and ranch homes, traditional shingles may be a better choice.

GAMBREL

It is one of the most popular roof styles for barns, but can also be frequently spotted on residential construction. Closely related to a mansard, a gambrel features a steeper pitch at the top angle, which is more easily visible from the ground.

Metal is growing in popularity, due to its high durability, longevity and low maintenance requirements. Still, slate, wood and asphalt shingles are most commonly used.

MANSARD

A mansard roof has two slopes on every side, the lower slope being considerably steeper than the upper. A mansard can appear like a gambrel roof, but it differs by displaying the same profile on all sides.

One important factor to consider is that the weight distribution on mansards is minimal due to the steep slope, and soft asphalt shingles often fall off prematurely, due to their light weight and weak “structure”. We recommend using other, more durable types of roofing materials, such as tile, slate, wood shingles or metal panels. Using metal, such as copper or zinc for the steep portion of the roof, can be more expensive up front, but will require much less maintenance down the road, making it a good long-term choice.

BUTTERFLY

A butterfly is a V-shaped roof constructed of two tandem pieces which are angled up on the outside. The butterfly roof is popular for
modern, Eco-friendly and tropical home designs. If you’re considering a butterfly roof, you’ll need to make sure you choose a material which lends itself well to waterproofing. You can install continuous, solid membranes with no seams, such as PVC or TPO, or metal for lifelong protection.

FLAT

As the name suggests, flat roofs appear to be completely flat with no pitch. However, they do have a slight pitch to allow for water runoff and drainage.

EPDM rubber is the material most frequently used on flat roofs. However, if you are looking for a long-lasting, leak-free material, it is best to go for a TPO or PVC membranes, because they do not have seams and are impervious to water.

COMBINATION

Combination roofs are used to complement a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to ultra-modern. The materials will vary, depending on the elements you choose to integrate.

SPRING CLEANING CHECKLIST FOR YOUR ROOF

May 3, 2018
As professional roofing contractors in Eugene, Oregon, the Oregon Roof Guys want to make sure you’re maintaining a healthy roof. Spring is a perfect time to inspect your roof for damage and normal wear and tear. If you find any damage during your roof inspection, give us a call and we’ll schedule an appointment to come take a look. Read on to learn about some items to add to your spring cleaning checklist for your roof.

CLEAN AND INSPECT GUTTERS

Clean gutters are important for a healthy roof. Adding a gutter and downspout cleaning to your spring cleaning checklist will ensure water flows off your roof properly and prevents water damage to your home. While cleaning your gutters, make note of any granules that have collected in your gutters and check to see where they are coming from. You may need to replace roofing shingles that have been worn down from losing their asphalt coating over time.

REMOVE AND PREVENT MOSS

Moss holds in moisture, lifts shingles, stains your roof, and can cause serious water damage if left unmanaged. You can remove the bulk of the moss by hand scrubbing and by using a garden hose. If you notice a large build-up of moss or algae during your inspection or don’t feel comfortable working on your roof, contact a roofing contractor that specializes in moss removal and prevention. Having zinc strips installed on your roof is also a great way to prevent future moss growth.

REPLACE MISSING OR BROKEN SHINGLES

Check for any buckling, curling, blistering, and missing shingles. Single shingles can be replaced fairly easily but if it’s more than a couple of rogue shingles that are showing signs of damage then it’s probably a good time to get a consultation with a roofing contractor.

CHECK NEARBY TREES

Overhanging branches can damage your roof shingles and trees that too close to your house risk falling and damaging, not only your roof but your entire home. Springtime is a good time to trim back any overhanging branches and check to make sure all the nearby trees are in good health and not at risk of falling. Maintaining nearby trees will also mean less debris in your gutters.

CHECK YOUR ATTIC

Another item to add to your spring cleaning checklist is making sure your attic is dry and that there are not any cracks of light coming through the roof. Scan the walls and rafters and check for signs of a leaking roof such as moisture, water stains, mold, and mildew.

CHECK ALL THE FLASHING

Flashing is found around chimneys, along the joints of your roof, and surrounding any attic vents and skylights. Flashing that has been separated will need to be resealed with caulking and flashing that is beginning to rust or deteriorate should be replaced. Typically they are made of galvanized steel, which shouldn’t corrode, but it’s wise to check for rust just in case.

INSPECT YOUR CHIMNEY

While inspecting your roof it’s also a great time to simultaneously inspect your chimney. Besides the flashing, check the chimney crown, the bricks and mortar joints, and the flue liner for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you need any help with your chimney, contact our sister company the Oregon Chimney Guys!

Whether it’s a roof repair or roof replacement, contact the Oregon Roof Guys to schedule an appointment today.

Trees are important aspects of your property and also found in abundance here in the Pacific Northwest. Trees can be hazardous to your roof, however, if they are too close to your house. The Oregon Roof Guys have experienced a number of roofs damaged by trees throughout the years and can provide you with a few tips to prevent roof damage from trees.

OVERHANGING BRANCHES

Branches hanging over your home can be a hazard to your roof and it’s important to keep them trimmed to avoid any damage to your home.

Regardless of their weight, hanging branches can harm your roof in a few ways:

• Branches can scrape against your roof shingles and wear down the protective layers of asphalt, causing leaks.
• Damaged and diseased limbs can fall and damage your roof or gutter system.
• Overhanging branches can give termites and other pests easier access to your roof and home.

It’s also important to consider a tree’s potential height and width before planting them too close to your home in order to avoid any future problems.

MOSS & ALGAE GROWTH

Moss and algae thrive in shaded, damp environments and if you have trees too close to your home it can encourage moss growth on your roof.

Moss damages your home by trapping and holding moisture against your roof which can eventually cause major leaks. Moss and algae also stain your roof, cause a slippery and dangerous surface, and moss roots can eventually uplift and separate roof shingles.

Some ways to prevent roof moss include trimming back trees that are casting excessive shade to help prevent future moss and algae growth that causes damage and unsightly black stains on your roof.

FALLEN LEAVES

Fallen leaves and other debris from trees too close to your home can build up on your roof and hold in moisture just like moss and eventually lead to moss and algae growth and leaks. Over time, leaves can prevent water from properly draining off your roof and cause puddles on your roof. Leaves and debris also block gutters which leads to rotting wood, unwanted pests, and interior and foundation damage.

FALLING TREES

The worst damage a tree can do to your home is fall during a storm or when it’s been weakened by pests or disease. A tree falling on your home can cause catastrophic damage to your roof and your entire home.

It’s important to have the large trees near your house inspected by an arborist to make sure they are healthy and not prone to falling for any reason. If a tree near your home is at risk of falling it is critical to have it professionally removed as soon as possible.

If you’re in need of a roof repair, contact the Oregon Roof Guys!

Few things ruin a roof’s integrity more than unsightly moss and algae growth.

Moss thrives in damp, shaded areas, so if you live in the Pacific Northwest, you’ve most likely discovered your roof growing moss at some point.

The Oregon Roof Guys are here to teach you a few techniques on how to prevent your roof from growing moss.

Although moss growth is more of an aesthetic problem in the early stages, it can eventually damage the structure of your roof by uplifting shingles, holding moisture against your roof, staining your roof, forming a slippery and dangerous surface, and promoting the growth of bacteria and mold.

REMOVING EXISTING MOSS

Remove the bulk of the moss by hand scrubbing with a long-handled soft-bristle brush and a garden hose. Spray off your roof with the hose at a downward angle and scrub your roof in a downward motion to avoid lifting any shingles.

Unless you are a skilled professional, it’s best to stay away from the pressure washer as this can remove the shingle granules and cause more damage to your roof.

Chemical washes are also an option to clean your roof. If you decide to use a bleach solution, protect your nearby plants that are vulnerable to the runoff by covering them with tarps or plastic sheeting.

PREVENTING MOSS FROM COMING BACK

North-facing roofs and shaded roofs are the most susceptible to growing moss. Trim trees and any overhanging branches that are casting excessive shade to help prevent future moss and algae growth that causes unsightly black stains on your roof.

Zinc strips are effective in preventing moss growth on roofs. For best results, install zinc strips at the top of the roof just below the ridge or first row of shingles. Rainfall will wash the zinc down your entire roof, creating a protective coating that will prevent future moss and algae growth.

It’s important to note that zinc strips are not meant to clean your roof, (however after a long period of time they might do so), and you should clean your roof prior to installing the zinc strips.

If you have any questions regarding the maintenance and care of your roof, contact the Oregon Roof Guys! We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions. We specialize in roof repair and replacement in the Eugene and Springfield areas.

Even the Smallest Leak in Your Roof Can Quickly Become a Huge Issue

A leaky roof should be made a top priority as water damage can be incredibly destructive and expensive. The Oregon Roof Guys are here to share with you some ways a leaking roof can damage your home.

If your home has a leaky roof, contact us today about our roof repair and replacement services.

Compromised Structural Integrity

The most obvious result of a leaking roof is damage to the wood structure of your home. Beams, studs, joists, rafters, trim, and wall framing begin to rot after exposure to water. In rainy Oregon, this damage can occur quickly, and your ceiling can even fall in if the damage is left unattended for too long.

Attic and Ceiling Damage

The first damage you will have from a leaky roof is to your attic area. If you don’t have an attic, or the leak has spread past it, your interior ceiling will begin to darken with a water stain and plaster will expand and bubble. The water can also damage the drywall and paint on nearby walls and light fixtures on the ceiling.

Higher Energy Bill

A leaky roof usually means an increase in your energy bill. A leak will cause the insulation in your attic area to become saturated and over time will deplete it significantly. If a leaking roof isn’t repaired for too long of a time, your home will lose hot and cool air, resulting in an increase to your utility bill.

Mold and Mildew

If water gets trapped in confined spaces, mold and mildew may begin to grow. Mold can spread throughout your home’s structure using the air system and can invade walls, floors, carpets, furniture, and clothing.

Black mold is the most common type of mold that results from water intrusion. Although the toxic type of black mold is rare, even non-toxic mold can be very difficult and costly to eradicate.

Mold and mildew can cause very serious respiratory health issues. Infants, children, the elderly, people with compromised immune systems, and those with chronic lung disease are particularly vulnerable.

Fire Hazard

If water from a leaky roof reaches the electrical wiring in your attic or ceiling, there is a risk of an electrical fire starting. It is recommended that you turn the electricity off in the area that is affected by water damage.

If you have a leaky roof, be sure to call a professional roofing contractor in Eugene to take care of it as soon as possible. Whether you’re in need of roof repair or a full roof replacement, the Oregon Roof Guys will work with you to make sure your roof is ready to stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws its way.

Fall is officially upon us which means it’s time to prepare your home for those cold, rainy months ahead. One way you can ensure you don’t have any unwanted expenses this season is to maintain and upkeep your gutters. The National Center For Healthy Housing recommends cleaning them during the fall and spring. Neglecting to do so can result in damage to your roof as well as other areas of your home. Here are a few additional reasons why gutter cleaning is important.

ROTTING WOOD

A problem you could potentially face by choosing not to clean your gutters is having the surrounding wood begin to rot. When debris clogs your gutters, the rainwater doesn’t have anywhere to go. This causes it to accumulate in pockets next to the wood that runs along the perimeter of your roof. The surrounding area will begin to mold and rot because of this collection of rainwater.

UNWANTED PESTS

When leaves, branches, and other yard debris accrue in your gutters, it becomes the perfect location for birds, squirrels, and other critters to congregate. If these unwanted pests live in your gutters, it can cause them to overflow and sag. The other pest you should be aware of is ants, as they have a tendency to gather in regions that are moist. The best way to avoid having to deal with them inside your home is to eliminate the areas outside of it where they like to accumulate.

INTERIOR DAMAGE

If your gutters become clogged, there is a good chance that it could lead to interior damage. This happens when the water gets backed up onto the roof and then begins to leak through the shingles, insulation, and drywall. This could then lead to the rotting of wall studs which can result in expensive repairs. The damage can be multiplied if it gets cold enough to freeze over.

CRACKING FOUNDATION

Having the water overflow from your gutters is a clear indication that it’s time to clean them out. If you let this persist, you’re risking damage to the foundation that your home sits on. When water seeps into the foundation, it causes soil expansion which can cause cracks and leakages due to additional pressure being applied to the walls of the foundation. These issues can cause significant problems for your home’s structural integrity and greatly decrease its value.

Gutter cleaning may seem like a project you can tackle down the road, but it’s better to be proactive. If you wait until an issue, such as a leaky roof, arises you may have to spend thousands of dollars in roof repairs.

Save time and money this fall by consistently maintaining your gutters. If you’re concerned that you may need your roof checked out before the rain comes, contact the Oregon Roof Guys.