UNDERSTAND THE PARTS OF A ROOF AND HOW TO MAINTAIN THEM

Most people rarely think about their roof, until something goes wrong. However, knowing just a little bit about the different parts of the roof, and how to perform basic maintenance can prevent a variety of problems. Basic maintenance on the various parts can also ensure that when problems do arise, they are not catastrophic, requiring an entire replacement. Here’s a helpful guide briefly explaining the parts of a roof, and tips for keeping it in good condition.

DECKING (SHEATHING)

Beneath the shingles, you’ll find the roof decking, also known as the sheathing. It is the plywood that covers the top of your home. It is also the wood that will absorb the nails that hold your shingles in place. To keep the decking in good condition, you’ll need to properly insulate the attic where applicable, and check to ensure the decking is dry periodically (once every three months).

DRIP EDGE

The metal that is installed at the edge of the decking is called a drip edge. The purpose of the drip edge is to prevent water from saturating the decking and fascia. To maintain your drip edge, plan to clean it once a year, using a hose, brush, and some soap to remove debris.

ICE/WATER SHIELD

In roof valleys (where two edges meet) it’s important to place ice and water shields to prevent any water that does seep through shingles from damaging your decking. Since the ice shield is beneath the shingles, the best way to maintain it is by keeping your shingles in good condition.

FASCIA

Fascia boards are the parts that are placed behind your gutter and cover the roof line. The purpose of the fascia boards is to provide a mounting surface for gutters while covering rafters. Fascia boards also help your roof to look attractive. The best way to maintain these boards is by cleaning your gutters twice a year and inspecting the roof regularly.

UNDERLAYMENT (UNDERLAY MEMBRANE)

Between your roof decking and shingles is the roof underlayment which is installed to protect your decking from the elements. Underlayment is made of asphalt-saturated felt, rubberized asphalt, or synthetic material.

JOINT COVERS (FLASHING)

Joint covers made of steel, aluminum, or plastic serve as molding that prevents water from infiltrating the shingles near chimneys, plumbing vents, and vents. You should examine the flashings yearly to look for signs of rust, cracks, or loose sealant joints.

SHINGLES

Asphalt shingles are the visible parts of a roof. They are nailed to the decking and serve as the primary waterproof barrier, to protect your home from water damage. To maintain your shingles, inspect them twice a year. You may also wish to trim trees to prevent excess debris from accumulating. Missing shingles or shingles that are curling or peeling should be repaired as soon as possible. If you find moss or algae growing on the shingles, you’ll want to use a moss or mold remover rather than a power washer to clear it from the shingles.

ADDITIONAL/OPTIONAL PARTS OF A ROOF

Depending upon the type of roof you have, they may include your attic, a saddle (chimney structure), vents, deflectors, and plumbing vent. To save money on costly repairs and replacement, it’s best to examine all visible parts at least once a year. If you don’t have the tools or time, you can always schedule a professional inspection.

ROOF DAMAGE IN LANE COUNTY: SHOULD YOU REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR ROOF?

If you have damage that extends deeper than your shingles, it is time for a replacement. Replacing your roofing can save you thousands of dollars in utility bills and potential water damage. Oregon Roof Guys is a top-reviewed roof replacement company in Eugene, Oregon. For a free evaluation and estimate, call us today!

So, your roof has seen better days. You’re starting to suspect it needs to be replaced. What are the signs that it is time to replace it? What should you expect from professional roofers? What roofing tools will the professionals use? How long will it take to completely re-roof your house? Read on for answers to these questions, and other frequently asked questions about a roof replacement.

SIGNS IT IS TIME TO REPLACE YOUR ROOF

You may begin to suspect that your roof is beginning to fail if you notice any of the following signs.

• Missing shingles
• Curling shingles
• Pieces (granules) of shingles building up in your gutter, or coming through downspouts
• The valleys (where two angles of the roof meet and water flows) have visible damage
• You have found water damage in your attic
• Roof is becoming discolored
• Roof has extensive moss growth which can compromise the roof’s structural integrity
• Your energy bills are rising

If you notice any of these warning signs of problems with your roof, contact a licensed, insured roofing company to provide you with a free evaluation and estimate.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A ROOF REPLACEMENT

Once you’ve agreed to have your shingle roof replaced, you can expect the following processes to begin. When you work with a top-reviewed roofing company, you can generally expect your roof replacement to begin within 60 days of signing the contract. Once started, the process takes two days on average. During the replacement process, you should expect:

Property Protection

Before a single shingle is removed all decks, patios, and plants will be covered, or moved to protect them.

Shingle Removal

Your roofing contractors will use specialized roofing tools to remove the shingles safely and efficiently on your roof, disposing of them properly into bins.

New Roof Shingle Installation

Your roofers will then install your new roof shingles.

Quality Control Walk Through

Your roofing experts should provide a quality assurance walk-through after the completion.

Warranty Explanation

Your roofing company should offer a warranty on their workmanship and should provide you with all the information about the guarantee of their work, including how long the work is under warranty.

Property Clean Up

The roofing company should leave your home as they found it, cleaning up after the project so that you aren’t stuck having to pick up discarded tools, extra shingles, or other debris.

ROOFING TOOLS USED DURING ROOF REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT

Some or all the following roofing tools will be used to remove your old shingles and replace them:

• Adjustable roof jacks
• Tarps/plywood
• Claw pry bar for nail removal
• Shingle removal shovels (roofing hatchet)
• Shingle removal strippers
• Ladders
• Roofing nails
• Staples
• Safety goggles
• Other roofing tools as needed by the installation team

When you hire a reputable roof replacement company, they will bring all the necessary roofing tools with them. You do not need to purchase these items.

REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE FOR ROOF REPLACEMENT IN LANE COUNTY

Oregon Roof Guy is a top-rated asphalt shingle roof replacement company serving Lane County, OR. Oregon Roof Guys is locally owned and operated. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Serving Lane County homeowners, commercial property owners, and rental property owners since 2010, Oregon Roof Guys offers roof replacement financing, and the best service, installation, and products available. To request an estimate, send us a message today.

Spring will be here before we know it, which means that it will soon be time to address seasonal storm damage to your roof. So, what is involved in evaluating the condition of your roof? More importantly, if you find damage to your roof, will it need to be replaced? Read on for everything to know about dealing with storm damage to your roof.

SIGNS OF STORM DAMAGE ON YOUR ROOF

Rain, snow, hail, and wind can all damage your roof. When looking for damage to your roof you’ll want to look for the following:

• Missing shingles
• Loose shingles
• Cracked shingles
• Bubbling or blistering shingles
• Peeling shingles
• Worn granules (granule loss)
• Debris on the roof (branches, limbs, etc.)
• Broken or damaged gutters
• Dents in shingles
• Clogged gutters
• Discoloration of shingles

Occasionally storm damage to your roof will result in problems inside your home. At the first sign of water damage inside your home, you’ll need to speak with an experienced roofing company about replacing your roof. Interior water damage due to a storm-damaged roof results in:

• Dark spots on the ceiling
• Wet ceiling
• Wet walls
• Wet insulation in the attic
• Wet framing in the attic
• Flaking drywall

DAMAGE TO YOUR ROOF THAT MAY REQUIRE A ROOF REPLACEMENT

If you can see visible damage to your roof, it is a good idea to have a professional come inspect it. Although it may look like minor damage, there can be underlying issues that must be addressed, often with a roof replacement. Serious damage includes:

• DAMAGE TO THE UNDERLAYMENT
  The underlayment is the waterproof layer underneath the shingles. If the underlayment has been damaged, you’ll likely need to replace the entire roof.
• ROOF DECKING
  The roof decking is vital to the structure of your roof. If these wooden boards have become damaged due to a storm you will need to have your roof replaced.
• MOLD OR WOOD ROT
  If you begin to smell mildew or mold in your home, and cannot identify what is causing the smell, it’s possible that the roof decking may be rotting or molding. Because mold can cause respiratory and other health problems, it’s best to have your roof thoroughly inspected by a professional roofing company.

ROOF REPLACEMENT AFTER DAMAGE: WHAT TO KNOW

Your homeowner’s
insurance may cover some of the cost of a roof replacement. However, each policy has different terms and conditions. For example, many policies will not pay for a roof replacement if the roof is more than 20 years old. If a severe storm is responsible for your roof damage, your insurance may pay for the entire replacement. But, if storm damage results from general wear and tear over the years, you may be responsible for paying for the replacement.

Fortunately, reputable, established roofing companies typically offer financing programs to make roof replacements more affordable.

ROOF DAMAGE IN LANE COUNTY: SHOULD YOU REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR ROOF?

Oregon Roof Guys is a top-reviewed roof replacement company serving all of Lane County, Oregon. To request an estimate, send us a message or call us today!

One of your home’s most essential yet underappreciated aspects is its roof. Your roof truly is the unsung hero of your home and one of the best investments you can make. Yet, for decades, many of us don’t give it a second thought for years at a time. But there it is, standing firmly, protecting your family from the elements, keeping the structure of your home dry and secure, and when properly maintained can easily last over 20 years! So what signs will tell you it’s time for an inspection and possible maintenance or a total roof replacement? Don’t worry, Oregon Roof Guys’ has you covered!

When should I get a roof inspection?

If you are confident in your physical fitness, you should do a spot inspection at least once a year and after any extreme weather events, like hail, snow, and high winds, and keep an eye out for any interior leaks. If it’s been a while since you or a professional last inspected your roof, calling and scheduling a comprehensive free roof inspection is paramount. Here are some warning signs that you should call for an inspection today:

• Your roof is over 20 years old
• The roof looks old and worn
• Moss is present
• Leaks or water spots
• Your neighbors are getting new roofs

What is included in a Roof Inspection?

Shingle Inspection

• Shingle edges
• Bald spots
• Cracked shingles
• Shingles lifting
• Shingles are loose or missing
• Excessive Moss

Roof Deck Inspection

Roof Deck Inspection – When it comes to any construction project, starting with a solid foundation is paramount. The roof deck is the foundation of your roof system, and its integrity can be compromised if exposed to moisture. If you build your roof on a faulty foundation, it will need to be replaced much sooner than a roof built by Oregon Roof Guys. Our roof deck inspection will take note of:

• Type and condition of the roof deck.
• Flashing of eaves and rakes.
• Dry rot areas and soft spots on the roof.
• Typical areas of concern.

Attic Inspection

Attic Inspection – A comprehensive roof inspection requires us to look at the attic. While everything may seem fine from the roof deck, multiple factors can result in excessive moisture originating in the attic that can weaken the integrity of your roof from below. An attic inspection should take note of the following:

• Mold growth
• The presence or smell of mildew
• Dry rot which leads to structural integrity issues
• Excessive moisture spots
• Proper airflow

Roof System Inspection

Your roof system comprises venting, flashing, and engineering solutions specific to your home’s roof. Items we look for in a roof system inspection are:

• Penetration points
• Quality of the flashing
• Issues resulting from improper engineering of the roof system

Once we have compiled the findings from these four crucial areas, if the roof inspection reveals you need a new roof, now or in the near future, we will promptly provide an estimate. Simple as that!

Don’t let your roof go unnoticed any longer. Contact Oregon Roof Guys today for a free comprehensive roof inspection, and ensure your family and your home’s safety for another 20 years!

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.