HOW TREES CAN DAMAGE YOUR ROOF

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.

At Oregon Roof Guys, we know that fixing or replacing your roof can be a tedious and even a dangerous task. If you are not experienced in roofing projects, here are some reasons why you should hire a professional roofer instead of doing it yourself.

SAVE TIME AND MONEY WITH A PROFESSIONAL ROOFER

Even if you are excellent at DIY tasks, tackling your own roofing project may be tougher and more time-consuming than you think. By the time you purchase all the materials — and the right amount of materials — you may realize the extensive amount of time and money you have already spent isn’t worth it. Hiring a professional who already has all the necessary equipment on hand, and knows exactly how much material to order, will save you a lot of time, money and stress.

A PROFESSIONAL ROOFER CAN GET QUALITY MATERIALS

Professional roofing contractors know the kind of material to order, how much to order, and where to get it from. A DIYer will only have access to materials in stock at their local home improvement store. Roofing companies make professional relationships with roofing manufacturers and can get quality-grade materials rather than just using what’s in stock at local stores.

SAFETY

Professional roofing contractors are trained to work safely while on top of roofs. They have safety equipment like harnesses to prevent them from falling and injuring themselves. If an accident does happen, roofing contractors are insured to protect themselves and their clients.

A PROFESSIONAL ROOFER HAS EXPERIENCE

No amount of internet or YouTube research can replace real-life experience. Even the most competent DIYer can find difficulties if they have never worked on a roof before. Your roof isn’t something worth testing your skills on and it’s important to get it done right the first time to avoid any additional costs to fix it.

PEACE OF MIND

When you hire a professional roofing contractor, you can rest assured that the job will be done efficiently and effectively. Knowing your home is in the good hands of the Oregon Roof Guys will bring you a sense of security. You will have peace of mind knowing your roof was installed properly, with quality materials, by licensed and experienced professionals.

THE OREGON ROOF GUYS PROVIDE ROOF INSPECTIONS AND ROOF REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENTS.

Whether you’re in need of a roof repair or a full roof replacement, the Oregon Roof Guys will work with you in a timely and professional manner to make sure your roof is ready to stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or if you’d like to get a quote for your next roofing project.

The hot, sunny days of summer are officially gone, and winter is quickly approaching. If last year’s bizarre weather taught us anything, it’s that we need to take precautions to limit the damage that ice can cause to our homes. By taking the appropriate measures, you can limit the risk that ice poses to your home and avoid dealing with extensive and expensive roof repairs. The key to avoiding roof damage is knowing what to expect ahead of time and taking the necessary precautions.

Protect your house this winter by following these tips.

ENSURE ROOF DRAINAGE IS UNIMPEDED

Winter in Eugene is typically characterized by rain, lots and lots of rain. When it gets cold enough, that rain becomes ice and snow and starts to pile up on your roof. It’s extremely important that your roof is still capable of draining excess water.

Make sure your gutters are free from obstruction, especially after serious ice and snowstorms. A clogged gutter will cause the water to back up and overflow onto the side of your home. Not only does this mean that water isn’t being properly drained away from your home, but it may also cause your gutters to pull away from your home and be damaged due to the additional weight.

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR OVERHANGING BRANCHES

Before it’s too late, take the time to quickly inspect the perimeter of your property for tree branches that are hanging over your roof. With the added weight from snow and ice, these branches may break off and damage your roof. By pruning these branches, you remove the possibility of them falling onto your home during or after an ice storm.

REPAIR LEAKS ASAP

While leaks aren’t only a problem during the winter, they often go unnoticed or unaddressed during the colder months. This can be problematic as leaks can lead to structural damage to ceiling joints, rafters, and wall framing. The exposure to moisture can also cause the surrounding wood to mold and deteriorate.

Waiting to fix a leak could potentially lead to a hike in your electricity bill as well. Wet insulation is less resistant to temperature change which means more warm air from your home will escape which will lead to more expensive energy bills.

Many homeowners are unaware that these leaks are also a potential fire hazard as the water that drips through can damage wiring located throughout the ceiling and attic of your home.

Weather in the Pacific Northwest has a reputation for being unpredictable, and last winter was a prime example of that.

This year, be ahead of the curve by preparing your roof for winter weather. By doing so, you will save yourself from the headache of dealing with repairs.

To determine if your roof needs to be inspected before this winter, feel free to contact us through our online form or give us a call today.

Summer has officially reached Eugene, Oregon and that means a much-needed break from the rain. Summer is a good time to inspect your roof for damage and to reach out to your local roof contractors. Before you contact the Oregon Roof Guys, here are a few maintenance tips for roofs to minimize damage and future repair costs.

CLEAN AND REPAIR YOUR GUTTERS

Summer is the perfect time to check and clean your gutters to ensure they are in good, working condition. Clear out all leaves and other debris from your gutters. If gutters become clogged, water won’t drain properly and you may end up with mildew damage and sagging gutters. While inspecting your gutters, be sure to check the brackets holding the gutters in place and the rivets on the downspouts as they may have loosened.

TRIM TREE LIMBS NEAR YOUR ROOF

Hanging tree limbs can scrape your roof, damaging the protective granules on your shingles. This could severely reduce the life of your roof. Trim up any tree limbs that are touching or close to your roof.

CLEAR OFF LEAVES OR PINE NEEDLES

If leaves or pine needles collect on your roof, they retain moisture, foster mildew, block gutters and result in weak spots in your roof. Make sure your roof is clear of any debris so that no excess moisture is held against it.

LOOK OUT FOR SIGNS OF PESTS

Pests such as squirrels, raccoons, and insects can wreak havoc on your roof and home. Check for signs of pests such as rotting areas, soft spots, animal feces, insect damage, and wasp nests.

CHECK FOR MISSING OR DAMAGED SHINGLES

One missing or cracked shingle might not seem like a big deal, but it’s better to catch it and fix it as early as you can to prevent any further damage. If you spot any missing or damaged shingles, be sure to call your local roof contractors for assistance.

Routine roof maintenance is very important and if you find any kind of damage or don’t feel comfortable checking your roof yourself, call the Oregon Roof Guys. We offer roof replacement, roof repair, and annual inspections. Give us a call today!