Common Roofing Problems in Beaverton’s Rainy Climate
With its wet winters and temperate weather, Beaverton, Oregon, can be hard on your roof’s shingles and structure. The constant rain and dampness cause homeowners a specific set of problems, and waiting until you’re faced with issues that can compromise your roof’s safety is too late. Keith Green Construction, your reliable roofing contractor with more than 32 years of experience, shares kinks in your roofing system’s armor as a result of Beaverton’s rainy weather.
Moss and Algae Growth
One of the most common roofing problems in Beaverton’s rainy environment is the growth of moss and algae. The wet and humid conditions provide the perfect breeding ground for moss, which can grow on roof shingles, particularly on shaded areas. Moss retains moisture, which can trap water against your roof, causing premature aging and deterioration of shingles and underlayment.
If left unchecked, moss can spread, lift shingles, and leave you with gaps through which water can infiltrate. Eventually, this can cause leaks and damage water inside your house. To avoid this, you should do regular roof cleaning and also apply anti-moss treatments. If moss has already become established, a Beaverton roofing company can determine to what extent the damage has occurred and can clear it without investing in the overarching structural integrity of the roof.
Leaks and Water Damage
Leaks are the most significant issue in Beaverton with the rainy weather. When the weather is relentless with heavy rain, your made roof shows what it’s made of, and not everyone takes it well when it gets a good soaking. Leaks can be so small that you don’t notice them, and grow so large that they completely ruin your attic, walls, and ceilings.
Most leaks originate in weak or penetrable spots such as flashing, valleys, skylights, and chimneys. These surfaces must be water-tight to prevent water from penetrating the material. If you see water marks on your ceiling, notice a musty odor, or your attic feels damp, this indicates that water is finding its way into the house. Unattended roof leaks can result in mold, rot, and structural damage. If you feel you have a leak, you’ll want a professional to inspect your roof ASAP!
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is used to seal the seams and joints in your roof where features like chimneys, skylights, or vents penetrate. It prevents water from leaking into these vulnerable areas. Over time, however, due to Beaverton’s constant exposure to moisture, flashing can become damaged or corroded. Rust, cracks, or gaps in the flashing are all signs that it needs repair or replacement.
Damaged flashing can lead to major leaks around penetrations through the roof, particularly during Beaverton’s heavy winter rains. Flashings can also cause mold growth and dry rot, which can be very expensive repairs. Regular checks and maintenance of the flashing are important to keep the roof watertight and ready for continuous rain.
Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are vital to diverting water from your roof, walls, and foundation. This region is very prone to the development of blocked drains, especially during the fall season when everything falls onto your roof. Backed-up gutters can cause water to spill over and damage your roof, siding, and foundation.
Water backed up in gutters may pool around the roofline, leading to leaks and rot. Also, too much water on your roof because of blocked gutters can create added pressure on the building, which may lead to sagging or, in some cases, even a collapse. Keep clean gutters—especially in the fall. Gutter fall cleaning is beneficial to prevent water damage and maintain a healthy roof.
Roof Ventilation Problems
Adequate ventilation is key to maintaining a healthy roof, especially since most homes in Beaverton have a range with the climate swinging back and forth from a wet winter to a dry summer. With inadequate attic ventilation, warm, humid air will be trapped in your attic. This moisture can condense and sit on the underside of your roof, causing rust, rot, and potentially even mold to form.
Poor ventilation can also lead to premature aging of your roof’s materials. If you see signs of condensation or mold in your attic, you might want to consider an inspection of your roof’s ventilation. With the right intake and exhaust vents, you can control how hot and how much your attic gets, helping to avoid shortening roof life.
Shingle Damage and Wear
Asphalt shingles, which are commonly used in Beaverton, can wear down over time due to constant exposure to moisture, wind, and the sun. Shingles will curl, crack, and lose granulation. Their ability to function effectively has been compromised, leaving your roof vulnerable to weather, leaks, and water damage.
Shingles that are already worn down or weathered are more susceptible to water seepage in Beaverton’s rainy weather. Check for missing shingles, granule loss in your gutters, or areas where the shingles are curling or broken, and record the issues for maintenance or replacement before they become a larger problem. Routine roof inspection can bring these issues to the surface before they get out of control and result in costly damage.
Structural Damage from Moisture
Water is the number one enemy of roof damage for any Beaverton area homeowner. Your roof is constantly being bombarded with water, which can erode the support elements of the structure (decking, rafters, trusses). If left unchecked, they may begin to settle, twist, or even collapse.
Rot and mildew are two of the most frequent concerns about extended humidity. In dry rot, wood becomes soft and spongy, and white-colored fungi destroy the wood structure. Mold can also create mold in wet surroundings, which is a health hazard and compounds material damage if you suspect damage to your roof’s structural integrity. In that case, a professional roofing contractor in Beaverton can inspect your roof and address any repairs as needed to maintain the structural integrity of your home.
FAQs
How do I stop moss from growing on my roof?
You may want to think about applying a moss inhibitor or having your roof cleaned and ensuring proper runoff to prevent the moss from returning. An alternative method for staving off moss growth is to add copper or zinc strips at the ridge of your roof; as they age the metals emit natural inhibitors when it rains.
How do I determine if my roof is leaking?
If you’ve got water stains on your walls or ceiling, the smell of mold in your attic, or you can visibly see mold somewhere, you’ve got a leaky roof. If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to summon a professional roofer to inspect for leaks and necessary repairs.
Will clogged gutters harm my roof?
Yes, gutters that are clogged and not draining properly can allow water to pool up on your roof, leading to water damage and leaks! Clogged gutters also put extra weight on your roof and may cause it to sag over time. If you want gutters that work, you are going to want to clean your gutters.