Roofing

Roofing Archives for the Interstate Roofing blog, we serve the Portland & Vancouver areas. We do residential, commercial, new and repair: call 503 684-5611

Five Questions to Ask Portland Roofing Contractors Before Choosing a Company

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As a homeowner, it’s inevitable that at some point you’ll need to get in touch with Portland roofing contractors to determine who should fix or maybe even replace your roof. It’s also in our nature to not have a company front of mind when your roof starts to leak seemingly out of nowhere. But, even in a roofing emergency, it’s important to question at least a handful of local companies to determine who you should hire.

While it can be stressful to find a last minute roofer, if you ask the right questions, you will certainly find a company who is qualified to handle the task at hand.

To get you started, here are five questions you should ask Portland roofing contractors before making a final hiring decision:

Do you offer a warranty on the work performed and the roofing materials?

Most professional roofers will provide some version of a warranty, but it’s important to get the details of your coverage beforehand. For example, while one roofer may provide a workmanship warranty, this company may not be able to offer a manufacturer’s warranty.

At Interstate Roofing, we work closely with the top manufacturers in the industry and can provide product warranties on behalf of each. We also provide various workmanship warranties that include tear-off costs and flashing replacements.

While you hope to never have to use a warranty, if you select a company that does not offer at least the industry standard, then you are putting yourself at risk for shelling out large sums of money just a few short years after investing in your roof replacement.

Also, make sure to get the warranty in writing before committing to a company. That way you can closely compare the offerings and have proof of purchase if something does go awry.

Can I see pictures of work that you’ve completed that is similar to my project?

If you call a random Portland roofing contractor and hire the first person you speak with it’s 50-50 whether the work will be to your liking. For this reason, it’s important to know if the company you’re interested in has completed roofing projects similar to the one you’re requesting.

If your house has gables or a steep pitch, will your contractor know how to properly and safely navigate that type of roofline? Or, maybe you are looking for Portland roofing contractors who are experts in flat, commercial roofs. Either way, ask to see proof of past work.

While this may sound like you can’t trust the person you’re speaking with when he or she says the company has ample experience, you still must ask. In fact, contractors expect these types of questions and will not mind one bit. And, if someone does seem perturbed by your queries, then it’s not the company for you.

Are your past customers happy with your work? Can you direct me to reviews?

If you are calling Portland roofing contractors to perform work on your roof, you’re going to want to hire someone who other people would also recommend. Great resources beyond a company’s website where you can read reviews include Facebook, Google, Yelp, Angie’s List, and more, and that’s likely where a company will direct you, but it’s still important to ask.

Again, it may seem strange to ask, but great companies are proud to boast about their rave reviews and the excellent work they’ve completed. They want to show off their latest projects and share how they surpassed customers’ expectations both in workmanship and professionalism.

This question allows the company representative to share the many reasons why you should select that company over another and may even be the tipping point on whether it’s the one you ultimately choose.

Do you offer roof maintenance services?

While this may seem strange to be among our top five questions as you’re focused on the immediate problem at hand and not whether or not you want a roof cleaning each year, it is definitely an important one to ask.

It may feel trivial at this moment, but long term you will want to select Portland roofing contractors who you can contact any time something comes up, not just once every ten to twenty years when you need a roof replacement.

You can easily find a one and done company, but if you want to ensure you’re placing a quality product on your home with a top-notch local company, then you’ll want to know they’re going to be around to call when something comes up.

How do you maintain a safe working environment?

Again, this may not seem relevant, but it speaks volumes about a company culture. You don’t just want to hire a company that throws people up on roofs with abandon and considers their employees as replaceable. You want a company that puts the safety and health of their employees among their top priorities.

Working on a roof is inherently dangerous, so you’ll learn a lot when you ask this question. At Interstate Roofing, we’ll tell you we provide:

  • Thorough safety orientation training for all new employees.
  • Pre-job safety plans on all projects
  • Frequent on-site safety inspections
  • Formal accident investigations
  • Certified CPR and First Aid training
  • Generous safety incentives
  • And more

At Interstate Roofing, we value our employees—some of whom have been with us since our founding in 1988—so we put in place high standards to ensure each individual stays and remains safe on each project site.

This list of five questions is by no means comprehensive. Other questions you should certainly ask include pricing, company history, environmental considerations, proper insurance and licensing, and any specifics related to your project at hand.

All top Portland roofing contractors who take pride in their work and their company will be glad to address these and any other questions you have so that you—the consumer—can make an informed decision.

At Interstate Roofing, we looking forward to working with you and can’t want to answer the many questions you might have for us. Reach out today!

5 Reasons Composition Shingles Are Your Top Roofing Option

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When it comes to choosing a roof for your home, it can be easy for you to get confused or feel overwhelmed about which type to pick. You’ll want to choose a roofing option that is the best fit for the structure and that also offers plenty of benefits.

One notable option is composition shingles. These are a type of shingles that have a fiberglass reinforcing mat at the center, which is then coated with mineral fillers, as well as with asphalt. This asphalt coating is what makes the shingles waterproof. The top surface of the shingle is then embedded with a layer of ceramic granules.

So, you may be wondering, what is it about these particular shingles that sets them apart from the rest? Composition shingles are one of the most popular options in modern roofing. In fact, they make up about 85% of home roofing systems. And, when you look at what kind of benefits they provide, you’ll understand why that is.

1. First of all, composition shingles are a very affordable option.

The low upfront cost of these shingles is a major reason why they have become so popular. The cost per square foot is lower than other roofing options, and the framework to hold these shingles is also typically less expensive. This means that you can get high quality and aesthetically pleasing shingles that will not cost you a fortune. Because composition shingles are also typically quite easy to replace, this will further help by cut costs if repairs are ever required.

2. The fact that these shingles are relatively easy to install, repair, and replace is another great benefit.

Contractors have found that it takes less time to install and replace composition shingles than it does for some other roofing options. Once installed, if you lose a shingle, they are easy to repair on a one-on-one basis. Overall, they are also relatively low maintenance.

Since composition shingles are so popular, they are also more readily available. Some less popular roofing options aren’t available in every area, meaning you would have to search to find them or to find a contractor. Fortunately, nearly every roofing contractor will know how to install and repair composition shingles.

3. Composition shingles are also highly durable.

These shingles are known for having a longer lifespan than some other types, often lasting for several decades.

When you choose composition shingles, you can have peace of mind knowing you can count on them for years to come. And over the years, composition shingles will also be able to flex and adapt to a roof’s movements due to expansion and contraction.

The durability of these shingles also means they are great protection against the elements and do not allow for moisture buildup. This is especially great in the Pacific Northwest region, where roofs can take quite a beating from harsh UV rays, lots of rainy days, high winds, and hail.

Composition shingles are also highly flame resistant, which can protect your home from fire damage. These shingles can also help to prevent mold, algae, or fungus from growing.

4. Composition shingles can also be a very eco-friendly choice.

These days, contractors understand that more and more people are looking to do whatever they can to live in an environmentally conscious way. And the materials used to build a home are a major factor in this intention.

When you decide to go with Interstate Roofing for your contractor needs, you’ll find that we offer sustainable roof shingles. This includes shingles that are Energy Star rated. Interstate Roofing is a GAF Certified Green Roofing Contractor and offers many green roofing and home improvement products. Aside from sustainable roof shingles, additional green products the company offers include skylights, solar tubes, and solar-powered vents.

Composition shingles are a greener choice because they help to shield your home from harmful UV rays, which can also decrease your energy costs. CertainTeed, one of the manufacturers Interstate Roofing works with, has sustainable roof shingles that reflect solar energy far better than traditional roofing shingles. The composition shingles themselves can also be recycled.

Interstate Roofing is very committed to going green beyond offering sustainable roof shingles. Unlike other contractors, Interstate Roofing employees will recycle the construction debris, so it doesn’t just end up in a landfill. You can find more information about this commitment to going green and the sustainable roof shingles here.

5. When you choose composition shingles, you get to pick from a variety of options.

A roof, of course, isn’t just for protection against weather and the elements. It is also a key component of a home’s overall aesthetic. Some roofing options only offer one kind of look. However, with composition shingles, you can choose from a wide range of different colors and styles to complement the architecture and landscape of the home as a whole.

Manufacturers are also offering roof shingles that come in “cool colors”, which help to make the roof shingles more sustainable. This is because the lighter colors will better reflect the sun’s rays.

Offering both composition shingles and single ply membranes, Interstate Roofing has been one of the largest roofing contractors in the Pacific Northwest region for over two decades now.

No longer do homeowners just throw up any old roof onto their homes. You are selective and particular, as you should be. You want a product that is durable, long-lasting, green, and looks good, too. At Interstate Roofing, we will help you determine the best composition shingle for your home and you’ll be delighted with the results for years to come.

The Best Portland Roofing Contractors Will Recommend Roof Maintenance to Ensure its Longevity

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A home should be your shelter from the storm, both literally and figuratively. Your roof is one of your best line of defenses, so it’s important to maintain it properly. Roof repairs can be costly and a major inconvenience. That’s why the best Portland roofing contractors will recommend roof maintenance on a regular basis.

Interstate Roofing has three decades of experience in the roofing industry. Not only do we provide quality roof installations, we also help our clients maintain them so that they’re long-lasting and durable over time. We’ll show you some important ways you can care for your roof to ensure that it holds up well, saving you the expense of costly repairs.

The first thing to remember is to be proactive.

At Interstate Roofing, we help our clients do that by offering maintenance agreements. Not only do our maintenance agreements include regular inspections, they also come with the added benefit of priority service. After all, it’s best to avoid waiting until you have a leaky rook to call for help. By that time, your home could be severely damaged and require extensive repair. Instead, make regular service appointments with a trusted Portland roofing contractor who will help you identify the potential for damage and address it before it becomes a major issue.

What should these appointments include and how often should they be performed?

If possible, you should have a quality roofing professional perform roof maintenance twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. There are also some occasions throughout the year when you’ll want to schedule additional appointments, as needed. For example, it’s best to have your roof inspected following a major storm event, such as an earthquake or hailstorm. If any issues are detected, you’ll want to take care of them immediately to prevent further damage from arising.

During your preventative maintenance appointment, you’ll want to have your roof professionally cleaned.

Our roof cleaning services include removing any debris or build-up that may have formed on your roof, including algae, moss, mold, and mildew. Not only will this keep your roof looking good, it will also ensure that it stays well maintained. Allowing debris to accumulate can reduce your roof’s lifespan. Therefore, it’s important to have your Portland roofing contractor thoroughly wash your roof in accordance with industry standards.

In addition to cleaning your roof, your roofing contractor should also perform a thorough inspection.

This includes checking the roof surface for any damage or signs of weathering. Your inspector should also check the roof for any cracks, tears, or scratches in the surface.

Additionally, loose, damaged, or missing panels or shingles should be identified and replaced immediately. If you’ve had any prior roof repairs, those should be inspected as well to confirm they were performed correctly and that the issue has been adequately addressed. It’s a good idea to have a list of these ready for your roofing contractor, particularly if another company performed the repairs previously.

It’s also important that you perform a self-inspection of your roof to identify any potential issues or damage in-between visits.

Early detection of problem areas can help you avoid a huge expense later on, and while a professional contractor should perform regular inspections of your roof, there are still things you should be on the lookout for yourself.

For instance, inspect your roof for any signs of mold, moss, algae, or any other growth that may need to be removed. If you have a metal roof, examine it for rust or any other visible signs of wear and tear. Also, look for any loose or missing shingles, as well as any cracked mortar or caulking in the joint and chimney areas.

A common issue with roofs is the potential for leaks, so you should also be on the lookout for signs indicating leakage is present. This may include dark spots on the ceiling, or the presence of mold and dampness in the attic. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to contact your Portland roofing contractor immediately. Simple maintenance to address the issue can quickly remedy the problem and save you from a costly future repair.

While professional and self-inspections of your roof should be performed in the spring and fall, there are also certain maintenance tasks to be performed during the summer and winter as well. For instance, the weight of heavy snow accumulation poses a serious threat to the stability of your roof. By simply removing the snow from your roof with a snow rake, which can be purchased at most home improvement stores, you could be saving your roof from the threat of collapse.

Likewise, it’s important during the warmer months that you promptly remove any debris that has collected on your roof. The presence of sticks and leaves can cause unwanted growth, like algae, to form over time. Trimming back any branches that hang over your roof will help prevent the accumulation of sticks, leaves, and other debris. Be particularly mindful of this after heavy winds, storms, and other extreme weather conditions.

This may seem like a lot of work and we understand you lead a busy life. Scheduling roof maintenance may not always be at the forefront of your mind. That’s why our maintenance agreements will do most of the work for you. We’ll let you know when it’s time for us to come out to inspect your roof.

Having professional inspections conducted on a regular basis will help mitigate your risk for major repairs, as well as extend your roof’s lifespan. So contact your preferred Portland roofing contractor to schedule biannual maintenance appointments. After all, we don’t want this worry to be hanging over your head. Instead, the only thing that should be hanging over your head is a solid roof.

Three Big Mistakes People Make When Buying a New Roof

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Buying a new roof is a major investment. Find out what you can do to avoid making pricey mistakes along the way.

Between choosing the right materials, finding reliable contractors and keeping your budget in check, buying a new roof is a big deal. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to miss a few things. While many can be fixed along the way, some seemingly small oversights can turn into enormous problems, putting the brakes on your roofing project and blowing your end budget out of the water.

You might think that buying quality materials is the single most significant thing in ensuring that your new roof replacement goes smoothly, but a solid installation is just as – if not more – important. In fact, some of the worst roofing disasters, like leaks, abnormally high energy costs and roof collapse, happen because of bad contractors or missed checks. Making sure you don’t make the three common mistakes below can help you avoid the same fate.

1. Underestimating the Importance of Thoroughly Screening Contractors

You probably already know that you should be hiring a professional company with up-to-date licensing, but that’s not the only requirement for protecting yourself against fraud or sub-par work. To dig a little deeper, ask potential contractors for references from previous clients, get a feel for their experience level and talk contract terms. Getting a second bid on a project can also be extremely helpful, even if it is higher than the original, you at least have an idea of the market. –

2. Skipping the Inspection

You can get a price quote over the phone, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be accurate. Without a full inspection of your home, contractors can only give you a general idea of how much you can expect to spend based on the size of your roof and attic, the kind of features you want to install and the materials you want to use. If you’re on a tight budget, scheduling an at-home consultation is the best way to avoid unexpected expenses down the road.

3. Assuming Your Contractor Has Good Insurance

Because so much can go wrong during a roofing project, from moisture damage to personal injuries, hiring a company with a stellar insurance plan can make all the difference in case of a serious emergency. Unfortunately, not all roofing contractors invest in high-level coverage. For example, roofing insurance is typically more expensive and extensive than general policies that cover roofing under an umbrella of other services.

Are you in the market for a new roof in Portland? Contact us at Interstate Roofing to learn how we can help you get the job done right.

Elements of Green Roofing

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Creating an environmentally friendly roof for your home

Green roofing can take many forms. Some homes and businesses take the term literally and use roof space to grow plants. If you can’t manage the time and maintenance involved in that particular brand of “green,” try one of these simpler choices to make the roof of your Portland home more sustainable.

Recycled Materials

Building construction, demolition and upgrades generate millions of tons of debris each year, and most of it winds up in landfills. Much of this material could be recovered and recycled, and more companies are lowering their ecological footprints by doing just that. Take the environmentally friendly route by investing in roofing materials that are both recycled and recyclable.

Green Production

Another thing to look at when upgrading your roof is the manufacturing practices of the company providing the roofing materials. It’s no good to opt for something that seems green only to discover that harmful chemicals were used, and resources were wasted during manufacturing. Doing some research beforehand to find companies that use the most responsible production methods can not only help the environment, but can send the right message to manufacturers. Additionally it is important to verify that there are no harmful compounds on the shingles you buy that may leach off in the rain or contaminate the environment around your home.

Energy Smart

Choose roof shingles in light colors to reflect the heat of the sun and keep your home cool during the hottest months of the year. Adding overhangs around the edge of the roof provides extra shade that further reduces heat gains. By choosing “cool” roofing materials, you cut down on the amount of time that you need to run a fan or the air conditioner to moderate the indoor temperature.

Solar Power

If your budget allows, consider adding solar panels to your green roof. This helps to offset energy use within your home, which in turn cuts down on the resources you consume every day. Rather than relying on the main grid for your power, you have your own renewable energy source right above your head. It is possible to install enough solar paneling to have self-sufficient energy production right in your own home!

Longevity

The longer your roof lasts, the less waste is generated from repairs and upgrades. Look for durable materials with extended warranties to find the best options for a roof that stands the test of time.

At Interstate Roofing, we’re committed to being as green as possible. Contact us to find out more about our environmentally friendly options including Energy Star rated shingles, solar tubes and solar powered vents. When we replace your roof with a sustainable one, we won’t just haul the old roof away. We’ll take the materials to a recycling center where they can be re-purposed and used again for other roofing jobs, a practice that helps to sustain the environment by cutting down on waste.

Why a Quality Roof is Worth Saving For

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Whether you’re dealing with a storm-related emergency or just your garden-variety wear and tear, roof damage is never good news. Unfortunately, it’s bound to happen to all homeowners at one point or another. After all, even perfectly maintained roofs ultimately have a limited lifespan.

In the long run, how you handle these repairs is what matters most. While you don’t want to blow your budget, sacrificing quality is a sure recipe for a financial disaster down the road. To understand how spending more money on roofing right now can help you save more later; let’s get back to basics: materials and labor.

Not All Roofing Materials Are Created Equal

Your roof works around the clock to protect your home from bad weather, wind, animals and other outdoor threats, so shouldn’t it be armed with the best materials around? Think of your roof as a seal between your attic and the outside world. Without a strong barrier, you can end up with ongoing problems that run the gamut from water damage to raccoon nests and roof rat infestations.

Water damage alone can wreak havoc on your bank account. Besides obvious issues, like stubborn water stains and warped wood, excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold. Over time, fixing water damage from recurring leaks can add up to a lot more money than you’d save by choosing a cheaper roofing material.

Professional Installation is Worth the Extra Investment

In roofing, installation carries much more weight than the materials used. Without expert oversight, even the best materials can fall seriously short on function and durability. What separates the top contractors from the rest? Experience, licensing and a proven track record of customer satisfaction are good starting points in narrowing your search down to a reliable company. Because all three take time and money to develop, rock-bottom pricing is usually a warning sign that you aren’t getting the standard of service you deserve.

Keep in mind that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get your roofing project done right from start to finish. The key to getting the best bang for your buck is to find the perfect middle ground between an affordable price tag and a fair quality. Instead of taking the cheapest bid, let your overall budget guide you to the best option available in your price range.

Are you looking for quality roof repair services in Portland? Contact Interstate Roofing directly to learn more about our trusted roofing team and get started with your free estimate.

Is There a Roof Disaster Lurking Under Your Shingles?

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Looking up for hidden trouble
When was the last time you were on the roof? The view of Mt. Hood might be better, but still: That expanse crowning your home needs regular inspection, so it deserves your attention at least twice a year. Before you climb the ladder, stand back and scan the roofline. Hidden trouble is easier to see when you know what to look for.

Is Your Flashing Flush?

Whether it’s metal, plastic, or rubber, flashing is your roof’s best friend because it deflects water from joints and seams. You can see it around vertical vents and chimneys where it protects structural framing. Flashing forms a water-proof barrier with its snug fit, but age and weather compromise its integrity. Because the material defends vulnerable areas of the roof, its failure can lead to serious structural damage. Even small flashing leaks allow moisture under surrounding shingles, which sets the stage for algae growth and wood rot.

Are the Shingles Out of Shape?

Missing shingles shout out loud that you’ve got trouble on the roof, but what do they communicate when they buckle and curl? This odd appearance is common on older roofs and indicates underlying moisture problems, but the shingles aren’t always to blame. A poorly ventilated attic forces damp air upward through the roof’s structure causing shingle material to buckle and curl. The uneven warping traps debris and rain water, and it sets up a natural breeding ground for mold and moss. When healthy shingles lose their shape, your roof loses its protection.

How Bad Is the Weather?

It’s tempting to blame Portland’s generous rainfall for our roof problems, but summer sunshine and winter cold take their toll too. The temperatures don’t have to sizzle for UV rays to dry and crack shingles. When melting snow runs off the roof, moisture collects around seams and joints, where it re-freezes and warps flashing. Once roofing materials are damaged, a strong gust of wind on a beautiful spring day can give sudden flight to shingles and flashing. It doesn’t take a Pacific storm to inflict weather damage on your roof.

Don’t wait until the kids’ soccer ball gets stuck behind the chimney to find out you have trouble on the roof. A visual checkup from the ground reveals a lot, but a professional roof inspection is the best way to make sure everything overhead stays in good shape. Just contact us at Interstate Roofing. We don’t retrieve cats or soccer balls, but we know how to take care of your roof.

The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Roofing

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As concern about climate change and environmental conservation grows, many building owners are choosing eco-friendly roofing to help the planet. A green roof is a roofing system that uses vegetation as a roof covering. Green roof systems can reduce the “heat-island” effect, improve air quality, neutralize acid rain, benefit biodiversity, create sound insulation, and conserve energy.

In addition to environmental benefits, eco-friendly roofing also offers important benefits to building owners. These green roofing benefits include an expanded roof life, reduced air conditioning costs, LEED credits, storm water management, and reduced heating costs.

More Green Roofing Benefits

Eco-friendly roofing improves air quality. Plants produce oxygen and reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the environment. In addition, green roofing can remove airborne particles, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds from the air and prevent these pollutants from entering the water system.

Green roofing benefits biodiversity. Research suggests that eco-friendly roofing can be designed to meet local biodiversity objectives. Portland, OR, residents who choose green roofing can have an important impact by providing an increased habitat for wildlife.

Green roof systems improve thermal performance. Green roofing benefits include increased roof insulation and improved thermal performance. Rooftop vegetation acts as an insulation barrier. Additionally, the plants reduce the amount of solar energy absorbed by the roof, leading to cooler temperatures below. As a result, building owners enjoy reduced air conditioning and heating costs.

Eco-friendly roofing benefits the community. Natural green space provides important benefits to people who live and work in cities. In many cities, preserving green space seems to be an endless challenge. Green roofing helps offset the problems associated with growth because green roofs provide accessible green space within a dense urban setting. Further, studies show that exposure to natural greenery provides an important benefit to humans. These benefits include physical benefits such as exposure to cleaner air and mental benefits such as a reduced stress level.

Green Roofing in Portland, OR

Luckily for us, Portland is one of the top cities to embrace the benefits of green building. A growing number of business owners are choosing eco-friendly roofs and rooftop gardens to reduce the negative impact to the environment.

If you’re ready to learn more about green roofing in our beautiful city, Interstate Roofing is here for you.

A Clean Roof Is a Happy Roof

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Why your roof will thank you for performing regular maintenance

Nobody is thrilled at the thought of hauling out the ladder to climb up and clean the roof. However, as much of a headache as this chore can be, you’ll have a much bigger headache later on if you neglect to do it. These are just five of the many benefits of regular roof cleaning.

Improves Home Appearance

The way your home looks on the outside gives an impression of how well you treat the rest of it. You don’t let dirt and debris build up inside your home, so why would you let it happen on the roof? Keeping the roof clean maintains an attractive outward appearance that shows you take pride in your home.

Banishes Bacteria

A type of algae known as cyanobacteria is often responsible for the black and green streaks you see developing on your roof over time. Other types of growth include lichen and fungus, all of which feed on roofing materials. Regular cleaning gets rid of existing colonies and prevents new invaders from settling in to eat your roof.

Increases Efficiency

Anything growing on your roof will darken the color of the material, causing it to absorb more light and making the inside of the house hotter. In some cases, temperatures may rise as much as 25 degrees. Instead of wasting money combatting the problem with air conditioning, get rid of the growth and debris and bring your energy bills back down to where they should be.

Keeps the Home Safe

Algae and fungal growth can spread from the surface of the roof to the roof deck, allowing moisture to get in and providing prime real estate for mold. Excess roof debris clogs gutters, causing overflow that may encourage mold growth in other areas. Mold can range from mildly allergenic to toxic, so keeping it from appearing should be a top priority.

Lengthens Roof Life

Allowing debris and growth to accumulate speeds the natural degradation of roof shingles. Since roof replacement is one of the most expensive home improvements you can undertake, it makes more sense to invest in a regular cleaning plan. Practicing preventative maintenance takes less time and money than a complete roof replacement and gives you peace of mind.

Professional roof maintenance and cleaning services offer these same benefits, and you don’t have to look far to find them. Interstate Roofing provides homes in the Portland, OR, area with reliable maintenance that preserves the longevity and integrity of roof materials. Give us a call today for a free estimate on roof services for your home and start treating your roof right.

Replacing a Roof in the Winter

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What to do when you need roof replacement during the year’s coldest months.

Roof repair in the winter is problematic in the winter, but it can be done. Though you might not see the kind of snow in Portland that other areas of the country get in the winter, there are still plenty of ways for your roof to wind up damaged. Minor problems may be able to wait until spring, but sometimes roof repair is suddenly and unavoidably necessary. If you find yourself in such a predicament, keep these tips in mind when deciding whether to undertake wintertime roof replacement.

Know Your Roof Material

Certain materials stand up to cold temperatures better than others. An asphalt roof can be installed during the winter without much risk of damage from the chill. If your roof isn’t currently made of asphalt or another sturdy material, consider upgrading to prevent future winter roofing problems.

Wait for the Right Weather

Roof replacement is possible in cold weather, but it can’t be too cold. Rain or snow also rules out roof work. Wet conditions make it hard for roofers to do their jobs and may result in an inferior roof. Frigid temperatures can create problems such as brittle underlayment and shingles, frozen adhesives, and an inability to properly seal the roof. Manufacturers of roofing products set temperature limits as guidelines, and your roofing company will be able to tell you whether current conditions meet the requirements.

Provide a “Bare Deck”

A wet or frozen roof is slippery and dangerous for anyone to work on. Therefore, the entire roof will need a thorough cleaning before any winter work can be done. It’s also necessary to have a clear space for installation to ensure proper adherence of materials and prevent problems with wet shingles.

Understand the Limitations

Roofing isn’t really a winter job, so if you don’t absolutely need a new roof right away, you might be better off waiting. Have a roofing company assess the damage to see if you can get by until spring with minor repairs. Repairs cost less than all-out replacement and don’t take nearly as long most of the time, so they can be done on days when the weather is agreeable. This bypasses potential problems such as brittle materials, uncooperative tools, and people not wanting to work out in the cold. Putting off roof replacement until the spring may also save you headaches in the long term since the final installation is likely to be more reliable.

If you find that your roof needs attention this winter, call Interstate Roofing. We’ll give you a free estimate and stick with you through every phase of roof replacement to ensure a job well done. Contact us for more information about our services or to request your free estimate today.