Many people overlook the dark stains on their roofs because they think it is just a cosmetic problem. In actuality, getting your roof cleaned regularly can reduce repair and maintenance costs that add up over time. Those unsightly stains are caused by algae, which can compromise the condition of your shingles and spike your energy bills. Learn more about how algae can affect your home and hire a roofing contractor in Portland that offers regular cleaning services.

Roofing Portland OR — Weather Encourages Roof Algae Growth

Portland’s rainy weather makes your roof a particularly desirable location for algae growth. Algae needs water and warmth to grow, two things your Portland roof can offer in excess. The shingles that are installed on most roofs easily absorb heat from the sun. When this heat interacts with the rain that falls on your roof, alga can take over quickly.

Roofing Portland OR — Regular Cleaning and Roof Repair Saves Shingles

As the algae grows, it takes root in shingles of your roof. If the problem is not addressed quickly, then you might need to hire a Portland roofing contractor to replace the shingles, an expense which can be avoided. Hiring a contractor for roof repair in Portland is often much more expensive than scheduling regular cleanings.

Algae Makes Your Portland OR Roof Much Hotter

As algae collects, it actually makes your roof hotter, which increases the chances that even more algae will grow. This happens because the dark color of the algae traps more heat than the grey, black and white shingles typically used for roofing on Portland homes. Lots of heat can shorten the life span of your shingles and roof, which will make repairs necessary to prevent further damage.

A an extremely hot roof can also raise the amount of energy you use in your Portland home. As the heat rises on your roof, so does the temperature in the interior of your home. This encourages your air conditioner to run more often.

Finding a Portland Roofing Contractor to Clean Your Roof

Having your roof cleaned regularly can lower the amount of money you spend in the long haul. However, be sure to shop around for an experienced contractor to handle your roofing needs in Portland OR. Get references and ask people in your community about their experiences with Portland roof repair and roof cleaning services. You will also want to get price quotes from several roofing contractors to find services with competitive rates.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect fit for your home or interested in a commercial roofing job in Portland OR, your contractor will go over your installation options. Below are descriptions of the most widely used materials in Portland roof repair and replacement. Learn about the benefits of each, along with weather wear issues to keep in mind before finalizing your decision on a roofing job.

Residential and Commercial Roofing in Portland — Metal

Once strictly used for commercial and agricultural roofing, many Portland homeowners are now choosing to install metal roofs atop their homes. Metal roofs are not only versatile, but also extremely durable. Your roofing contractor in Portland can highlight the benefits of metal roofs, such as versatility and durability. Metal roofs also require little maintenance and roof repair and are made up of non flammable material.

Roofing in Portland OR — Wood

Quality roofing in Portland OR can often be used to add some nice aesthetic touches to your home or commercial structure. In this regard, wood materials are a popular choice.

Your Portland roofing contractor can go over the two types: shingles and shakes. In general, wood shingles have a smooth finish, while shakes have a rough surface. Using wood materials for your home or commercial roofing job in Portland can create a natural look. However, considering the Portland climate, regular roof repair and maintenance is absolutely necessary.

Roofing in Portland OR — Slate

Slate roofing has been around for centuries and is a durable choice that can add distinct beauty to your home or commercial building. While an exquisite option for your OR home, your roofing contractor in Portland will alert you to the cost and complexity of this type of roof installation. In addition to the hefty price for the materials themselves, their weight requires additional support to reinforce the roofing structure.

Residential and Commercial Roofing in Portland — Asphalt

Asphalt is the most popular choice for new roof installation and roof repair in Portland. The lightweight material is also light on the pocketbook. This type of roofing for your Portland OR home or business is a sturdy option, able to withstand regional weather patterns.

Oregon Weather and Roofing Materials in Portland

OR roofs can go through a lot, given the varying weather patterns. Therefore, resilience should be a major concern for your residential or commercial roofing job in Portland.

During summer, the ultraviolet sunrays amplify wear and tear on your roof. Conversely, the freezing and melting of snow and ice can cause your roofing materials to deteriorate from frequent expansion and contraction.

Frequent moisture, whether through rainfall, dampness in the air or algae and moss, can also compromise your roof. Moisture can seep through the components of your roof, wearing down the structure and eventually leading to problems inside the building.

Regardless of the type of roofing materials you decide to go with, it’s crucial to follow the regular maintenance schedule assigned by your roofing contractor in Portland. In doing so, you can protect your home or commercial building by addressing repairs expeditiously, thereby avoiding additional costs.

While some roofing materials are more durable than others, no OR roof is spared from weather wear and tear. Choosing a qualified roofing contractor in Portland who can properly install your roof is the best defense. Proper installation or roof repair in Portland will help your get the most from the roofing materials you choose.

Roofing and roof repair in Portland has expanded beyond asphalt, clay tile and slate roofing. Homeowners now have a variety of alternatives for roofing in Portland OR, many of which enhance the beauty of the home and increase energy efficiency. Have a look at a few options your Portland roofing contractor can offer for your roof.

Alternative Roofing and Roof Repair Portland OR — Fiber Cement

Fiber cement is a mixture of wood fiber and cement. The tiles weigh much less than real cement or slate tiles and the wood fiber is often recycled. With Fiber Cement roofing materials, you can enhance the aesthetic quality of your home, reinforce the structure and appeal to the environment at the same time.

Alternative Roofing Portland OR — Living Roofs

A living roof, or green roof, is an eco-friendly structure in which the roof is covered in soil and vegetation. Living roof systems are an excellent choice for those who want to increase home insulation, help decrease the Urban Heat Island effect and add unique beauty to their homes.

Living roof systems can range from extensive to intensive. The former is the most basic type of living roof, while the latter allows homeowners to literally create a rooftop garden. Ask your roofing contractor in Portland which type of green roof system will work for your home.

Alternative Roofing and Roof Repair in Portland OR — Foam Roof

Another eco friendly alternative that also helps lower the Urban Heat Island effect is the foam roof. Foam roofs are waterproof and provide extraordinary insulation, which leads to better energy efficiency of the home. Foam roofs typically last over a decade, after which, you can have your Portland roofing contractor install another layer.

Alternative Roofing and Roof Repair in Portland OR — Imitation Slate

Imitation slate is an affordable alternative to real slate, which can cost several hundred dollars per square. Imitation slate also weighs less and is more versatile, suitable for various forms of roofing in Portland OR.

Alternative Roofing and Roof Repair in Portland OR — Flex Shake

Flex shake is a fairly new alternative roofing material, comprised of rubber shake made from recycled radial tires and steel belts. Flex shake roofing material is highly durable and provides solid protection against weather extremes in Portland.

The key with choosing the appropriate material for roofing in Portland OR is to highlight functionality. Contact a qualified roofing contractor in Oregon for a home inspection and expert advice on which type of roof will work best for your home.