Portland Roofing Contractor
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FRequently Asked Questions

We know that roof issues can seem daunting which is why we wanted to answer some common questions we receive. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us online or call (503) 461-2665

  • General Roofing

    • When do I pay and receive my warranty?
      The office will send you an invoice in the mail after completion of each step of the process along with a copy of the warranty issued.
    • When will you be out to apply the treatment?
      Dry-low wind weather is a must before we apply the treatment to your roof. Because treatments are route and weather dependent, we will always call you a day ahead.
    • When will you be out to do repairs?
      As repairs are needed and approved, we will be out within a couple weeks. Remember we work in routes by area and neighborhoods.
    • What is in your treatment that makes it work?
      Our products are a sodium silicate base with a cleanser and conditioner added. Because moss likes an acidic environment our products keep the P.H. of the roof at a neutral slightly alkaline balance preventing moss and fungal re-growth.
    • Is the treatment toxic?
      Absolutely NOT! All of our treatments are environmentally friendly. It will not harm you, your animals, or your plants.
    • What kind of roofing material do you use when repairing my roof: good, better or best?

      We only use premium grade 100% vertical grain shakes. Composition and Tile are selected to match your existing roofing material.

    • How long until the WPC-R5 or RBC treatment starts to work?
      Our product is activated by the rain. As it rains you will notice dark water flowing into your gutters. This cleansing process is time released and takes 4-6 months.
  • Chimneys

    • What are common signs that your chimney is in need of repair?
      Cracks, breakage, or loose masonry are all obvious outward signs that your chimney is in need of repairs. Look for wear in the mortar and damage to the interior walls of the chimney and your fireplace. You may also notice rust and brickwork that crumbles easily at the touch. If it’s been a long time since your last repair or maintenance check, or if you notice an excessively smokey smell when you use your fireplace, call Roof Life of Oregon right away.
    • What issues can shorten the life of your chimney?
      The two biggest detriments to the lifespan of your chimney are age and weather. In the Portland area, the later is especially problematic because we often see heavy rainfall, wind, and ice that can breakdown brickwork and mortar joints over time. As your chimney ages, this can lead to cracks, leaning, and even the potential collapse of the chimney if issues are not properly addressed or your chimney is not well maintained.
    • How often does your chimney need to be repaired?
      You should schedule an annual chimney inspection for your peace of mind. If you use your fireplace frequently, you may want to have your chimney looked at more often. Regular repairs can not only expand the lifespan of your chimney, it will also increase your home’s property value and prevent potentially catastrophic chimney fires.
  • Certifications

    • How long is a certification good for?
      A roof certification from Roof Life of Oregon is good for 5 years, meaning you can trust that your roof will hold up for at least that period of time.
    • Why should you get your roof certified?
      Homeowners and potential buyers use certification to negotiate the price of a potential sale. For homeowners, it can prove that your roof will stand up to the test of time or that work was recently put into your roof to update its condition, which means the buyer will have one less expense to worry about. For buyers, a certification represents peace of mind
    • What is a roof certification?
      A roof certification begins with a thorough inspection of your roof, and, if necessary, your attic. We look for weak spots, moss and algae intrusion, leaks, missing shingles, and other potential issues that can decrease the value of your property. This thorough inspection is videotaped and our team can also make any necessary roof repairs, on your approval. This documented inspection is the foundation of your certification.
  • Moss Removal

    • How long does moss removal treatment last?
      The answer to this question depends on what your roof is made of. More absorbent materials, like cedar shake, will hold onto the treatment longer, and your roof will be moss free for five years. Treated less porous asphalt shingles and tiles will remain moss free for three years.
    • How long does moss removal take?
      The actual process by our team is relatively quick, and treatment can be completed in one service appointment, in less than a few hours, depending on the condition of your roof. After treatment, the moss growth will die off in about a week.
    • What are the dangers of DIY moss removal?
      “Over the counter” or DIY moss removal problems present dangers to both you and your roof. These chemicals are often caustic, corrosive, and bad for your health if not applied with the proper safety measures in place. The chemicals can also degrade your roof materials, leading to the need for premature repairs and replacements. A mossy roof can also be a very slippery surface, which presents a potential slip and fall danger. Our team puts safety at the forefront of everything we do. We know not only how to protect your roof, but keep our team safe while doing so.
  • Inspections

    • How long does a roof inspection take?

      The length of your inspection generally depends on the condition of your roof. If you have maintained a regular inspection or maintenance schedule, or if your roof is relatively new and in good condition, we can finish your inspection in less than a few hours. Older roofs and those that have more damage will require a bit longer to get to the bottom of any issues.

      Once our inspection is complete, we will let you know about your options to repair any damage, or, if necessary, recommend a replacement. You can trust that we will never sell you something you don’t need and our honest inspections include time to answer all of your questions and concerns and find a solution that works for your budget.

    • What kind of issues will inspectors look for?
      We perform a thorough evaluation that looks for signs of damage and deterioration. Our team will check for missing shingles, shakes, or tiles. We’ll look for soft spots, holes, and leaks. We’ll check between your roofing material for algae or moss growth, while looking at the condition of the tar or roof cement. We will also check your gutters, chimney, vents, and skylights to ensure there is no water intrusion. Finally, our team will inspect your decking for any signs of weakness or deterioration.
    • How often should you have your roof inspected?
      To prolong the life of your roof and ensure it is doing its job in keeping your home well protected, our professionals recommend regular annual inspections in the milder months of spring or autumn. This way you can rest easier knowing your roof is ready for the harsher weather that comes in the hottest and coldest months of the year.
  • Roof Repair

    • What happens if I have an emergency situation?
      When your roof has sprung a leak, it’s important to get repair help sooner rather than later. Waiting to fix a leak can not only cause more damage to your roof, but it can also damage your personal belongings, floor, ceiling, and walls, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs. Roof Life of Oregon offers emergency services and can arrive quickly to take care of your emergency situation. Whether you are facing storm damage or a problem has been developing for years, we are ready to take care of your property.
    • What repairs are commonly needed?
      While there are a host of issues that can occur due to a storm, age, or lack of maintenance, we most commonly repair leaks; reinstall missing shingles, shakes, and tiles; repair spots or whole roofs that have been affected by moss growth; repair decking and other structural elements; fix seals around skylights and vents; and more. When these repairs become more frequent, we may recommend a roof replacement, depending on the age and condition of your roof.
    • What are common signs that my roof may need to be repaired?

      Leaks, missing shingles, moss growth, or visible damage to your gutters, chimney, or any of your roof’s support structures all require professional attention. Whether water is dripping into your home or you’ve noticed dark spots on your ceiling or walls, repairing leaks quickly can help ensure they don’t grow into a bigger issue. It’s also important to address the issues that can cause leaks, such as when you notice missing shingles or if the adhesive used to keep your materials is crumbling.

      The age of your roof and how well it has been maintained is also a good indication that you may need repairs. Because your roof is subject to the elements, it can take a beating, especially in Portland, where sun, rain, and ice can cause damage to your roofing materials. When you schedule a roof inspection with Roof Life of Oregon, our team can thoroughly inspect the condition of your roof and looks for any of the signs that you may need repairs. We can also recommend a maintenance schedule to ensure your roof is always in good condition.

  • Roof Replacement

    • What if I’m unsure about the condition of my roof?
      Roof Life of Oregon would be happy to come to your home and perform a free maintenance inspection to let you know exactly how much life is left in your roof.
    • What if I can't afford to replace my roof?
      Our team offers financing options to help you afford your new roof replacement with convenient monthly payments that fit your budget.
    • How long does it take to replace a roof?

      Generally, our experts can replace a roof on an average Portland home, which is typically 3,000 square feet or less, in about a day. Larger homes can take longer, averaging three to five days. Weather conditions, more complex work involving steeper slopes or architectural elements, and less accessible roofs, can add additional time, depending on the unique circumstances of your property.

      To get a precise quote, call us at (503) 461-2665">(503) 461-2665 and schedule your roof inspection.

Your Roof is Our Roof

If you’re looking for a team that is as knowledgeable as they are kind and proactive, Roof Life of Oregon is the choice for you. Contact us today to experience the difference for yourself.

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