The Best Roof Types for the Pacific Northwest

Here in the Pacific Northwest we get quite a bit of rain and wind, so it’s important to know the best roof types that drain well and can handle the excessive moisture.

While the style of your roof (gable or hipped) also plays a part in how it will stand up to the Portland climate, the material you choose to build your roof with is the biggest factor.

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When it comes to roofs, your experience with maintenance and repairs will depend on what type of roofing material you have. Some roofing materials require very little maintenance, while others require a lot and are more vulnerable to damage.

Tile, Cedar, and composition are three popular roofing options, each with unique qualities. Whether you’re choosing a material for your new roof or learning more about maintaining the roof you have, it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of these common roofing materials.

Tile Roofs

Tile roofs are a classic, distinctive style of roofing popular in the South and Southwest. No wonder! Tile roofs resist damage from scorching heat and sunlight, making them a great choice for these areas. Roofing tiles can be made of clay, concrete, or a sand-cast material, but they all function in the same way.

Cedar Roofs

Cedar roofs are simply gorgeous. Cedar is a renewable resource that is locally sourced in the Pacific Northwest. Many homeowners are drawn to cedar roofing for its aesthetic appeal, but unfortunately, it can fall into disrepair without the proper maintenance.

Composition Roofs

We see a lot of composition roofs in the Vancouver, Washington area. In fact, they are found on more than 75 percent of homes!

Composition roofs are built with shingles made from composite materials like asphalt. There are three main types of composite shingles:

• 3-Tab – The most basic, inexpensive, and least durable option. They get their name from the shingle having three tabs. Basically, 3-tab shingles are a low-cost alternative to more decorative and traditional materials.
• Presidential – A more luxurious type of shingle with the look of cedar but the performance of composition roofing. Many homeowners enjoy the look of a hand-split wood shake roof without sacrificing durability.
• Architectural – Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, architectural shingles are high-quality, durable, and stylish. Made from a heavy fiberglass mat base and ceramic-coated mineral granules, they give the roof dimension and protection.

Common Roofing Problems in the Pacific Northwest

A poorly installed roof

No matter how good the roofing materials are, if they aren’t installed using proven and cutting edge techniques, the roof will cause you issues. In fact, there is no single cause of roofing issues in Oregon and Washington more common than faulty installation.

A properly installed roof that can hold up to the demanding weather of the Pacific Northwest begins and ends with finding a roofing contractor you can trust.

Roof leaks and their causes

When leaks allow water to enter your house, serious damage can be inflicted, including:

• Moisture and mold in your living space, walls, and attic
• Flooring and other materials becoming rotted and destroyed
• Furniture and electronics destroyed
• Inability to keep a warm temperature in your home

Pests and insects

When animals, insects, and pests make their way onto your roof, holes are inevitable. Drawn by debris like fallen leaves, tree branches, and moss, insects and other small animals will make themselves at home on your roof. Once they’re there, they will attempt to get into your home for the shelter and warmth it provides.

Make sure to clean off your roof regularly and ensure debris is not left to make an appealing home and resting place for critters!

Call a professional roofing contractor

At Heritage Custom Homes & Remodeling Contractors of Portland and Vancouver, we know your time is busy. That’s why we introduced texting the House emoji to (360) 564-8520. Start the conversation on your schedule. Of course, call us as well for a free no obligation consultation at (360) 564-8520