Portland’s wet, windy weather can take a real toll on residential roofs. Heavy rains, hail, and strong gusts can cause damage that often goes unnoticed until leaks and costly repairs appear. Regular roof inspections—especially after major storms—are essential for protecting your home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely and effectively inspecting your roof in Portland’s unique climate.
Start with a Ground-Level Inspection
Before climbing a ladder, observe your roof from the ground. Look for obvious signs of storm damage such as missing shingles, lifted shingles, sagging sections, or debris buildup. Portland storms often blow twigs, branches, and leaves onto rooftops, which can clog gutters and trap moisture. Check your downspouts and gutters for granules—those tiny, sand-like particles from asphalt shingles. Excessive granules are a common indicator of hail or wind damage.
Check for Water Intrusion Inside the Home
Storm damage isn’t always visible from the outside. Head into your attic or crawl space and look for water stains, damp insulation, mold, or sunlight peeking through small holes. These signs often indicate roof penetration caused by wind or heavy rainfall. Portland’s long rainy seasons mean even small leaks can turn into serious moisture problems, so interior checks are just as important as exterior ones.
Inspect Shingles and Flashing Up Close
If it’s safe for you to do so, use a ladder to inspect the roof more closely. Portland roofs often suffer from wind-loosened shingles and flashing—thin metal pieces installed around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Look for:
- Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
- Exposed nail heads
- Torn or bent flashing
- Dents or pockmarks from hail
- Moss or algae growth is made worse by excess moisture.
If you’re not comfortable climbing a ladder or navigating a roof, hiring a professional inspector is always the safer option.
Look for Gutter and Drainage Damage
Proper drainage is especially critical in Portland’s rainy climate. Storms can cause gutters to detach or clog, leading to pooling water along the roofline. Check for sagging gutters, loose brackets, or blockages caused by storm debris. Poor Oregon drainage can accelerate roof deterioration and cause water to back up under your shingles.
Assess the Surrounding Property
Sometimes the best clues come from your yard. Look for fallen branches, scattered shingles, or damaged fencing—these signs often indicate the level of wind strength your home endured. If your neighbors experienced roof damage, there’s a good chance your property may have been affected too.
When to Call a Professional
While basic checks are helpful, a trained roofing professional can identify hidden damage that homeowners often miss. Professional inspections are especially important after:
- Severe windstorms
- Heavy hail
- Extended periods of heavy rain
- Fallen tree limbs
A timely inspection can save you thousands by preventing leaks and structural deterioration.
Contact Us
Don’t wait for leaks or expensive repairs to reveal storm damage. Protect your Portland home with a thorough, professional roof inspection today.
For an affordable property management quote, contact us today by calling (503) 646-9664 – Talk to a Live Person – Our office answers the phone 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday – or click here to connect with us online.
