Roofing Systems Shingles

  • Free Roofing Certification Inspections
  • Pay at the end of Escrow for roofs under contract.
  • Architectural Composite Shingles
  • Metal Roofing
  • Concrete Tiles
  • Membrane Flat Roofing
  • Structural Repairs
    • Fascia Board Repair and Installation
    • Soffit Repair and Installation
    • Attic Repairs
    • Roof Rafters and Roof Deck Repairs
  • Roof Maintenance Moss Clean Up
  • Chimney Repairs
    • Counter Flashing Repair
  • Skylight Installation
  • Sun Tunnel Installation
  • Roof Replacements: A new roof is a crucial investment in your property. Therefore, choosing a certified roofing contractor is paramount in the final outcome of your roof.

Do I need to remove all the shingles or can I just put a new layer over the old shingles?

Do old shingles need to be removed?

For any new re roof the best approach is to completely remove the old roof system. This includes all the old shingles, all underlayment, all staples and/or nails. The surface must be completely free of any metals and any debris. Sometimes it is necessary to do repairs if any dry rot is found. At the same time, you must remove all flashings. This includes pipe jack flashings, old vents, old skylights, and skylight trim kits if any. If dry rot is found, in large areas of the roof, replacing the damaged plywood must be necessary.

Do I need to apply for a city permit if I replace the plywood on my roof?

Yes, in most cases, you would need to obtain a city permit if you are replacing the plywood on your roof. If the plywood to be replaced is more than 30 percent of the actual roof size. This is considered a structural change and requires approval to ensure the work meets building codes. Always check with your local building department to confirm the specific requirements in your area.

Do I need a permit to replace my roof myself in Oregon?

Permits are required for all new construction. They are also needed for specific alterations to existing homes, which include structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical changes. The person performing the work, whether it is a homeowner or contractor, is responsible for obtaining all necessary permits.

Oregon Residential Specialty Code
Significant changes summary
April 2021.

Work exempt from permit.
R105.2 Work exempt from permit.

15.Re-roofing, where replacement or repair of roofing and sheathing does not exceed 30 percent of the required live load design capacity. Exceptions: Permits for re-roofing are required for the following: 1. Structures in wildfire hazard zones as provided in Section R327. 2. Townhouses. 3. Installation of building-integrated photovoltaic roof panels or other photovoltaic roof coverings.

When to draw a permit.


If the new roof repair affects more than 30 percent of the plywood of the actual roof area, a city permit is needed.

Can I install a new layer of shingles over my existing roof?

Installing new shingles over the old roof is called a lay-over or recover. Some jurisdictions allow up to two layers on top of a roof. You must consult with the local building code.

Why is not convenient to add a new layer on top of old shingles?

While technically possible in certain situations, most shingle manufacturers do not actively encourage or fully endorse a roof overlay as it can impact the warranty and is only considered viable if the existing roof is in excellent condition with no major issues, and if local building codes allow for a second layer of shingles; always consult the manufacturer’s specific guidelines before deciding on an overlay

Free Roofing Certification Inspections


What is a Roof Certification?

A roof certification is typically required by mortgage lenders, insurance companies, and potential home buyers when a house is being sold, as they want to ensure the roof is in good condition before approving a loan or providing insurance coverage, especially if the roof is older or in a high-weather risk area

Key points about roof certification:

  • Real estate transactions: A roof certification is often requested when selling a house. This provides buyers with information about the roof’s condition. It also informs them about the roof’s remaining lifespan. 
  • A certification on a roof’s property is typically needed. It must be (3 to 5 years) to be accepted as viable collateral for the requesting lender. FHA, USDA, VA or Conventional Loan.
  • Insurance purposes: Insurance companies may ask for a roof certification. They use it to assess the risk associated with a property. This is particularly important in areas with severe weather.
  • Lender requirements:Mortgage lenders often require a roof certification to ensure the property’s value as collateral.

SAMPLE OF A ROOF CERTIFICATION INSPECTION

Why do I need a certified roofing company to look at my roof?

A roof inspection is a detailed assessment to determine the integrity of the entire roofing system and supporting structure.

The roofing inspector looks for the following:

Workmanship of installation

The inspector will look for problems in workmanship. The roof system must be installed according to manufacturer’s guidelines. The inspector must identify prior contractor errors. These errors may lead to leaks or roof damage for the remaining lifespan of the roof. The inspector must also inspect all the metals. They should check for problems with the chimney counter flashings, step flashings and masonry.

Skylights flashings and seals, vent pipes and any weather head pipes if any. They must also look for dry rot on siding that is connected to a gutter, on fascia boards and soffits.

Missing Kick Out Flashings

The correct way to divert water away from the  wall.

This type of wall to roof transition requires to have a kick out metal flashing.

Inspection of Soffits

SOFFIT

Any issues found with the workmanship of the roof, the roofing inspector shall issue a roof certification document. See the aforementioned certification sample pictures.

Attic inspection

An attic inspection might be considered if any leaks have occurred or are actively happening. The inspector look for cracks, water spots, or mold. There may be signs of water intrusion in the house that might not be visible at all.

Structural Integrity of the Roof

One of the most important issues to tackle is the overall structural stability of the roof. The inspector checks for uneven decking, signs of sagging or the soffit, fascia, and gutters condition. The venting will also be critically assessed. The assessment will decide whether improper venting has led to any heat or moisture buildup.

How Often Should You Get Your Roof Inspected?

It is a good idea to schedule a professional certified roof inspection once every two years at least in moderate climates. Nevertheless, the North West climate includes elements that are harsh on residential and commercial roofs. Roofing systems must hold up well under constant rain and constant temperature changes.

For this reasons roofing inspections are recommended. Doing so, can ensure that your roof is structurally sound and provides adequate protection.

Roof Inspections Help Sell Homes

If you live in an older home and decide to sell, you will quickly discover that you are competing with thousands of newer homes on the market across the valley. This makes it more difficult to sell your property at the price you want. If any structural issues in the roofing system are found, this delays any potential immediate buyers.

A roof certification tells buyers that although your home is older, it is still in excellent shape. Certification shows you have taken care of the house through the years. It assures buyers that they will enjoy the home for many years to come. An inspection also shows you have nothing to hide. It ensures the buyer will not experience any surprises after both parties close escrow.

Schedule a Free Roof Inspection

Swedenborg&Finch Corp Roofing Systems offers professional roofing services for homeowners in the state of Oregon. To schedule a free roof inspection: 

Call our office (503) 853-1396