Many of the roofing problems in the Pacific Northwest stem from the wet air and the frequent rain. In fact, in the Kitsap Peninsula, it rains approximately one-third of all the days in the year out of the year. Nearby Seattle is also the third cloudiest city in the United States.
All that moisture and cloud cover means that many roofs in the Kitsap Peninsula area are wet for much of the year. Moisture can lead to a variety of problems, including algae and rot. Here’s what you need to know about common roofing problems of the Pacific Northwest.
1. Algae
Algae is commonly found growing in moist, soggy areas and in places that do not get a lot of direct sunlight. The coastal air found in and around the Kitsap Peninsula is very conducive to the growth of algae, which can stain roof tiles. Algae growth is generally a cosmetic problem, but because it’s so obvious, the stains can negatively impact your home’s curb appeal.
You can prevent algae from growing on your home by cutting back the branches and allowing sunlight to shine on the roof as much as possible. Pruning back trees also increases air circulation around the home, which can further prevent algae from growing on the roof.
If you’re not able to prevent algae from growing on your roof, you may need to have your roof cleaned periodically. Clean your roof with a mixture of half water and half chlorine bleach. Use a pressure washer to clear off the algae and keep the roof clean. If you’re not comfortable using a pressure washer on your roof, or if you’re not able to safely access your roof, contact a roofing professional.
2. Moisture From Precipitation
Although the Kitsap Peninsula actually gets less rain than some other parts of the country (like the Eastern and Southern parts of the United States), it has more wet days than almost anywhere else. A roof that stays wet on a regular basis may be prone to rot and leaking. Fortunately, you can do many things to protect your roof from moisture:
- Inspect your attic on a regular basis, looking for signs of water damage.
- Walk around the outside of your home, and look for problems like sagging beams and missing or damaged shingles.
- Have your roof examined by a roofing professional on a regular basis.
- Get leaks repaired as soon as possible.
Have a professional roofing contractor examine your roof every few years, and make recommendations for repair as needed.
3. Salty Air
Salty air can damage a lot of home building materials, including some roofing materials. Installing a roof made of slate or clay is an excellent way to protect your roof from the sea air, as slate and clay are much less vulnerable to the effects of salt. If your home is not currently built to withstand the weight of a clay or slate roof, you may need to get your home retrofitted before installation.
A lightweight alternative is galvanized steel. The coating of zinc on the outside of the galvanized steel helps protect the roof from rusting. You’ll need to have a roofing contractor reapply the coating every two decades to ensure that the roof is protected. With proper maintenance, your galvanized steel roof can last 60 years or more.
Work With a Local Roofing Company
If you’re a homeowner in the Pacific Northwest, work with a local reputable roofing company to ensure that your roof is properly maintained. A good roofing company can help you take care of your roof in this challenging climate.
To learn more about maintaining a roof in the Kitsap Peninsula area, contact Cloise & Mike Construction, Inc. We’ll be happy to give you more information about how to protect your roof.