At Valley Roofing, we’ve been working on roofs across the Willamette Valley since 2012, and we’ve seen just about everything the weather can throw at a structure. Whether you own a home in Salem or manage a commercial property, these are five common roofing problems you’re likely to encounter in our neck of the woods—and what you can do about them.

1. Moss Growth & Algae Stains

It’s no surprise this is at the top of the list. Our region’s cool, damp climate and shady tree cover make it the perfect breeding ground for moss and algae. You’re not alone if you’ve ever looked up at your roof and seen green fuzz creeping across the shingles.

Why it’s a problem:

Moss might look charming on a stone cottage in the forest but on your roof? Not so much.

Here’s why:

• It holds moisture against your shingles, which can lead to rot and decay
• It can lift or crack shingles, exposing the underlayment to water intrusion
• It spreads quickly—especially in shady or north-facing areas

What you can do:

While Valley Roofing doesn’t perform moss treatments, we strongly recommend keeping moss in check with safe, preventive practices like:

• Installing zinc or copper strips (They help by releasing minerals that inhibit moss growth)
• Trimming overhanging branches to allow sunlight in
• Gently clearing debris off your roof
• Avoiding pressure washing, which can damage shingles

Need seasonal upkeep tips? We’ve got you covered:

👉 Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist
👉 Roof Maintenance Tips for Every Season

2. Clogged Gutters & Poor Drainage

We know that cleaning gutters isn’t anyone’s favorite weekend activity. But it’s one of the most essential parts of roof maintenance, especially here in the Pacific Northwest.

Why it’s a problem:

Water has nowhere to go when leaves, moss, and debris pile up in your gutters and downspouts. It backs up and spills over, which can cause:

• Roof leaks
• Fascia and soffit rot
• Foundation damage from pooling water
• Interior water staining

Commercial properties with flat or low-slope roofs are particularly vulnerable. Poor drainage can lead to ponding water, membrane degradation, and eventual structural damage.

What you can do:

• Clean gutters at least twice a year (The ideal months are Spring and Fall)
• Install gutter guards to reduce debris buildup
• Check your downspouts and ensure water is directed away from the building
• After storms, do a quick visual check for blockages or overflow

Want to know more about boosting your roof’s lifespan through simple maintenance?

👉 Maximizing Roof Lifespan: Tips for Maintenance

3. Leaks Around Flashing & Roof Penetrations

Roofs are most vulnerable in the areas where they’ve been pierced—think chimneys, vents, skylights, and HVAC mounts. These spots require flashing, a thin piece of metal that redirects water away from seams and joints.

Why it’s a problem:

Over time, flashing can fail due to:

• Constant expansion and contraction from temperature swings
• Corroded metal
• Poor installation or improper sealing
• Moss or debris buildup pushing it out of place

A flashing leak isn’t always apparent at first. It might start as a small drip in the attic or a stain on your ceiling. Still, if ignored, it can quickly turn into costly water damage.

What you can do:

• Inspect flashing annually (especially after heavy rain or windstorms)
• Look for rust, gaps, or lifted edges around vents and chimneys
• Call a professional if you notice water stains or mold near these areas

At Valley Roofing, we routinely catch these issues early during inspections, preventing major repairs down the road.

4. Aging or Damaged Shingles

Your roof’s shingles are its first line of defense against the elements. But even the toughest shingles have a lifespan—especially in the Willamette Valley, where they’re subjected to constant rain, seasonal windstorms, and UV exposure during the dry months.

• Common signs of shingle damage include:
• Curling or cupping at the edges
• Cracked or brittle surfaces
• Bald spots where granules have worn off
• Missing or loose shingles

Why it’s a problem:

Damaged shingles expose the underlayment (and sometimes even the roof decking) to moisture. Water intrusion can lead to:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Damaged insulation or drywall
• Premature structural deterioration

One or two missing shingles might not seem like a big deal, but it can be the weak spot that causes major leaks over time.

What you can do:

• Look up at your roof regularly, especially after a storm
• Check for shingle debris in gutters or on the ground
• If your roof is more than 15–20 years old, consider scheduling an inspection

5. Water Intrusion & Hidden Structural Damage

Not all roofing problems are visible from the outside. Some of the most damaging issues we see start inside the roof, where trapped moisture can quietly wreak havoc.

Where we find hidden damage:

• Attic spaces with poor ventilation
• Roof decking softened by long-term moisture exposure
• Areas around chimneys or dormers where flashing has failed
• Flat roofs with standing water or saturated insulation

What it can lead to:

• Mold infestations
• Warped or rotting wood
• Insulation that no longer functions
• Sagging rooflines and compromised structural integrity

How to detect it:

• Water stains on ceilings or upper walls
• Musty smells in upper rooms or attic spaces
• Sudden increases in heating or cooling bills (a sign of moisture-compromised insulation)
• Sagging drywall or bubbling paint

These issues often require more than patchwork—they demand a complete evaluation. That’s where Valley Roofing comes in. We assess the damage and provide solutions that not only fix the problem but also help prevent it from happening again.

How Valley Roofing Can Help

As a family-owned business deeply rooted in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley, we know these problems inside and out. More importantly, we know how to fix them.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Over 12 years of local roofing experience
• Experts in both residential and commercial roofing
• Honest, practical advice—we won’t upsell you something you don’t need
• Quality craftsmanship guaranteed

We understand our local climate’s unique challenges and tailor our approach to meet them head-on. From complete roof replacements to leak diagnostics and storm damage repairs, we’re here when you need us.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

We can’t say it enough: don’t wait for a leak to appear before checking your roof. Regular maintenance, visual checks, and seasonal upkeep can help you locate any damages and get to them before they get worse.

Want help knowing what to look for? Check out these resources:

• Importance of Yearly Roof Maintenance
• Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist
• Roof Maintenance Tips for Every Season
• Maximizing Roof Lifespan: Tips for Maintenance

Rain Happens—Let’s Make Sure Your Roof Can Handle It

Here in the Willamette Valley, rain is just a part of life. And while it makes our landscapes lush and green, it also seriously strains your roof.

To recap, here are the top five roofing issues we commonly see:

• Moss and algae growth
• Clogged gutters and poor drainage
• Leaks around flashing and penetrations
• Aging or damaged shingles
• Water intrusion and hidden structural damage

If you suspect your roof might show signs of wear—or if you’d just like peace of mind—reach out to Valley Roofing. We’re here to help you protect your home or business with expert insight, reliable craftsmanship, and a roof you can count on.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a free inspection or consultation.