Roofing in Portland, OR

In the Pacific Northwest, a roof has to do one thing above all else: handle the wet. Portland receives about 36 inches of rain a year, but it is the constant drizzle and gray skies that allow moss to thrive. Whether you are restoring a Craftsman bungalow in Laurelhurst or maintaining a mid-century modern in the West Hills, your roof needs to breathe and shed water efficiently to survive.

Mr. Remodel connects you with the most qualified roofing talent in the Rose City. We partner with licensed contractors who understand the unique microclimates of Portland. The experts in our network know how to navigate everything from the Clean River Rewards stormwater discounts to the strict historic design reviews required in neighborhoods like Irvington and the Alphabet District.

Get a free, no-obligation quote from a trusted Portland roofer. 

Why Portland Homeowners Use Mr. Remodel

1. Moss and Algae Defense

The shade from our Douglas Firs, combined with constant moisture, makes moss the enemy. It lifts shingles and rots the wood deck underneath. The pros we connect you with specialize in installing zinc or copper strips near the ridge. When it rains, these metal ions wash down the roof and naturally prevent moss from growing.

2. Ecoroof and Green Roof Specialists

Portland is a leader in green building. Many homeowners are installing "Ecoroofs" (vegetated roofs) to manage stormwater. Our network includes specialists who can design these living roofs to meet thePortland Bureau of Environmental Services standards, potentially qualifying you for a discount on your sewer bill.

3. Oregon CCB Licensed

Contractors in Oregon must be licensed, bonded, and insured. Every pro in our network holds a valid license with theOregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). This ensures they carry the proper insurance to work on your home safely.

Average Cost of Roofing in Portland

Roofing costs in Portland are influenced by steep roof pitches common in historic homes and the high cost of disposal at Metro transfer stations. Below are estimates for typical homes in the metro area.

Common Roofing Challenges in Portland

1. Moss Buildup

If you live in a tree-lined neighborhood like Eastmoreland, moss is inevitable. If left unchecked, it acts like a sponge, holding water against your shingles. The experts we recommend offer safe moss removal that uses low-pressure washing or brushing, rather than high-pressure blasting that can strip the granules off your shingles.

2. Poor Ventilation

Mold in the attic is a common inspection killer when selling a home in Portland. Because of our damp winters, good airflow is critical. The contractors in our network often install additional ridge vents and soffit vents to keep the air moving and prevent condensation on the underside of the roof deck.

3. Historic District Restrictions

Replacing a roof in a historic district like Ladd's Addition requires approval. You generally cannot replace original wood shake with cheap asphalt. Our partners are experienced in sourcing "architectural composition" shingles that mimic the look of shake or slate to satisfy the landmarks commission.

4. The “West Hills” Wind

Homes in the West Hills and Skyline area are exposed to higher wind gusts than the valley floor. The pros we work with use high-wind nailing patterns (6 nails per shingle) to ensure your roof stays put during winter storms.

Composition Shingles vs. Metal Roofing

This is the main debate for homeowners in Multnomah County. Do you stick with traditional shingles or upgrade to metal to fight the trees?

Option A: Architectural Composition Shingles

• Best For: Classic bungalows in SE and NE Portland.
• The Benefit: They are affordable and blend in with historic neighborhoods. Many locals prefer brands like Malarkey, which uses rubberized asphalt to stay flexible in the cold.
• The Trade-off: Moss loves to grip the rough surface. You must commit to regular cleaning or keeping your trees trimmed back to let the sun hit the roof.

Option B: Standing Seam Metal

• Best For: Homes in the West Hills surrounded by fir trees.
• The Benefit: It is the ultimate defense against debris. Pine needles and moss slide right off the slick surface. It is virtually maintenance-free in our rainy climate.
• The Trade-off: It costs significantly more upfront. It also has a modern look that might not be allowed in strict historic districts without special approval.

Expert Advice: If you live under large fir trees, Metal is the best long-term investment to stop moss. For most urban neighborhoods, Composition Shingles offer the best value.

How Mr. Remodel Works

We make the process simple and eco-friendly.

• Recycling Focus: Portlanders care about the environment. Many of the pros we work with haul old shingles to specific recycling centers like the Suttle Road Recovery Facility. There, they are ground up and used in paving roads.

• Permit Management: The contractor handles the building permit with theCity of Portland Bureau of Development Services.

• Safety Cleanup: Crews use magnetic sweeps to ensure your driveway is safe for bikes and cars.

Serving the Entire Portland Metro

Mr. Remodel covers Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties.

• Portland Neighborhoods: Pearl District, Nob Hill, Hawthorne, Alberta Arts, St. Johns, Sellwood, Woodstock, Laurelhurst.
  
  
• Surrounding Cities: Beaverton, Gresham, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Hillsboro, Milwaukie, and West Linn.

FAQ: Roofing in Portland

Do I need a permit to replace my roof in Portland?

Yes. If you are replacing the sheathing or if your home is in a townhouse or wildfire hazard zone, a permit is required. Simple re-shingling often does not require one, but rules change. Verify current requirements atPortland Residential Permitting.

What is the Clean River Rewards program?

This is a discount program from the City of Portland. If you manage stormwater on your property by disconnecting downspouts or installing an Ecoroof, you can receive a discount on your sewer bill. Learn more at Clean River Rewards.

How do I get rid of moss on my roof?

Do not pressure wash it. High pressure destroys shingles. The pros in our network use a combination of brushing and applying a zinc sulfate powder that kills the moss over time. Installing zinc strips at the peak of the roof helps prevent it from coming back.

How do I check if a roofer is licensed?

You should always verify a contractor's license. In Oregon, you can check the status of any contractor by visiting theOregon CCB License Search. Look for an active license with no unpaid claims.

Are there special rules for the West Hills?

Yes. Some areas in the West Hills are designated as Wildfire Hazard Zones. If you live here, you may be required to use Class A fire-rated roofing materials like asphalt or metal, and cannot use untreated wood shakes.

Get Your Free Portland Roofing Quote

Do not let the drizzle turn into a leak. Whether you need a moss treatment in Tabor or a full roof replacement in Lake Oswego, Mr. Remodel is your link to the best pros in the Pacific Northwest.

Ready to protect your home? Request Your Free Quote Today.