Long wet seasons, tall evergreens and mild temperatures make Northwest roofs work hard. Many of the problems we are called for start at the roof but show up as rot at the fascia, soffits and walls below. Here are the issues we see most, and what to do about them.
Moss and debris
Shade and constant moisture let moss grow between shingles. It holds water against the roof and lifts shingle edges. Needles and leaves pile up in valleys and gutters and keep the roof edge wet.
Clogged or overflowing gutters
When gutters overflow, water soaks the fascia board and runs behind the gutter onto the roof deck edge and rafter tails. This is the most common cause of fascia rot we see.
Missing drip edge
Drip edge is a metal flashing at the roof edge that sends water into the gutter. Without it, water wicks back under the shingles and onto the fascia.
Missing kick-out flashing
Where a roof edge meets a wall, a small kick-out flashing diverts water into the gutter. Without it, roof water runs down the siding and rots the wall below, sometimes for years before anyone notices.
Poor attic ventilation
Blocked soffit vents trap warm, moist air in the attic, which can lead to condensation, mold and rot at the roof deck and rafter tails.
What we check at the roof edge
- Fascia and sub-fascia for soft spots
- Soffit panels and vents
- Rafter tails behind the gutter
- Drip edge and kick-out flashing
- Gutter slope and downspout drainage
Prevention checklist
- Clean gutters at least twice a year, more under evergreens
- Trim branches that hang over the roof
- Treat or remove moss gently, never with a pressure washer
- Make sure downspouts carry water away from the foundation
- Repaint fascia before the paint fails
Frequently asked questions
Do you replace roofs?
Is rotted fascia an emergency?
Can drip edge be added without a new roof?
