Moisture-detecting Scanners
Moisture-detecting Scanners | Roof Repair | Roofing | Hillsboro
From relentless Pacific Northwest rains to surprise summer heatwaves, Hillsboro roofs endure a lot—and hidden moisture is often the silent culprit behind premature damage. HEP’s technicians sweep every square foot with state-of-the-art moisture-detecting scanners that read what the naked eye can’t, revealing trapped water pockets before they rot decking or invade your attic. The result is a faster, cleaner, data-driven roof repair that targets only compromised areas, saving you materials, labor, and future headaches.
Whether you’re dealing with an active leak or planning a preventative inspection, our certified crew arrives equipped to document moisture levels in real time, give you a transparent report, and get your roof back to peak performance the same day. Trust the local pros who turn high-tech diagnostics into lasting craftsmanship—HEP keeps Hillsboro covered, rain or shine.
FAQs
What is a moisture-detecting scanner and how is it used in roof repair?
A moisture-detecting scanner is an electronic, non-destructive diagnostic tool that emits low-frequency radio waves through roofing materials and measures the return signal. Variations in the signal reveal pockets of trapped water or saturated insulation hidden beneath the roof surface. During a service visit, our technicians methodically grid-scan your Hillsboro roof, mark wet areas with removable chalk, and store the readings in a digital report. The scan shows precisely where the roofing system has been compromised, allowing us to target repairs instead of replacing perfectly healthy sections.
Why is moisture detection especially important for roofs in Hillsboro?
Hillsboro’s climate sees over 37 inches of rain a year and frequent freeze-thaw cycles. Even small membrane punctures or loose shingles can let water seep into insulation, decking, or structural members. Because our region also experiences moss growth and morning dew, moisture can linger in concealed layers long before interior leaks appear. Early moisture detection prevents rot, mold, loss of R-value, and costly structural damage. A yearly scan is a proactive way for Hillsboro homeowners and facility managers to keep their roofing warranties valid and extend the roof’s lifespan.
How accurate are your non-invasive scanners compared with core sampling or infrared imaging?
Our calibrated capacitance scanners detect moisture to a depth of 3–4 inches with accuracy within ±1% of core sampling readings. Unlike infrared surveys—which can be skewed by surface temperature changes—capacitance scanners read the dielectric constant of the material itself, so overcast Oregon skies don’t compromise the results. We still perform selective core cuts only where the scanner indicates high saturation, giving you laboratory-verified confirmation without peppering the entire roof with holes.
Will the scanning process damage my roof or disrupt occupants?
No. The scanner’s smooth Teflon-coated plate glides over the roof surface without scratching coatings or granules. It is completely silent, emits no harmful radiation, and does not require removing ballast or vegetation. For occupied commercial buildings, we schedule scans outside peak business hours when convenient; residential scans usually take less than 90 minutes and homeowners can stay inside the whole time.
What happens if moisture is detected—do you handle the repairs as well?
Absolutely. You’ll receive a color-coded moisture map, photos, and a prioritized action plan. Minor issues may only need patching and sealant. Moderate saturation could require replacing insulation boards and re-laying membrane in localized areas. Severe or widespread damage can prompt a partial or full re-roof. Because we’re a licensed Hillsboro roofing contractor, we can move directly from diagnosis to repair, streamlining permits, materials ordering, and warranty processing.
How much does a moisture scan cost in Hillsboro and how long does it take?
For residential roofs up to 3,000 sq ft, a full moisture scan with report starts at $295. Each additional 1,000 sq ft adds about $60. Commercial flat roofs are priced from $0.08–$0.12 per square foot depending on access and complexity. Most scans take 45–120 minutes on site, and you’ll receive the digital report within 24 hours. If you schedule recommended repairs with us, the scan fee is credited toward the repair invoice, effectively making the diagnostic free.