With its dry climate, low rainfall, lack of strong wind, and extremely low risk of snow and ice, Phoenix may seem like it would be kind on roofs. However, the high heat of its long summer and other seasonal considerations mean Arizona homeowners need to prioritize seasonal roof maintenance to keep their homes in good condition.
In this post, we will explore handy tips for every season to help you avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your Phoenix roof.
Spring
The mild spring months are the perfect time to inspect your roof and get it ready for the rigors of summer. As a homeowner, prioritize your safety by performing a general inspection from ground level. A 2024 study found that falls during roof maintenance by the general populace can result in critical head and spinal injuries, so it is not worth taking the risk.
Walk around your home and look for the following:
- Missing or loose tiles/shingles
- Damaged tiles/shingles
- Accumulation of debris in gutters and valleys
- Patches of mold or algae
If you notice any of these issues, call a professional roofing company to investigate further. They may also spot issues that are not visible from ground level. They have the safety equipment, specialist tools, and expert knowledge to fix any issues and get your roof in great shape for the summer.
Summer
Summers in Phoenix and Mesa can be unpredictable. We know the temperatures will skyrocket, regularly hitting over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which puts a lot of stress on roofing materials. What’s less predictable is the summer monsoon.
The monsoon can bring heavy thunderstorms, strong winds, and damaging hailstorms. However, 2023 and 2024 saw well-below-normal rainfall.
Every Arizona homeowner should prepare for all eventualities by calling roofing professionals to check the following:
- Attic ventilation: If your attic is not properly ventilated, it can get extremely hot during the summer months. If the heat cannot escape, it puts the fabric of your roof, especially asphalt shingles, under huge pressure. This can cause them to break down more quickly, leading to more frequent repairs and a shorter roof lifespan. Roofing experts can check whether your ventilation system is working correctly and recommend any necessary repairs or upgrades.
- Skylights and chimneys: The flashing and seals around skylights and chimneys can degrade over time, allowing water to get into the fabric of your roof. Getting these inspected at the start of the summer and ensuring any repairs are carried out can prevent leaks when the monsoon hits.
- Condition of shingles/tiles: Over time, UV rays can cause roof shingles to become brittle, crack, and curl. If a roofing company does not replace these damaged shingles promptly, you could face leaks when the summer rains come.
Fall
Fall is a time of calm before the challenging conditions of winter. This is prime time to take stock of how your roof fared through the heat and monsoon of the summer and ensure it is ready to protect your home during the cooler months.
A fall inspection should include:
- Checking the valleys and gutters regularly, especially if your home is surrounded by trees that are shedding leaves
- Ensuring your roof insulation is in good condition to support your heating system during the colder months
- Trimming overhanging branches to reduce the risk of damage
Winter
Freezing temperatures are uncommon in Phoenix and the surrounding areas – the last time it dropped below 32 degrees here was January 2, 2019. So, while most homeowners do not have to worry about ice, they still need to consider increased rain and humidity.
To minimize the risk of leaks and condensation build-up, do the following:
- Keep your gutters clean
- Regularly inspect your roof from the ground, looking for water build-up or sagging patches
- Promptly call the professionals if there are any signs of leaks in your home
Call Overson Roofing for Year-Round Roof Maintenance
Seasonal homeowner inspections are essential for routine cleaning, simple maintenance, and spotting problems. However, there is no substitute for regular inspections from roofing experts.
At Overson Roofing, we have over 40 years of experience in keeping Phoenix and Mesa roofs in excellent condition in all seasons. Our reviews show that we are the name to trust for everything from minor repairs to roof replacements.
Give your roof the attention it deserves by scheduling a free roof estimate. Call Overson Roofing at 480-354-2564 or complete our contact form, and we will call you back in 24 hours or less.