Preparing for Arizona’s Winter Rains
Increased Rain Can Mean More Roof Leaks
Though we are known for our monsoon season, the Phoenix and Tucson areas tend to receive most of their rain in the winter, from January through March. As such, this season is particularly hard on our roofs. However, as a homeowner, there are several things you can do to prepare for the rainy season.
To prepare your roof for the increased rains we see from January through March, you should:
- Clear your roof and drainage system of any debris
- Make sure leaves have not built up around your chimney, skylights, and other roof installations
- Clear out your roof drainage system to ensure that it is flowing freely
- Schedule roof repairs with a professional roofer, like Lyons Roofing
November and December are also good times to schedule your annual roof maintenance if you still need to. Annual maintenance makes a big difference when protecting your roof from winter rains. During this appointment, our team will inspect your roof, noting any wear or damage, allowing you to make repairs before the rainy season begins.
Signs of a Roof Leak
Even the most well-maintained roof can suffer a leak if it is hit hard enough by the rain. For example, asphalt roofs can suffer granule loss, leaving the shingles more vulnerable to leaks. Similarly, tiny holes or cracks in aging shingles may also lead to leaking and moisture issues.
You may have a roof leak if you notice any of the following signs:
- Signs of mold or mildew in your attic or crawlspace
- Water staining inside your attic or on your ceilings
- You notice that your attic insulation is damp or wet
- Your roof shingles are peeling or coming up
- You’re missing shingles or your flashing is damaged
- Parts of your roof are sagging or is warped
You should call in our professionals for repairs at the first signs of a roof leak. Even small leaks can lead to major problems if ignored. Over time, moisture degrades roofing materials, and small leaks can quickly turn into large leaks that do significant property damage and other issues.
Other moisture-related roof issues:
- Algae and moss growth
- Mold and mildew growth
- Rotting of wood in your roof structure
Is Now a Good Time to Replace Your Roof?
As the end of the year approaches, you may wonder if you should replace your roof now or wait until the new year. The holiday season can be busy, and putting your roof replacement off may be tempting. However, if you know you need a roof replacement, doing so before January may be a good idea. In addition to avoiding potential damage caused by the upcoming rainy season, you may be able to take advantage of end-of-year deals and rebates offered by manufacturers.
It may be worth replacing your roof now if:
- Your current roof is in poor condition
- Waiting to replace your roof leaves you vulnerable to property damage from bad weather, pests, or other issues
- You have time in your schedule and budget to replace it now
- You want to take advantage of current materials pricing and rebates
Another major reason many people are considering replacing their roofing materials now is the concern over the rising cost of materials. With supply chain issues still plaguing the roofing industry, some roofing materials have increased in price dramatically, and many project that prices will continue to rise. Buying your roofing materials and scheduling your replacement now may be the best option for getting the best price on your roofing materials.
If you are unsure whether or not your roof can handle the upcoming rainy season or need help deciding if now is the right time to replace your roof, call Lyons Roofing. Our team can help you make the decision that is right for you. We never push our customers to buy products or services they do not need, and you can rely on us to give you our honest advice.
