Monsoon season in Chandler, Arizona, is no joke. Between the gusty winds, torrential rains, and lightning, your roof is constantly under assault. Unfortunately, a weak roof during monsoon season can lead to expensive repairs, leaks, and even structural damage to your home. By preparing your roof ahead of time, you’re safeguarding your biggest investment from the brutal storm season and avoiding last-minute chaos when a storm is on the horizon
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TLDR – Quick Guide:
- Inspect your roof for loose shingles, cracks, and signs of wear.
- Clear gutters and downspouts to avoid water buildup.
- Fix leaks immediately to prevent water damage.
- Trim trees to minimize the risk of falling branches.
- Consider roof replacement if your roof is old or showing significant damage.
- Monsoon storms can cause severe damage, so taking action early can save you from costly repairs in the middle of the storm season.
Detailed Breakdown:
1. Inspect Your Roof for Damage
Before the storms hit, it’s critical to inspect your roof. Pay special attention to:
- Loose or missing shingles: High winds can rip shingles off, leaving your roof exposed to rain damage. If you notice any, replace them ASAP.
- Cracks and holes: Even small gaps can allow water to seep through, leading to leaks inside your home.
- Worn materials: Roofing materials, like underlayment or flashing, degrade over time and may need replacement.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check the roof’s edges. Strong winds often start peeling at the edges, eventually causing large-scale damage.
2. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Monsoon rains can drop a lot of water in a short period. If your gutters are clogged, the water has nowhere to go, which can lead to:
- Roof leaks
- Foundation issues
- Basement flooding
Make sure to clear out any leaves, twigs, or other debris from your gutters and downspouts. Also, check that your downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation. Water backup in clogged gutters during a heavy downpour can increase the risk of leaks.
3. Trim Surrounding Trees
One of the most common sources of roof damage during monsoons is falling branches or entire trees being knocked down by strong winds. Regularly trim any trees that are too close to your home, especially those with large, heavy branches overhanging the roof.
- Bonus Tip: Keep an eye out for dead or dying trees. Monsoon winds can knock them over more easily, causing serious damage to your roof or house.
4. Check and Repair Leaks Immediately
Small leaks can turn into big problems during a monsoon. Even a minor leak can cause:
- Water damage inside your home
- Mold and mildew growth
- Ceiling stains and sagging
Don’t wait for the rain to get worse—if you find a leak, get it fixed right away.
5. Consider Roof Replacement Before the Season Starts
If your roof is more than 15-20 years old or showing serious signs of wear, replacing it before monsoon season could save you thousands in future repairs. Here’s why:
- Monsoon storms are brutal: Older roofs are more vulnerable to storm damage. The combination of high winds and heavy rain can cause shingles to fly off, leading to water damage inside your home.
- Damage may be hidden: Older roofs can have problems that aren’t immediately visible. For instance, the underlayment might be damaged or rotting.
- Insurance might not cover it: Some insurance policies won’t cover damage if your roof was already in bad shape before the storm hit.
A new, professionally installed roof is designed to withstand the intense conditions of Arizona’s monsoon season. And while a roof replacement is an investment, it’s far cheaper than fixing extensive storm damage.
6. Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance
Make sure your homeowner’s insurance covers roof damage from storms. Some policies may not fully cover storm-related damage if your roof is deemed to be in poor condition. You don’t want to be caught by surprise after a major storm, only to find out that you’re on the hook for the entire repair cost.
Key Takeaways
- Inspect your roof and repair any damage before monsoon season begins.
- Clean your gutters and trim nearby trees to prevent clogs and falling debris.
- Address leaks quickly to prevent water damage.
- If your roof is old or showing significant wear, consider replacing it now to avoid disaster.
- Check your insurance to ensure you’re covered for roof damage during the monsoon.
Taking these steps now will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe when the storm clouds roll in. Don’t wait until the first big monsoon storm to realize your roof isn’t ready—by then, it could be too late.
FAQs
Ideally, you should inspect your roof twice a year—before and after monsoon season. This helps catch potential problems early, ensuring your roof is ready to withstand the storms and then assessing any post-storm damage.
It depends on your experience and comfort level. Small fixes, like replacing a shingle or sealing a tiny crack, might be DIY-able. However, for more significant issues like sagging roofs, large leaks, or extensive shingle damage, it’s best to call a professional roofer.
Look for the following signs:
- Roof age of 15-20 years or more
- Frequent leaks
- Curling, cracked, or missing shingles
- Sagging roof deck
- Excessive granules in gutters (a sign that shingles are deteriorating)
If you notice any of these, it may be time for a new roof.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover storm-related roof damage. However, if your roof was already in poor condition, your claim might be denied. It’s a good idea to review your policy and ensure your roof is well-maintained before storm season.
After a monsoon storm, check for:
- Missing or curled shingles
- Water spots on ceilings
- Leaks or sagging areas in the roof
- Granules from shingles in gutters If you notice any of these, call a professional to assess the damage.