“Fall” is a relative term. When authorities don’t issue public health warning heat advisories daily, it’s fall in Phoenix. Nevertheless, the temperature changes drastically in the “fall,” and drastic temperature changes are public enemy number one for most roofs. That’s why it’s so essential to maintain your fall roofing in Phoenix.
The professionals at Four Peaks Roofing spend much time and energy getting your roof through the hot summer months. But we don’t forget about the other three seasons in the year. Roofs that are healthy twelve months a year last much longer and are more durable than roofs designed only for summer.
Why Bother with Your Roof During the Fall?
In many parts of the country, fall is the last opportunity to prepare a roof for the winter. In Phoenix, because temperatures are lower and conditions are easier on roofing contractors, fall is the first chance to do some work the homeowner may have put off.
If it rains in Phoenix, it’s usually during the late fall and early winter. After months of dry weather, an inch or two of moisture has a profound effect on most roofs. A fall roof inspection helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate, such as loose or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks.
The same principles apply to Phoenix winters. Although Arizona winters are mild compared to other states, they can still bring occasional storms or temperature fluctuations. Maintaining your roof in the fall ensures it’s ready to handle these conditions without causing problems like leaks or structural damage.
Furthermore, a well-maintained roof ensures proper ventilation and insulation, improving a home’s energy efficiency. Energy efficiency means savings on heating and cooling costs throughout the year.
Fall Maintenance Tips
Arizona isn’t wet, but it’s humid. Excessive humidity usually causes roofing materials to rot and buckle. A touch-up job usually addresses the problem, but roof leaks and other more severe issues are almost inevitable without much attention. Roof streaking is the best telltale sign of moisture buildup.
Lack of moisture is also an issue in dry years. If the shingles are too dry, they become brittle, blister, crack, and break down.
The sludge sure collects around those downspouts. Lots of material passes through small downspouts, which quickly become clogged. That’s especially true if something large, like a dead bird or other critter, becomes lodged in or near a downspout. It’s hard to believe, but a clogged-up downspout could ruin your roof or other parts of the home.
Likewise, ensure that gutters are clean and don’t compromise a roof’s delicate structural integrity. Cleaning gutters is especially a priority for homes with heavy tile, clay, or other roofs. Any added weight could be disastrous.
Check the insulation as well. This protective layer does more than keep cold weather out in cold weather states. Proper insulation contributes to proper airflow and ventilation, reducing the risk of colds, flu, and other airborne diseases. Furthermore, proper insulation reduces heating and cooling costs, thus increasing comfort.
The weather isn’t the only threat to your roof. Arizona has one of the largest concentrations of termites in the country. On average, each acre of land in the Grand Canyon State contains between three and five termite colonies of up to 100,000 termites per colony. Signs of a termite or other pest infestation include droppings, sawdust, and rotten wood.
Speaking of unusual threats, an interior roof inspection is often as telling as an exterior inspection. Look for spots of daylight, rot, water stains, or any weaknesses in the shingles.
There’s only so much that homeowners can do on their own. It’s always a good idea to get a professional and reliable roofing contractor who sees and knows roofs thoroughly to check up on your roof once a year.
Contact us to set up your roof inspection schedule.
