Roof leaks in Arizona are fairly common, and most homeowners will have to deal with a roof leak at some point. Leaks are inconvenient and can be difficult to locate, especially if they start out as a small drip. And those small drips can cause a multitude of problems including mold buildup, attic and ceiling damage, higher utility bills, fire hazards, and many more headaches.
In Arizona, most roofing systems can last between 15 – 20 years. This time frame, which can be as low as 10 years and as high as 30 years, largely depends on the quality of the roofing material, the exposure to elements, and other factors. Oftentimes, homeowners don’t even notice a roof leak in Arizona until they start seeing ceiling stains or wall drips. Thankfully, there are signs we can look out for to recognize a leak more quickly.
Although it may be tricky to notice a roof leak in Arizona, there are signs you should watch for that may indicate you have a leak. Don’t worry—you don’t necessarily have to be a pro to identify a leak! As often as possible, (safely) inspect your roof and look for these signs of damage to prevent roof leaks in Arizona.
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing product. They are generally made from a material soaked in asphalt and covered with tiny, rough granules attached with asphalt to the backing. Over time, shingles will begin to wear down and may become warped or cracked. They may even begin to lose granules. Once this happens, the shingles may become loose and you might lose some due to sun exposure, wind, rain, or hail. If the underlayment is exposed, it may become damaged and eventually lead to leaks. If you have old or damaged shingles, you should ask yourself, “Should I just replace my own shingle roof?”
Flashing is the metal piece that connects roof areas, such as wall and chimney seams. It is commonly used to direct water away from certain areas of your roof to prevent leaking. Flashing may be used in conjunction with caulking to create a water-resistant barrier on the roof. Falling debris or wind can dislodge the flashing, leaving the roof exposed to water damage. If you spot damage in your roof’s flashing, don’t wait to call a professional roofer who can repair it before you get water damage.
Even though Arizona gets a minimal amount of rainfall overall, we can get a large amount of rain in a short time during monsoons. Heavy rains, high winds, and roof debris like leaves and branches can all combine to create blockages in your gutters and drains. Clogs may lead to standing water, which will eventually lead to roof leaks. In the worst cases, standing water can cause your roof to collapse. It’s important to check your gutters and drains after monsoons and clear any blockages that may have formed. This will help prevent buildup and future damage.
Roofing nails are used to secure shingles in place. Over time, however, these roofing nails can become loose and raised. If not found and repaired, these nails may come out entirely, creating holes in your roof that can lead to water seepage and leaks. Unfortunately, raised roof nails are difficult to spot when looking at the roof. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced roofing contractor inspect your roof. Professional roofers know exactly what to look for and can spot loose or raised roofing nails that may cause problems later on. We recommend getting your roof inspected at least twice a year. Remember: it’s better to catch damage as early as possible so you don’t have to deal with leaks and possibly an entire roof replacement.
Roofs have an important job—they protect our homes from the elements and keep us safe and dry all year long. That being said, roofs undergo a good amount of wear and tear. Even the best roofs will begin to deteriorate over time. In Arizona, roofs deal with intense weather conditions like strong winds, heavy rains, and harsh sunlight, which cause roofing materials to weaken and roof leaks in Arizona to start. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan (around 20 years or so), it may be time to replace it. Capstone Roofing can help with your next roof replacement!
Skylights are a popular roof feature in Arizona. They let in lots of natural light and add a beautiful look to your house. However, if installed incorrectly, skylights can be prone to leaking. Additionally, the trim around skylights, chimneys, and roof vents will dry out and crack over time due to constant exposure to the elements. Water can seep into the smallest of holes, causing significant damage and huge leak issues on your roof. That’s why it’s important to get your entire roof inspected every 6 months! Preventative measures can save you lots of time, stress, and money in the long run.
Oftentimes, the first sign of roof leaks in Arizona is water spots on the walls or ceilings. Water spots are small, discolored spots that appear near the source of the leak. Even though they may start out small, they will grow if the leak is left unrepaired. Walls that have significant water damage may show discolored drip streaks or become warped or swollen. Not only are water spots unsightly, but they can be time-consuming and expensive to repair. If you see water spots in your home, it’s time to call a professional roofer to locate and fix your roof leak!
If you’ve never dealt with a roof leak before, chances are you have some questions. That’s where we can help! We’ve included some of the most frequently asked questions about roof leaks so you can be prepared.
First thing’s first: don’t panic! Roof leaks can happen after major weather events or if your roof is old. Here is what you can do if your roof is actively leaking.
Unfortunately, roof leaks in Arizona can be dangerous. Not only do they cause damage to your home and furniture, but they can also impact your health. Here are some of the dangers of a leaky roof:
Yes! We recommend calling a professional roofing company as soon as you notice a leak in your roof. Professionals have the knowledge and experience to thoroughly inspect your roof and alert you of any leaks. They also have the proper tools to repair leaks efficiently and effectively.
Arizona is home to some of the harshest weather in the United States. Our summer months have intense heat, prolonged sunlight, and heavy rain during monsoons. Roofs take a beating in this extreme weather, which can lead to damage and eventually leaks. It’s especially important to have your roof inspected in Arizona to make sure it can handle harsh summer weather.
Roofs generally have a lifespan of 15 – 20 years. This may seem like a long time, but remember that roofs need routine maintenance to function properly. As such, you should get your roof inspected at least twice a year. Your roof may also need to be replaced if it is nearing the end of its lifespan (about 20 years) or if it has sustained significant damage. Capstone roofing offers thorough roof inspections—contact us to learn more!
Have additional questions? Feel free to call us at (602) 486-0763 so we can help!
Roofs can last many years, but they still need regular inspections and maintenance to function properly. If you can safely inspect your roof and perform maintenance, go for it! Even performing basic maintenance like sweeping debris and clearing gutters can help you locate leaks and prevent damage. There is a lot that you can do to better maintain your roof, especially if it’s a tile roof.
Even when you are closely inspecting your roof, you might not always be able to see what is causing a leak. In other cases, you may not be comfortable (or able) to get on your roof to even attempt to look for evidence of leaks. Either way, we always recommend calling a professional roofing company to check the source of the leak for you. They will ensure the inspection is conducted safely and effectively and will alert you to any signs of damage or possible leaks. It is always a good idea to have your roof inspected by a professional regularly, especially if your home is prone to roof leaks in Arizona.
At Capstone Roofing we are happy to offer free estimates for your peace of mind. We will tell you what your options are, give you a fair price and perform work in a timely, safe, and professional manner. If you have roof leaks in Arizona, don’t hesitate to contact us right away!