5 ways to prevent roof damage

By Henry Staggs, The Arizona Roofer.

Give yourself peace of mind by planning regular roof maintenance. 

A well-maintained roof is one of the most critical components of your home. It protects from the elements, energy efficiency and overall integrity. When properly cared for, your roof can last for decades, but neglecting it can lead to costly repairs, early replacements and potential damage to the interior of your home.

The need for preventative roof maintenance is even more important because of the extreme weather we experience. From the heat in the summer to the monsoon rains, your roof is constantly being hit with heat or water. With some basic and affordable preventative maintenance steps, you will extend your roof's life and avoid needing expensive surprise repairs or a costly premature replacement.

Having worked in the roofing business for many years and seen thousands of roofs across the Phoenix Valley, I can tell you one thing with certainty: homeowners often overlook preventative roof maintenance. People don't see their roof, and as a result, they assume it's okay. The typical mindset is, "If it's not leaking, why should I fix it?" But that's precisely the problem: you don't want to wait until your roof leaks to address the issue.

Here's the truth: preventative care can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. In this blog post, I'll share some practical steps you can take to ensure that your roof is in great shape for as long as possible.

Why preventative maintenance matters 

Most homeowners don't realize that their roof requires more than an occasional glance. Roof systems can handle a lot of wear and tear but are not indestructible. Arizona's unique climate puts your roof through a lot of stress, including:

• Intense heat: Arizona's summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, causing shingles and other roofing materials to expand, contract and crack over time.
• Monsoon season: The heavy rains and occasional hailstorms during monsoon season can quickly expose vulnerabilities in your roof.
• Windstorms: High winds can damage shingles, loosen flashing and even tear off roof sections.
• When roofs aren't correctly maintained, minor issues can quickly escalate into major, expensive problems. A little leak can go unnoticed and develop into significant water damage, leading to mold, mildew and even structural damage to your home.

Preventative maintenance checklist

Here are some steps every homeowner should consider to extend the life of their roof:

1 - Regular roof inspections

One of the most important aspects of roof maintenance is scheduling regular inspections. Even if your roof appears in good condition from the ground, hidden issues may need attention. You should have your roof professionally inspected at least once a year, emphasizing the period before the monsoon season begins. In Arizona, that means planning for an inspection in late spring or early summer (around May or June).

An inspection will allow professionals to check for any signs of wear, such as cracked or curled shingles, missing tiles or damaged flashing around chimneys and vents. It's always better to catch problems before they become expensive disasters.

2 - Minor repairs

Once your roof is inspected, ensure any minor issues are promptly addressed. This includes fixing small leaks, replacing broken shingles or tightening loose flashing around vents and chimneys. Often, these issues may seem insignificant, but if left unchecked, they can lead to much larger problems.

For example, a small leak can cause wood rot in the roof's structure, allowing mold to develop or water may seep into your home, damaging ceilings, walls and insulation. If you're unsure whether a repair is necessary, having a professional take care of it is always better.

3 - Gutter maintenance

Your gutters are vital to keeping your roof in good shape. For gutters blocked with debris such as leaves, branches and dirt, water can back up and cause damage to the roof. Water buildup can lead to mold and rot, particularly in the roofing materials and the fascia (the board that supports the roof's edge). Keeping gutters clear helps ensure that water drains away from your roof and foundation.

If you don't already have gutters, consider having them installed. Gutters help protect your roof and preserve your landscape by directing water away from your foundation, preventing erosion and damage.

4 - Roof revitalization with Gonanno Roof Revive

If your asphalt shingle roof is aging, consider a roof revitalization treatment, such as Gonanno Roof Revive. This product is designed to restore the flexibility and waterproofing of older shingles, giving your roof an extended lease on life without needing a complete replacement.

Gonanno Roof Revive penetrates the shingles, restoring their natural properties and improving their ability to shed water. It also shields the roof from the harsh Arizona sun. The best part? With Gonanno Roof Revive, you add up to 10 years to the service life of your roof, all backed by a 10-year warranty.

5 - Tree and debris management

Overhanging trees can damage your roof. Branches that brush against your roof can scrape and damage shingles, while fallen leaves and twigs can clog gutters and cause water buildup. It's important to regularly trim any trees that are near your roof to avoid these potential problems. By keeping trees well-maintained, you can also prevent branches from falling during strong winds or monsoon storms.

The benefits of preventative roof care

1 - Cost savings

Addressing minor issues before they become big problems will save you significant money in the long run. Roof repairs, preeminent ones, can be costly. It's always more cost-effective to proactively catch problems early rather than wait for a significant leak or structural issue.

2 - Increased home value

A well-maintained roof adds value to your home. If you plan to sell your home, a well-cared-for roof will increase curb appeal and help boost its resale value. Buyers are more likely to be interested in a home that has regular maintenance and is free from the worry of a roof replacement.

3 - Peace of mind

The peace of mind of knowing your roof is in good condition cannot be overstated. Whether it's the summer sun, the monsoon rains or the high winds, you'll be able to realize that your roof can handle whatever comes.

Don't wait until there's a problem – act now

Proactive roof maintenance ensures your home remains safe and dry for years. Don't wait until the monsoon season hits or until you notice a leak inside your home. Schedule your roof inspection today and let a professional take care of your roof so you don't have to worry about costly repairs in the future.