How extreme weather impacts Arizona roofs – And how to protect yours

AskARoofer Expert Henry Staggs says a little roof care today can save you from major headaches (and expenses) tomorrow.

Arizona’s weather is no joke, and if you’ve lived here long enough, you know our roofs take a beating. From scorching heat to monsoon rains, high winds, hail and occasional snow, every extreme event stresses your roof. Whether you own a residential home or a commercial building, understanding how these elements impact your roof — and what you can do about it — can save you from expensive repairs.

The Arizona weather threats your roof faces

Heavy rain and flash flooding: Monsoon season brings sudden, heavy downpours that test the durability of your roof. If you drainage system isn’t working correctly, ponding water can sit on flat roofs, leading to leaks and structural damage. Sloped roofs can also suffer if gutters are clogged, and water starts backing up under shingles or tiles.

Prevention tip: Clean out your gutters and scuppers before monsoon season. Have a professional inspection for weak spots where water might penetrate.

High winds and haboobs: Arizona’s dust storms and high winds can rip shingles off, damage flashing and send debris flying into your roof. Haboobs carry fine dust that can clog drainage systems, and in some cases, the wind can cause uplift, loosening roofing materials.

Prevention tip: Check for loose or curling shingles, secure any lightweight objects around your property and reinforce vulnerable roof edges before storm season.

Hail damage: Hail may not be an everyday event here, but it can be brutal on roofs when it happens. Asphalt shingles can lose granules, exposing the underlayment. Tile roofs can crack, and even metal roofing can suffer dents. The worst part? Hail damage isn’t always visible from the ground, so minor issues often go unnoticed — until a leak shows up months later.

Prevention tip: If a hailstorm hits your area, schedule an inspection to catch damage early. If you’re replacing your roof, consider impact-resistant materials.

Snow and freeze-thaw cycles (yes, it happens!): Arizona may be known for its heat, but certain areas, especially northern regions and even some parts of East Valley have occasional snow and freezing temperatures. When the temperature drops suddenly, materials expand and contract, leading to cracks, leaks and weakened seals. This is especially true for older roofs.

Prevention tip: Proper insulation and ventilation help regulate temperature fluctuations. If your area sees freezing temperatures, have a roofer check for small cracks that could expand over time.

The best defense: Regular maintenance and proactive inspections

Most roof problems don’t happen overnight, they start small and get worse when left unchecked. That’s why regular inspections and maintenance are key to protecting your investment. Before monsoon season, after a hailstorm or even if you just notice something looking “off,” it’s always best to have a professional look.

A little prevention today can save you from major headaches (and expenses) tomorrow. Taking care of your roof is one of the best things you can do for your home or commercial building. 

Need help with your roof in Arizona? Call or text Henry at (480) 435-5190 or visit him online at www.thearizonaroofer.com. You can also explore AskARoofer.com for more trusted roofing professionals in Arizona.