As the scorching Arizona summer gives way to cooler temperatures, it is the perfect time of the year to ensure your roof is ready for the upcoming winter season. The summer months can take a toll on your roof, regardless of the type of material, and cause significant damage that may have gone unnoticed… until now.
Fall maintenance is essential for your roof!
Craven Construction brings over 20 years of roofing experience to share our most practical fall maintenance tips. Keep reading if you want to make sure your roof is in top condition and prepared for the cooler, winter months.
1. Clean Gutters & Downspouts
This is likely one job that everyone hates to do, but it is crucial to clear your gutters and downspouts of debris to prepare for the upcoming months. Arizona sees a lot of monsoons, which bring heavy rains and high winds. Rain and wind can drop leaves, sticks, dirt, and other debris into your gutter system, potentially causing water to back up.
When water backs up into the roofing system, it can lead to roof damage and even leak inside your home. Make sure to regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Gutter guards are a great installation to prevent debris buildup.
2. Inspect The Roof For Damage
A visual inspection of the roof surface is a crucial step in fall maintenance. This can be down from the ground or by accessing the roof with proper safety measures in place. Look for missing or damaged materials, cracks, or signs of wear and tear. Pay close attention to areas where two roof slopes meet, as they are most vulnerable to leaks. If you notice any issues, such as granule loss on shingles, broken tiles, or damaged flashing, don’t hesitate to contact Craven Construction for a professional assessment. We will take a look at the damage and provide you a free estimate for prompt roofing repair.
3. Trim Branches
Branches that hang over your roof can easily become damaging, especially when an Arizona monsoon rolls through the area. Trimming branches is another key step in fall roofing maintenance. Tree branches can easily scrape, puncture, or damage your roof if they are too close to your roof.
Furthermore, if a large tree branch is dead or dying and hanging over your roof, the chance of significant damage is imminent. Save yourself the hassle by trimming branches back before they become an issue or have a tree trimmer offer their expert opinion about the health of your trees.
4. Check For Leaks
Your attic is a key indicator of your roof’s health. While completing your fall roofing maintenance, be sure to examine the attic for signs of leaks or water damage. Insulation, wood, and rafters should be dry and in good condition. Look for water stains, damp spots, or signs of mold growth. If you see anything that indicates a leak, you will want to address them immediately to prevent further damage and potential health issues.
5. Insulate & Ventilate Your Attic
While examining your attic for leaks, be sure to take note of the insulation and ventilation. Just because we live in Arizona, doesn’t mean our houses don’t need to be insulated. Proper insulation and ventilation play a significant role in your roofing system and maintaining a stable temperature inside your home. Consider adding insulation or improving the ventilation as needed. Doing so will not only protect your roof, but it will also help your home’s energy efficiency.
6. Seal Roof Penetrations
Vents, chimneys, and skylights are all roof penetrations and easy entry points for water into the roofing system. Sealing around these items is another important fall maintenance item that will help your roof. Over time, gaps or cracks can form around these items. Properly sealing them to prevent water from entry will help prevent significant damage to your home. Using high-quality sealants and flashing materials will ensure a watertight seal that can withstand Arizona’s temperature fluctuations.
7. Check The Flashing
If your roofing system already has flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights, you will want to examine them because over time they will deteriorate. Clear debris and check for signs of wear or damage. Replace or repair flashing as necessary to maintain a watertight seal.
Well-maintained flashing is essential for preventing leaks and ensuring the longevity of your roof. If your roof does not have flashing installed, call Craven Construction to install flashing before a leak forms.
8. Schedule A Professional Roof Inspection
A professional roofing inspection will provide a more comprehensive assessment of your roofing system. Our experienced roofers can identify hidden issues and provide specific recommendations for maintenance or repairs based on the needs of your roof. Scheduling a professional roof inspection can give you peace of mind as you head into the winter seasons.
Arizona Roofing Maintenance
By completing fall roofing maintenance, you will ensure that your roof is well-prepared to face the upcoming Arizona winter. Remember that Craven Construction is here to provide expert roofing services, whether you need maintenance, repairs, or a new roof installation. Contact us today to schedule your FREE estimate and safeguard your home for the seasons ahead.
Is Your Roof In Need Of Fall Maintenance?
About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.