Thunderstorms are most common from mid-June through September, and include high winds, hail, and heavy rain that can seriously damage a roof. The right preventive measures protect your residential roofing system from summer storms to avoid extensive roof repairs. Use this guide to ensure your roofing system is ready to handle the warmer weather.

How to Prepare Your Roof for Warmer Weather 

1. Clean the Gutters

Remove organic debris that has settled in your gutters over the past months, such as leaves and pine needles. Clear gutters guide storm water away from the roofing system to the downspout. Clogged gutters allow rainwater to back up under roof shingles, causing leaks, underlayment rot, and mold growth. 

Rot and mold growth compromise structural stability by breaking down wood, while mold also causes allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, and wheezing. Clean your gutters early in the spring and again in the summer to avoid these issues.

2. Trim Tree Branches

Keep trees near your home trimmed back since strong storm winds can make them slam into your roofing system. They can also scratch the shingles or tiles and damage the gutter system. Routine trimming is extra essential if your location is subject to thunderstorms regardless of the season. For example, homeowners who reside in Phoenix experience thunderstorms year-round and therefore must be extra diligent about tree trimming if woody perennials are close to their homes. 

If the trimming is extensive, consider hiring a professional, as the task could become dangerous if you don't have the right equipment, such as cables and braces or a chainsaw. 

3. Schedule an Inspection

Schedule an inspection from a roofing contractor to check for issues like damaged flashing, daylight seeping through attic roof rafters, and clogged vents. The contractor will identify and fix problematic areas to fortify your residential roofing system against summer storms. 

Request annual inspections to stay ahead of issues and prolong the life of your roof. Depending on the age of your roof and the number of severe issues present, the contractor might recommend a replacement. For example, if there are excessive granule deposits in the gutter, the shingles have passed their expiration date and cannot provide sufficient protection. If it's combined with other problems, such as rotted underlayment that is causing roof sagging, call for replacement services. 

Prepare your roof for summer with services from Brown Roofing. The family-owned company in Phoenix, AZ, offers over 50 years of residential roofing experience, with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®. The company is certified to install GAF® and other renowned manufacturer products. Call (602) 626-5559 to schedule an inspection or learn more about their residential roofing services online.