Common Roof Problems- Phoenix, AZ

For homeowners who live in the Phoenix, Arizona area, know how brutal the summertime can be for us and our homes. Not only is the sun and heat causing us to almost pass out, but our roofs also endure some intense weather day in and day out that can create damage. Though we are known for our dry heat, Arizona has other weather conditions that create havoc for us homeowners. In this blog, we will go over the common roof problems we experience and solutions to ensure your roof remains sturdy and durable all year long.

Heat

Overtime, the harsh Arizona sun can be very brutal on our roofs. The roofing materials are deteriorating day by day being exposed to extreme temperatures and harmful UV rays. Asphalt shingles can crack, warp, or lose their granules due to the harsh outside heat.

With routine inspections, you will see signs of heat damage and have the opportunity to fix it before it becomes a bigger problem. If you’re in the market to replace your asphalt roof, consider using heat resistant materials such as tiles or metal. Or, your roofing contractor can apply a reflective roof coating to reduce the amount of heat being absorbed.

Monsoon

We love our monsoon seasons! Heavy rainfall, intense winds, and sometimes hail is exciting to us… like we don’t see it every year. Though it’s fun to watch, our roofs can suffer from structural damage and water leaks.

Prevent water from gathering on your roof by ensuring their is proper drainage. Routinely remove dirt and debris from the gutters and downspouts. Check for loose and damaged tiles or shingles.

Expand and Contract

During the heat of the day, the roof materials will expand while at night, they contract. This thermal shock overtime, causes the materials to lose it’s durability and break.

When replacing your roof, ask for materials that pose less of a thermal shock phenomenon. If you’re not replacing, routine inspections can assist in detecting early signs of damage. Having proper attic insulation can also minimize the effects of thermal shock.

Dust & Debris

We live in a state full of desert. The dust and debris buildup on your roof potentially blocking drains and gutters. When the water has no where to go but to stay sitting on your roof, this can lead to leaks.

Regularly inspect and clean your roof. Debris such as sticks, leaves, branches and dust can accumulate.

Harmful UV Rays

Excessive UV ray exposure breaks down roofing materials causing them to be brittle and lose their durability. This can result in leaks and decreased lifespan.

If it’s too late to choose UV-friendly roofing materials, apply a UV-protectant coating. Don’t skip out on routine maintenance as this can catch early signs of deteriorating roofing materials.

Installation

With every roof, comes a roofer who installed it. If your roof wasn’t properly installed by a knowledgeable, experienced, and licensed roofer, this can create issues like leaks and worst of all, collapse.

Find an honest and experienced roofer in your area. They will use the correct skills and materials to meet yours and your roofs standards.

Ventilation

In extremely hot climates, it is imperative to have proper roof and attic ventilation. Without proper ventilation, the increased heat under your roof can cause materials to deteriorate at a faster rate.

Be sure your attic is properly insulated and their is adequate ventilation allowing the hot air to escape.

Animals & Insects

Animals and insects create havoc to our roof with their nesting, chewing, and burrowing.

Yearly inspections aid in spotting early signs of rodent or pest damage. If this is the case, hire someone to get rid of these animals or insects.

When you proactively schedule your yearly inspections and address any concerns, you’re already farther ahead than your average homeowner who doesn’t pay attention to the roof over their head. If you need a trusted roofing contractor, Almeida Roofing Inc. is here to save the day! Our experts will inspect and document any findings to go over with you with options provided. For any questions or to schedule your per-summer roof inspection, call 602-743-3175.

Protect Your Roof From The Arizona Heat

Arizona is known for it’s dry desert and scorching hot summers. These high temperatures are harsh on us Arizonians and our homes roof. While we hide inside, our roof is taking the brunt of these unbearable temperatures. The extreme heat can lead to various issues for your roof, if not corrected right away.

What does the Arizona heat do to my roof?

Arizona’s extremely hot summers can cause destruction to our homes roof.

  1. Thermal Expansion & Contraction- The sudden temperature variations from morning to the evening cause roofing materials to expand during the day when it’s hot and contract during the night when it is cooler outside. Eventually, this can cause cracks, warping, and a reduced roof lifespan.
  2. UV Radiation- Your roofing materials are affected by the intense ultraviolet rays. The rays can breakdown roofing materials causing them to lose their durability and lessen lifespan.
  3. Blistering- Heat-related blistering is caused by trapped moisture getting hot causing the moisture to expand and form blisters. When these blisters are sitting under your roof materials, they can lead to leaks.

Roof Maintenance

If you want to protect your roof from the harsh Arizona heat, start implementing these proactive practices:

  1. Annual Roof Inspections
  2. Clear Debris
  3. Inspect and seal leaks
  4. Repair damaged areas

Why are annual roof inspections important?

Routine maintenance for your roof is important for longevity and avoiding costly, unexpected repairs. This is why:

  1. Preparation- Getting your roof inspected can aid in finding minor issues and repairing them before the damage becomes extensive and expensive.
  2. Home Value- A home that has a sturdy, maintained, and beautiful roof has a curb appeal buyer’s wouldn’t want to pass up.

Don’t let the Arizona heat damage your roof. Be sure to do your part in maintenance and calling Almeida Roofing INC. every year to schedule a roof inspection with one of our roofing experts. We look forward to hearing from you!

602-743-3175

Signs Roof Replacement is Needed

One of the most ignored responsibilities of a homeowner is roof maintenance and repair. They either intentionally or unintentionally ignore the structure that is over their head. Ignoring roof maintenance and needed roof repairs will ultimately lead you to roof replacement sooner than expected.

Water leaks and other damages turn serious in long term situations. Whether you intentionally or unintentionally ignored the issues, that doesn’t stop or slow down the need for roof replacement.

How will you know when to repair or replace the roof?

Below are 6 signs that indicate your roof needs to be repaired or replaced:

  1. Water Damage- The most common sign is water damage on the ceiling and/ or walls. Water stains and other signs of water damage are not to be ignored! Sure, it may not look so bad but behind those walls is a mess of costly repairs getting worse as time passes.
  2. Damaged Flashings- Flashings are intended to prevent water from entering your roof. These, typically aluminum made, flashings is a thin material for the purpose of keeping water from leaking into the roof. If the material of the flashing is deteriorated or damaged, the risk of water leaking into your roof is much higher. Water leaking into the roof can result in wood rote, mold growth, and overall structural impairment.
  3. Sagging- With good structure, your roof will follow a straight line with edges or ridges. If the roof sags or contains saddlebags in the ridge, its a good indication that your roof has structural damage and is at high risk of collapsing if not corrected in a timely matter. A sagging roof can be caused by excess exposure to moisture, incorrect roofing materials, and low-quality installation.
  4. Roof Age- The life expectancy is partly determined on the type of material used. If your roofing material is getting old and worn out, call for a roof inspection. The roof expert will assess your roof and provide options on repair and replacement, if needed.
  5. Moss & Fungi Growth- Moss might be okay outside in a shady part of your backyard but it’s not healthy to have moss growth on your roof. Signs of moss, mold, or fungi are good indicators that the roof has some trapped moisture and should be treated immediately to avoid further roof damage and even collapse.
  6. Loose & Damaged Tiles- Be sure to inspect your roof tiles every so often. You can get on the roof or schedule an inspection annually. If you see damaged tiles and notice some missing, it might be time to replace the roof depending on the severity.

For quality roofing services, Almeida Roofing Inc. is your local roofing company that will get the job done. No matter how big or small the job is, we guarantee our honesty and dedication. Your roof is our priority!

Call 602-743-3175 to schedule a roof inspection today!

Find an honest roofing contractor  

When a roofing contractor conducts the business with honesty, integrity, and respect, it reflects in the price, quality, warranty, and communication. Replacing your roof can be a stressful process and you want to make sure you have the right contractor that is going to help to make the process go as smoothly as possible.  

The right roofing contractor isn’t going to be the cheapest or the most expensive, should have a reasonable warranty, and will take customer communication seriously. It might be tempting to go with the lowest price, but the cheapest price is reflected in the quality of the materials and workmanship. A trustworthy and reliable roofing company will have some kind of warranty included with their installation to stand behind their work. With appropriate communication from your contractor, you can feel at ease knowing they aren’t going to scam you and that they will get the job done correctly. 

What are signs of an honest roofer? 

✅ They complete a thorough inspection before giving you a quote 

✅ The price quote is detailed and not a “rough estimate” 

✅ Licensed, Certified, and Experienced 

✅ They want to make the process smooth and affordable 

✅ Guarantee satisfaction 

✅ Positive reviews on various sites 

For a roofing company you can trust, Almeida Roofing Inc. is just a phone call away. We offer free, no-pressure roof replacement estimates. Our roofer will go over your options with you and continue to work with you throughout the process. You’re not alone in this! Let us bring you peace of mind and trust when you use Almeida Roofing Inc. for you roof replacement or roof repairs. To schedule a free estimate, call 602-743-3175.

Foam Roof- Maintenance  

In the 1960’s, foam roofs made their debut in the US. Spray foam roofing became extremely popular for commercial buildings where flat roofs are common. The smooth and joint-free roofing material is favorable for its added protection from water entering inside the home through holes. 

Residential and commercial buildings benefit from a foam roof regardless of the different types and shapes. However, to avoid issues with your foamed roof, it is imperative to maintain it. With proper maintenance, you can guarantee the longevity of your roof. 

Regular Foam Roof Cleaning 

Just like with any other roof, routine cleaning is important for longevity. This also applies to your foam roof.  

✅ Examine roof for damages annually, especially after a storm. 

✅ Remove debris and nests 

✅ Sweep the roof with a soft broom every month 

Foam Roof Repairs 

If you find any damage to your foamed roof, call Almeida Roofing Inc. We know how important it is to keep the roof over your family’s head sturdy and secure.  

For more information, visit our website www.almeidaroofing.com or give us a call at 602-743-3175

Shingle Roofs!

Types of Shingles

Yes, there are many different types of shingle roofs! Most commonly used shingles are the asphalt shingles. There are 3-tab asphalt shingles which are the cheapest option. These shingles can last anywhere between 15-20 years depending on weather conditions. There is a more expensive shingle called architectural asphalt shingles. These last on average 5-10 more years than 3-tab shingles.

3-Tab Shingle Benefits/Drawbacks

3-Tab Shingles are the cheapest options. This is definitely a great option for a low budget. These shingles can also come in a variety of color choices. This creates more creativity and variety for the roof. The drawbacks of 3-Tab Shingle Roofs is they need to be regularly maintained. When extreme winds, hail, and freeze temperatures hit, these can damage and wear the shingles. If you live somewhere where there is extreme weather and winds, it is best not to choose shingle roofs.

Solar Shingles

Solar shingles are used to provide clean energy. However, they are less effective than solar panels. The solar shingles are less noticeable than solar panels and give a more clean look. Most solar shingles typically cover a small portion of the roof. This means you would need to select another type of shingle for the remainder of the roof. Solar shingles can withstand higher winds and extreme weather. However, be careful, some homeowners don’t allow installation of solar shingles.

Hiring a Roof Inspector After a Storm 

When was the last time you had a roof inspection done? Most homeowners have either never had their roof inspected or have only had it done once or twice.  

Your roof goes through a lot defending you and your family against the outside elements. When there is hot sun, cold rain, intense winds, and hail, your roof keeps you safe through it all. It’s crucial to get a professional roof inspection done by a certified contractor after a storm. All of nature’s elements affect the condition of your roof. To ensure you’re protecting your family in a sheltered home, it’s imperative to also protect your roof. When you schedule a roof inspection, you’re taking the first step in protecting the roof. 

Roof inspections after a storm give you the opportunity to repair any damage that may have occurred. How can a storm damage my roof? 

  1. Hail damage can easily occur when it comes down in unbelievable sizes. From the size of a pea to the size of a soccer ball, when there is an awful hailstorm be sure to schedule a roof inspection. 
  1. Intense winds can do damage to roof shingles and even blow them off your roof. The strong winds also cause heavy tree limbs to fall onto the roof causing damage. 
  1. Heavy rainfall can cause the surfacing on the shingles to wear down and lose its durability. If you’re in an area that experiences monsoon storms and consistent rain, regular inspections are important to ensure the shingles are in good condition. 

When you choose to take care of the roof over your head, the benefits are many. A roof inspector will assess all damage that might be difficult to see, will bring all issues to your attention whether they’re big or small, know what they’re looking for, and save you money over time. Don’t wait until catastrophic damage occurs to repair your roof, schedule a roof inspection and proceed with repairs annually. This will save you money in the long run.  

Need a trusted roofing company in your contact list? Add Almeida Roofing Inc. 623-375-3175 

Top questions to ask a roofer prior to hiring them  

Do you need roof services but don’t currently have a trusted roofing contractor in your contact list? You could do a quick search on Google, “roof contractor near me” and go for the first one you see. However, if you end up hiring a shady contractor who stole all your money and left an unfinished roof, you must take some responsibility. The first step in getting your roof repaired or replaced is investing time in researching, asking the right questions, and ultimately finding the right contractor.  

After researching various roofing companies in your area, narrow it down to one contractor who seems to check most of the boxes just based on their online presence. How does their website look? Is it user-friendly and informative? Do they have any social media pages? Are they active in responding? What is their Google rating and what do the reviews say? This is a good place to start with everything being online nowadays.  

Schedule an appointment with the roof specialist to collect more information. You’ll want to know what skills they have, what their process is, and what they guarantee. Ask these questions before hiring a roofing contractor for repair or replacement. 

  1. Gather all the company’s information. Full company name, physical address, and point of contact. If there isn’t a physical address, my advice would be to try another company. A company with no physical address raises concerns. Using their full information during web searches will help you find potential red flags, if any.  
  1. Ask about their insurance. If this is a legit roofing company, they will have workers’ compensation and liability insurance to protect the homeowner if an accident happens.  
  1. Request to see their licenses. Depending on your location, certain licenses may be required before they can perform work on your roof. Also, ensure they have a valid business license that is current.  
  1. What is the warranty? The materials can be covered under the manufacturer warranty but ask the contractor if they include a labor warranty also. 
  1. How long have you been in business? This can help determine how much experience they have. If they’ve been in business for a while, they’ll have lots of customer references you can ask for. 
  1. Will my yard be protected? As a homeowner myself, I wouldn’t want a contractor doing a job for me and creating another job for me to fork out money on. Ask them what steps they’ll take to ensure your yard and outside of the home don’t get damaged. If an accident does occur, how do they plan to fix it? 

Almeida Roofing Inc. would love to answer any questions you have on or off this list. Not only do we enjoy educating people on their roofs, but we’d also appreciate the opportunity to be of service to your roof! Our roofing specialists are ready to take your call anytime at 623-743-3175

Can the sun damage my roof?  

It’s no surprise that Arizona is on the top 10 list of hottest states. The summer days are sunny, hot, and long! During those 117+ degree days, all you want to do is jump in your cool pool but unfortunately, it ends up being a giant bathtub full of warm water.  

Normally by this time, we get a little break from the monsoon rain, but it’s been lacking this year. Everybody and all things have been impacted by the increased temperatures and reduced amount of moisture. This includes your roof no matter what type of material it’s composed of. 

Your roof is about 50 degrees hotter than the outside temperature. That means when it’s 117 degrees outside, your roof is roughly sitting at 167 degrees! These brutally high temperatures cause the roofing material to break down creating a higher chance of damage. For example, a lot of Arizona homeowners have asphalt shingles that will eventually develop into loose and brittle shingles. When they become so weak, even a medium-sized tree branch falling and landing on your roof can mean extensive damage. I’m not saying it’s bound to happen to your roof, but the likelihood is there.  

What can you do to avoid it? To be fair, you can’t avoid what Mother Nature has to offer. However, what you can do is be proactive in getting your roof inspections done annually. With a roof inspection done by an expert every year, you can know the condition of the roofing materials and take care of any necessary repairs.  

Don’t have a trusted roofing expert in your contact list? Now you do! Give Almeida Roofing Inc. a call at 602-743-3175. 

Questions to Ask a Roofing Company Prior to Signing 

Are you searching for a roofing contractor to replace your roof? Have you thought about the questions you’re going to ask? You might be wondering now… “What is there to ask?” 🤔 When you’re on the hunt for a roofing contractor you don’t want just any joe shmoe off the street. Your goal should be to find the best and licensed roofing company that will fit your needs. 

Start asking these questions… 

1.) What is the full company name and address? 

2.) Do you carry general liability and workers compensation? 

3.) Do you have the suitable licensing to perform this work? 

4.) What is your labor warranty? 

5.) Do you use subcontractors? 

6.) When did you start your business? 

7.) What type of estimates do you provide? 

8.) What is your process to ensure the job is done timely and with quality? 

9.) How will you avoid causing damage to my house and lawn? 

10.) Who would I speak to for questions and concerns? 

Before you continue your search for a roofing contractor in the Phoenix area, see if Almeida Roofing Inc. is a good fit for you. We will answer all questions you have whether it’s to replace, repair, or inspect your roof. Our licensed contractors have the skill and knowledge to get any project done!

To speak to us directly, call 602-743-3175.