Why a Leaky Roof Is a Dangerous Roof

Discovering a leaky roof in your home can be stressful, especially if you have never experienced a leaking roof or any issues with your roof in the past. Understanding how to identify potential leaks while knowing why they can be dangerous if left unattended is essential when you want to take care of any issue that arises in your home as quickly as possible. When you know what to expect if your roof begins to leak, you can take the appropriate steps and actions to rectify the situation immediately.

Mold and Mildew Growth

Unfortunately, one of the biggest risks of allowing a roof to continue to leak (even if the leak is small), is the growth of mildew and in some cases, even mold. Sitting and standing water has the potential to trigger the growth of mold, mildew, and various bacteria, depending on surrounding conditions, outside temperature, and climate. Allowing mold and mildew to spread in the roof or even in your attic space can lead to adverse health effects, especially if the mold spores begin to spread through the vents and ductwork in the home.

When mold and mildew are ignored for any duration of time, they have the potential to trigger an array of side effects and adverse responses in the body. From traditional allergies and allergic reactions to respiratory issues and even serious respiratory infections, there are many risks involved with allowing mold and mildew to thrive and grow anywhere in or around the home. Mold and mildew are also far more likely to negatively impact those who are ill or individuals who have weakened and/or compromised immune systems.

Insulation Damage

Another issue that comes standard with a leaky roof is the damage that can be done to your interior insulation. Roofing insulation is not cheap, which is why it is so important to protect and preserve it as best as possible from moisture and other leaks. If the insulation used in your attic becomes saturated with rainwater from outside, it will instantly become dramatically less effective. When your roofing insulation is damaged and soaked with water, you will also likely notice an uptick in your energy and electric bills each month, as the insulation is no longer working properly or providing you with the insulation you need, especially during the cold winter months of the year.

Electrical Risks

When there is a major leak in the roof or anywhere in the home, it is important to reman cognizant and aware of the potential electrical hazards or risks you may be surrounded by at the time. When a leaky roof causes water to enter the home and the interior of your walls, there is an added risk of the water coming in contact with electrical wiring and even outlets you use each day in the home. If you notice major spots of water on your walls or on any of the ceilings in your home, it is likely time to call on professional roofers to help address the severity of the leak while determining what solution is best for your needs.

If you want to avoid electrical risks and hazards in the home after discovering a leaky roof, you will want to contact local professional roofers as quickly as possible. Shutting off the power in the home is also recommended if it is possible to do so without putting yourself in harm’s way.

Permanent Structural Damage

The biggest risk of any type of leak in the roof or even in its insulation is long-term or permanent structural damage. Unfortunately, when a roof leak is left unattended to, there is a drastic risk structural damage that is likely to occur over time. As water seeps into your home’s rafter’s, beams, joists, and even various structural components, the materials will weaken over time. Even metal pieces of equipment that are waterlogged for a period of time are likely to rust, becoming ineffective in holding your roof and your home’s structure in place. When you allow your roof to leak continuously without a thorough professional inspection or repair, you will also increase the costs of repairing your roof once the time does come to take action.

Knowing the reasons why a leaky roof is dangerous is imperative whether you’re a long-term homeowner or you have just moved into your home recently. Paying attention to the interior and exterior of your roof year-round will prevent major structural or permanent damage with proper monitoring and routine inspections or maintenance services. With an understanding of the potential risks, you are taking on as a homeowner if you ignore a leaky roof, you can determine when the time is right to turn the pros. If your home has a leaky roof and you are unsure of how to tackle the issue head-on, getting in touch with professionals can streamline the process while protecting your home.

The Importance of Roof Re-Coating Every Five Years

When did you last make roof re-coating part of your regular roofing checklist? It is one of those roof maintenance tasks most homeowners can easily forget until they get roof leaks. If your roof has started displaying signs of age, leaks, wear and tear, or energy loss, you took too long to restore the coating. At Renewal Roofing, Remodeling & Air, we are a professional roofing company in the Tucson, Arizona, community. Below, our experts have expounded on why it is essential to re-coat your roof every five years.

Protection for Your Home

We are a local Tucson company that knows well the challenges the area’s weather presents to roofs. Rain, snow, wind, and UV rays can all cause damage to your roofing materials over time. By re-coating your roof every five years, you protect the structural integrity of your home, preventing extensive damage to other parts of the house.

Low Cost

Adequate roof maintenance is the key to long life and low costs. Addressing minor roofing issues on time ensures you avoid the financial burden of major repairs or a complete roof replacement at a later stage. That is why our team recommends re-coating them every five years. This practice is critical, especially in hot areas like Tucson, where the harsh sun scorches away the paint that keeps your roof from drying out.

Energy Efficiency

We are experts in roof maintenance and have completed hundreds of roofs throughout town. We have learned that homeowners who repair and re-coat their roofs every five years save on energy costs. Why? Damaged roofs result in heat or cool air escaping, adding to energy consumption as your HVAC system works harder to maintain the indoor environment’s comfort.

Preserving Your Home’s Value

Every house and other home structure deserves the very best. Re-coating your roof every five years enhances the appeal of your home, making it more attractive, especially if your goal is to sell. In addition, your roofing system contributes to the longevity of your building, ensuring comfort and safety.

Safety for Your Family

Our company receives desperate calls from homeowners who have not re-coated their homes every five years. Failure to re-coat the roof weakens the roofing materials. Consequently, weak roofing materials become more dangerous during harsh weather conditions, such as extreme winds. You can protect your loved ones by simply re-coating and repairing your roof on time.

If you have not re-coated your roof in the last five years, it is time. You can partner with us at Renewal Roofing, Remodeling & Air Company for roofing projects in Tucson, Arizona. We offer professional roofing services, safeguarding your home, preserving its value, and ensuring the safety and welfare of your loved ones.

Harm After a Storm: The Key Areas on a Roof That Can Sound the Alarm

There are many regions in the United States, and in every region, there are different severe weather threats. Some threats are powerful, and others are not. No matter if your home is in a region that’s cold or hot, this roofing guide will help you protect your roof from the threats of severe weather with everything that you’ve got.

The Most Important Places to Check on Your Roof Following a Storm

Although a roof has many components, you do not have to check them all after a storm. Here are the key locations that you should focus on during a basic roof inspection.

The Gutters

The best way to keep your gutters in peak shape is by clearing out all debris following every storm. There are two ways to tackle this job. If you want to stick to the basics, just climb up to your gutters with a bucket, grab all of the debris, and place all of the waste into the bucket. If you want to complete this job faster, get rid of the bucket, and place a tarp on the ground underneath your gutters. While the tarp is underneath you, throw the debris on the ground and let the tarp catch it.

The Shingles

There are a few scenarios where it’s important to check your shingles. You should definitely search your property for missing shingles following every severe rainstorm, tropical storm, or hurricane, and you should absolutely check your roof’s structural integrity following a hailstorm.

Make Every Inspection Thorough

In some cases, checking your gutters and shingles after a storm will be not enough. It will be best to cover all of the bases. To so do, you’ll have to inspect the gutter, the shingles, and other key components, such as the ridge caps, flashing, and vents. However, if you do not have the courage or the willpower to accomplish this, just contact a roofer, and schedule a roof inspection.

The Threats

If you want to be on guard throughout the year, there are five weather threats that you must be aware of. Here’s everything that you’ll need to know about these threats and how they can impact a roofing system.

Wind – Can Damage Shingles and Major Roof Features

Strong wind can pack a mean one-two punch. Not only can it lift the shingles directly off a roof, but it can also make the foundation more vulnerable to water damage.

When it comes wind damage intensity, it varies from storm to storm. The weakest winds are produced by regular rainstorms; they max out at around 58 mph.

Producing winds that can reach up a 73 mpg, a tropical storm is an even bigger threat. These winds can tear the shingles and flashing off a roof.

Hurricane winds are the mightiest winds. If you don’t know the numbers, here are some basic stats:

A category one hurricane can produce winds that range between 74 to 95 mpg
A category two hurricane can produce winds that range between 96 to 110 mpg
A category three hurricane can clock in between 111 to 129 mpg
A category four hurricane can generate gusts that span from 130 to 156 mpg
A category five hurricane’s winds can top out at mph 157 mph of higher

Hail – A Big Risk for Shingles and a Roof’s Foundation

On each individual shingle, there are many small speckles. These speckles are called granules. The granules are not permanently glued on a shingle. If many hailstones fall in a roof at a high velocity, some of the granules on a roof will begin to chip away.

Rain – A Possible Cause of Roof Rot

Alone, rain is not a threat for a roof. However, when wind is part of the equation, it creates a dangerous combination for a few reasons. For starters, if the wind exposes the decking, the decking will soak up moisture, and this makes a roof vulnerable. Second, a vulnerable roof will not be able to support itself in the long run. The second threat is more dangerous; it’s the potential for mold growth. If a roof starts to leak and creates moisture, mold will begin to grow in all of the compromised areas; this includes any soggy insulation that’s found in a home’s ceilings and walls.

Snow – A Source of Ice Dams and Wood Rot

If you remove the snow off your roof immediately following every snowstorm, your roof will never be at risk. However, if you fail to shovel all of the snow off your roof on a cold day, ice dams will form on the edge of it. Ice dams are clusters of ice that create ice icicles. They will continue to hang there until they lose their grip once they begin to melt. Ice icicles from ice dams are very sharp, so they could injure someone if they suddenly fall.

What Is the Average Timeline for a Basic Roof Replacement?

Investing in a brand-new roof can be one of the best decisions you make as a homeowner, especially if you want to increase the ROI of your home. If you want to increase your roof’s energy efficiency while extending the lifespan of your roof and protecting your home’s interior, you can do so by searching for the right roof replacement that is exactly what your home needs. Once you have decided to move forward with your roof replacement, you will need to know what to expect in terms of timeline to better prepare for the project.

Planning Process

The planning process of replacing an entire roof will typically take anywhere between 1 and 2 weeks in total. While you are thinking of replacing your home’s roof, you will need to find the right contractor or roofing company that is suitable for your needs and budget. You will then need to schedule an initial consultation for a quote or estimate on the type of roof replacement you are interested in at the time. This process will require you to get to know more about the process of local roofing companies you are interested in working with and hiring.

While you are working with a new contractor or company, you will then compare various roofing materials and solutions that are appealing to you, affordable for you, and suitable for your home and the climate or region you are in. Keep in mind that depending on the type of roofing materials you select, you may need to place a custom order before the roof replacement job can take place. Learn which materials are readily available and which materials need to be special ordered before settling on a decision, especially if you are pressed for time or if you have a particular deadline you would like to meet set and in mind.

Roof Removal

During the first day of a roof replacement, your old roof will be removed by professionals. The contractors you have hired will assess the current roof to determine the best course of action to take to remove the roof as quickly and smoothly as possible. Most residential roofs will require a full day to remove, although some larger roofs may need more than one day to complete a thorough removal.

Roof Installation

Installing a new roof that is made of traditional shingles or even tiles will typically require anywhere between 2 and 3 days in total. Sometimes, a roof installation will require a full week, but this is more common with large mansions and complex roof patterns, styles, or designs. The process of installing a brand-new roof onto a residential home will require the underlayment and also the actual installation of new materials that have been selected for the roof base itself. Flashing installation around any existing vents, valleys, or chimneys on the roof will also be taken care of during this process, which should not require additional days to complete.

Damages and Restoration Services

If your home has an older roof that has experienced extensive damage, leaks, or wear and tear, you may require additional time to remedy these issues before the new roof can be installed. Debris and any old, decaying, or rotting roof materials will need to be removed with the use of professional commercial-grade equipment to avoid causing additional damage to your home and its structural integrity.

Cleanup

The cleanup process after a new roof has been installed onto a home will typically only take one full day. In many instances, this process can be completed in less than a day, unless the roofing crew who is on the job has a complex roof to work with or an extensive amount of debris to remove.

Factors to Keep in Mind

Whenever you are thinking of installing a new roof onto your home, you will want to take the following considerations and factors into mind, as they can impact the estimated timeline of your new roof:

Size: The size of your roof may impact how many days are necessary to install a replacement.
Material: Depending on the type of materials you opt to use on your new roof, the duration of the replacement is likely to vary.
Weather: Inclement weather can cause delays and setbacks, which is why timing is crucial when you want to invest in a new roof.

As a homeowner, knowing what to expect when it comes to roof replacement timelines and estimated completion times is crucial for planning purposes. Regardless of the size of home you’re living in and the type of roof you are interested in investing in, you will need to know how to plan for your next roofing job ahead of time for the best outcome possible. When you are aware of what to expect in terms of planning, preparing, and replacing your roof in terms of time, you can then make adjustments and plans with your own schedule accordingly.

Monsoon Season and Your Roof in Arizona

Starting June 1st, monsoon season in Tucson begins. If you are a new resident here, you probably didn’t know that the desert comes alive for four months from June to September as a result of heavy rains and huge storms. Your new house in Arizona may experience quite the hit to its roof during this time of year. Be prepared.

After Every Storm, Check Your Roof

Monsoons not only hit with heavy rain, but also intense winds. They are the desert version of a tropical storm. Lightning is highly possible, fires can happen, and even hail has dropped on homes during this time of year. After every storm, climb a ladder and look at your roof. Make sure there does not seem to be anything dented, lost, swinging, or loose.

If Something’s Awry, Call a Roofing Contractor

If you do see something awry after a monsoon storm, contact a roofing contractor right away. It should be repaired before the next big storm arrives. Otherwise, your roof could end up leaking a ton of rain and creating a lot of expensive water damage. If you can’t get up to your roof and look around, call a contractor to take a look for you. It’s also safer to have a contractor take a look for you.

If You Can, Check Your Roof Before Monsoon Season Begins

It’s also a good idea to be proactive and have your roof checked before monsoon season begins. Then you can see if there is any pre-existing damage to your roof prior to your first monsoon experience living in Arizona. Making repairs before the rains and winds come will help make your roof stronger and hold up better during the storms. Better yet, you should have gotten a roof inspection prior to buying a house in Arizona, but if you did not, it isn’t too late now.

The Cost of Quality A/C

The Cost of Quality A/C: How Your Roof Plays a Crucial Role

Here’s a fact that may surprise you: your roof has a significant impact on how much you spend on air conditioning in Tucson. You might think your A/C unit is the sole determining factor in energy efficiency, but the health and design of your roof make a world of difference.

At Renewal Roofing, we understand the interconnectedness of your home’s systems. That’s why we want to break down the hidden costs of a poorly functioning roof when it comes to A/C usage – and how investing in a high-quality roof can actually save you money in the long run.

The Enemy: Heat Transfer

Your roof acts as your home’s first line of defense against the relentless sun in Tucson. On a scorching summer day, a dark, poorly insulated roof can absorb a massive amount of solar radiation, transferring that heat down into your attic and the rest of your living space. It forces your air conditioner to work overtime, battling a constant influx of unwanted heat.

Here’s where this gets costly:

Higher Energy Bills: The harder your A/C works, the more you’ll see reflected on your monthly utility costs. An inefficient roof could be the reason those summer bills spike uncontrollably.
Shorter Equipment Lifespan: Overworking your A/C causes wear and tear, leading to more frequent breakdowns and a shorter lifespan for the unit itself. That means costly repairs and premature replacements.
Less Comfort: Even a powerful A/C can struggle to keep your Tucson home consistently comfortable if heat from your roof constantly seeps back in.

The Benefits of a Quality Roof Designed for Efficiency

A well-constructed, energy-efficient roof tackles this problem head-on:

Reflective Materials: Light-colored or specially coated roofing materials deflect much of the sun’s rays, reducing the initial heat buildup in the first place.
Proper Ventilation: A well-ventilated attic allows superheated air to escape, keeping this trapped heat from radiating into your living spaces.
Quality Insulation: Robust attic insulation provides another barrier, slowing down the transfer of heat even further.

The cumulative effect is dramatic. A “cool roof” designed for efficiency can ease the burden on your A/C, leading to:

Noticeable Savings: Lower your energy usage in peak seasons, putting extra money back in your pocket.
Prolonged A/C Life: Less strain means your equipment lasts longer, delaying costly replacements.
Consistent Comfort: Your home feels consistently cool without the A/C constantly battling the heat.

Beyond Energy: The True Cost of a Cheap Roof

A poorly constructed or aging roof doesn’t just impact your A/C bills. Consider these less obvious expenses:

Water Damage: Leaks, no matter how minor, damage insulation and can lead to mold growth, all of which make your home harder to cool.
Pest Infestations: Cracks or gaps in your roof invite pests, whose nesting materials can further compromise your insulation.
Structural Weakness: Extreme heat warps materials and puts stress on the overall structure of your roof, leading to expensive repairs.

The Renewal Roofing Difference

At Renewal Roofing, we’re not just about replacing shingles. We believe in holistic solutions. Here’s how we help you achieve a roof that lowers costs and improves your overall home:

Expert Analysis: We’ll analyze your attic ventilation and insulation, identifying areas for improvement alongside necessary roof repairs or replacements.
Energy-Efficiency Options: We offer various roofing materials and coatings to boost your roof’s reflectivity and keep heat at bay.
Quality Workmanship: Flawless installation ensures your roof’s protective elements function optimally, saving energy and preventing further damage.

A Proactive Investment, Not Just an Expense

Choosing a premium quality roof with energy efficiency in mind can feel like a significant upfront investment. But in reality, it’s a decision that pays for itself many times over. You save on energy bills, increase home comfort and protect the entire structure.

Contact Renewal Roofing: Your Partners in Long-Term Savings

Let us calculate the potential savings a new roof could provide. We’ll customize the perfect solution for your home’s unique needs. It’s about more than just a new roof; it’s about smarter homeownership for years to come.

3 Ways to Protect Your Roof in Tucson

How to Protect Your Roof in Tucson: Expert Tips for a Long-Lasting Investment

As Tucson homeowners, we love our sunshine and stunning desert landscapes. But that same environment poses unique challenges when it comes to caring for our roofs. Intense heat, monsoon downpours, and the occasional hail storm can all take a toll on even the best roofing materials. That’s why proactive roof maintenance and protection are essential.

In this guide, we’ll share the key threats to your Tucson roof and the essential steps you can take to ensure it lasts for decades to come.

Understanding the Threats: Tucson’s Unique Climate

Intense Sun and Heat: The relentless Tucson sun delivers an average of 350 sunny days per year. This constant UV exposure can cause materials to fade, crack, and deteriorate prematurely. Heat buildup in your attic space also puts a strain on your HVAC system, increasing energy costs.
Monsoon Season: Sudden downpours and strong winds can test your roof’s water resistance. Poor drainage or any minor leaks can lead to major damage if not addressed quickly.
Debris: From desert dust to fallen branches from Palo Verde trees, debris buildup clogs gutters and can create areas where moisture pools, causing wear and tear.
Pests: Birds, rodents, and insects can find their way into small gaps under tiles or shingles, damaging your roof’s structure.

Protect Your Investment: Key Maintenance Steps

Regular Inspections: The Best Defense
Schedule professional roof inspections at least twice a year – once in the spring (after winter weather), and again in the fall (to prepare for the monsoon season). Our trained experts can spot small issues before they become expensive repairs. It’s also a good idea to inspect your roof yourself after any major storms but be careful up there!
Keep It Clean Remove leaves, branches, and other debris regularly, especially before the monsoon season. Clogged gutters cause water to backup, potentially getting under your roofing materials or damaging your foundation.
Careful Tree Trimming While we love our trees, overhanging branches can damage your roof in a storm. They can also drop leaves and sap, contributing to debris buildup. Strategic trimming protects your roof and your landscaping.
Prioritize Attic Ventilation Good airflow in your attic helps combat heat buildup, improving energy efficiency and reducing stress on your roof. Check that your vents are clear and consider adding insulation if needed.
Address Repairs Promptly Don’t ignore cracked tiles, missing shingles, or signs of leaks. Tucson’s weather changes rapidly, and small problems can quickly escalate. Renewal Roofing can provide timely repairs and prevent major headaches (and expenses!) down the road.

Additional Tips for Specific Roof Types

Tile Roofs: Tile is very durable, but individual tiles can crack. During roof inspections, our experts look for signs of chipping, loose sections, or leaks in your underlayment.
Foam Roofs: Foam holds up well but requires periodic re-coating to maintain its protective layer. We will check for blistering, uneven coating, or signs of peeling.
Flat Roofs: These require extra attention to drainage. We are always on the look out for ponding water, as flat roofs are more susceptible to leaks than sloped roofs.

A Word on Roof Coatings

Roof coatings can offer some additional protection against the sun and leaks, but they’re not a magic solution. It’s essential to have a structurally sound roof to begin with or the coating won’t do its job long term. Contact us to discuss whether a coating is right for your situation.

Your Roof: A Vital Part of Your Tucson Home By understanding the specific challenges our climate poses, prioritizing proactive maintenance, and choosing the right roofing partner, you can keep your roof strong, beautiful, and protective for years to come.

Renewal Roofing is here to help! Contact us today for a free roof assessment or to discuss the best ways to protect your investment.

Common Roofing Issues & Problems

Common Roofing Issues and Problems: Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs

As homeowners in Tucson, we often take our roofs for granted until something goes wrong. A tiny leak might seem insignificant, but small roofing issues have the potential to turn into major, costly headaches if not addressed early. That’s why staying vigilant and taking notice of any changes is crucial for protecting your home and your investment.

Renewal Roofing wants you to be informed. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common roofing problems, what to look for, and why timely action is key.

Types of Roof Damage: What to Watch For

Physical Damage

Missing or Cracked Shingles/Tiles: High winds, hail, or fallen branches can displace or damage individual roofing components.
Dents or Holes: Large impacts can leave your roof vulnerable to leaks.
Buckling or Warping: This indicates potential issues in the layers underneath, often due to the Tucson heat and moisture.

Signs of Water Intrusion

Interior Leaks: Check your ceilings and attic, especially after heavy rain, for stains, dripping, or mold.
Musty Odors: A lingering damp smell could point to hidden moisture build-up.
Dark Streaks on Roofing: This could be algae or moss growth, often found in shaded areas where moisture lingers.

Aging and Deterioration

Faded or Curling Shingles: Years of brutal Tucson sun exposure cause materials to dry out and lose their protective qualities.
Granules in Gutters: Asphalt shingles naturally shed granules as they age, but excessive amounts signal they’re nearing the end of their lifespan.
Sagging Roofline: This is a serious concern indicating potential structural weakness.

Problems with Flashing

Flashing Gaps: Flashing seals vulnerable areas where your roof meets vents, chimneys etc. Lifted or damaged flashing allows water in.
Rust or Corrosion: Metal flashing can deteriorate over time, especially if exposed to constant moisture.

Critter Infestation

Scratching Sounds in the Attic: Animals may try to make your roof their home.
Chew Marks or Entry Holes: Look for damage around roof edges, vents, or gaps in tiles.
Nesting Materials: Droppings, chewed debris, or built-up nesting materials signal critter activity.

Why Ignoring These Problems is a Bad Idea

Escalating Damage: A small leak rarely fixes itself. Water finds its way, causing damage to insulation, framing, and even your home’s interior.
Mold Growth: Hidden moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, affecting your health and air quality.
Compromised Structural Integrity: If issues spread to the underlying roof deck or structure, repairs become extremely expensive.
Decreased Energy Efficiency: Damaged insulation and unwanted heat transfer mean your HVAC works harder, costing you more.
Voided Warranty: Many roofing warranties require regular inspections and maintenance. Neglect could compromise your coverage.

The Importance of Regular Inspections

The best defense is a thorough roof inspection at least twice a year – after any severe weather, and in preparation for seasonal changes. A trained professional can spot these issues early and recommend the appropriate course of action, whether it’s minor repairs or a more comprehensive solution.

The Renewal Roofing Approach

At Renewal Roofing, we believe in finding the root of the problem, not just putting a bandaid on the symptoms. Here’s what sets us apart:

In-Depth Assessments: We carefully examine your roof’s exterior, attic, ventilation, and insulation.
Honest Recommendations: Our goal is to provide the best solution for your needs, whether it’s targeted repairs, upgrades, or a full replacement.
Transparent Pricing: You’ll know the full scope of work and costs upfront, no surprises.
Quality Workmanship: Flawless roof installations are our standard, giving you long-term peace of mind.

Protect Your Home, Protect Your Investment

A roof is more than just shingles. It’s a crucial shield protecting everything within your walls. Don’t let small problems turn into costly disasters.

Contact Renewal Roofing today for a free roof evaluation. Let us help you stay ahead of the curve and safeguard your home for years to come!

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