Tucson’s beautiful desert climate offers more than 300 days of sunshine each year—but with the perks of sunshine come unique challenges for your home’s roof. From intense UV exposure to powerful monsoon storms, the elements take a toll on roofing materials in Southern Arizona. As a homeowner in Tucson, knowing what issues to look for—and spotting them early—can save you thousands in costly repairs down the road.
At Fletcher Roofing, we’ve spent years helping Tucson homeowners protect their properties from the desert’s harsh conditions. Below, we break down the most common roofing problems we see in the area and how to identify them before they escalate.
The sun in Tucson is relentless. UV rays and extreme heat can weaken roofing materials over time, especially asphalt shingles, tile underlayment, and flat roof membranes.
Signs to watch for:
This type of damage can sneak up on homeowners who rarely check their roof. Even if the top layer looks fine from the ground, the material underneath may be deteriorating from years of sun exposure.
Roof flashing is the thin metal used around roof edges, vents, chimneys, and skylights to keep water out. In Tucson’s fluctuating temperatures—especially when the heat quickly gives way to sudden monsoon rains—flashing can warp, crack, or pull away from the surface.
Warning signs:
If your home is older or hasn’t been inspected in a while, degraded flashing can be one of the first sources of leaks.
Monsoons in Tucson can bring sudden, powerful winds that lift or tear off roofing materials. Flying debris can also crack tiles or damage protective layers, leaving your roof exposed to moisture.
What to look for:
Even if damage isn’t visible from the ground, it’s smart to schedule a post-storm inspection to catch small issues before they lead to bigger problems.
Flat and low-slope roofs are common in Tucson homes and commercial buildings, but they can create drainage challenges. Without proper slope or clean drains, water can pool on the surface and lead to leaks or membrane breakdown.
Common indicators:
Ponding water is more than an annoyance—it can weaken the roof structure over time and increase the risk of sudden leaks during a heavy downpour.
Tile roofs are a popular and durable choice in Tucson, but many homeowners don’t realize the tiles themselves aren’t waterproof. The real protection comes from the underlayment, which can degrade after 15–20 years, especially under the Arizona sun.
Symptoms of underlayment issues:
If your tile roof is over a decade old and hasn’t been inspected, it’s wise to have the underlayment checked by a professional.
Most roofing problems can be prevented or minimized with timely inspections and basic maintenance. At Fletcher Roofing, we recommend having your roof inspected at least once a year—and especially after heavy monsoon activity.
Early detection is key. What starts as a minor crack or loose shingle can quickly lead to interior water damage, mold growth, or even structural issues.
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above—or simply want peace of mind—schedule a free roof inspection with Fletcher Roofing. We’re proud to serve Tucson homeowners with honest assessments, expert repairs, and preventative care tailored to our desert environment.
Don’t wait for small issues to become expensive problems. Let our experienced team help you stay one step ahead.Contact Fletcher Roofing today to protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind.
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