6 Critical Tips to Prepare Your Roof for the Rainy Season

The Bay Area is no stranger to severe storms and storm damage. Data shows that San Rafael, California gets 40.6 inches of rain, on average, per year, and very often, the majority of the rain comes in great torrents over a short period. Because of this, San Rafael industry expert Apollo Roofing Company advises homeowners to protect their roofs, homes, and property.

How Do You Prepare a Roof For the Rainy Season?

The Bay Area, including Marin and Contra Costa Counties, has seen roofs so damaged by storms that it has temporarily displaced families from their homes. The roofing company recommends taking these six preventative steps to prepare a roof for the rainy season.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Because roofing systems endure the elements daily, it is crucial to ensure that it is in the best condition possible to endure rainy weather. To do this, it is always best to call a professional roofing company. Roof damage can be difficult to spot unless you understand roofing systems. 

Because they have extensive experience, they can spot and rectify problems that are likely not apparent to the untrained eye, which helps extend the roof’s life and prevents costly damages.

Fix or Replace Damaged or Missing Shingles

Shingles are the first line of defense against rain, so it is critical to ensure all of the shingles are in good shape and in place to help prevent potential leaks. Water will always move downward and find a way into the structure if openings and weak points exist. Even a few missing or damaged shingles can lead to damaging leaks and compromise the rest of the roofing structure.

Clean the Gutters

Remove dirt, dust, leaves, twigs, and trash from the gutter system. Since heavy rains put more stress on the gutter system, any dirt or debris can lead to an obstruction that could cause water to back up onto the roofing system, seriously damaging the materials. Additionally, if the gutters become too heavy, they can come loose and cause additional damage to the roof and home structure.

Inspect the Flashing

Flashing is the flexible flat metal material that strategically directs water away from roofing edges and protrusions. Without adequately placed flashing, water would easily make its way down vents, sunroofs, chimneys, and other roofing elements. Because the flashing material is extremely flexible, outside forces such as animal, wind, or human activity can cause it to bend out of shape or move out of place, which could lead to leaks. A roofing company can help ensure the flashing is in good condition and appropriately placed.

Trim All Nearby Trees

Trees are a common source of significant roof damage during the rainy season. Heavy rains can cause grounds to become soft and nearby trees to fall against the roof structure. Winds, too, can cause branches to beat against the roofing structure, puncturing the shingles, underlayment, and deck. To protect the roof, trim the branches that could destroy the roof and displace or damage shingles.

Get a Reroof

If the roof is in poor condition, talk to a licensed roofing company in San Rafael about getting it replaced as soon as possible. A reroof may seem like a big project, but planning a reroof is far better than getting it done due to a roofing emergency.

Roof Repair in San Rafael

Rain is a powerful force on the roofing system. It is important to take proactive steps and get the advice of a professional roofing company to protect the system. Apollo Roofing Company is a full-service residential and commercial roofing company serving San Rafael and the surrounding areas. As a trusted local service provider, the company is known for its focus on high-quality products and services and for upholding industry best practices.