The hot summer months of Tucson, Arizona brings powerful thunderstorms that drop several inches of rain in just a few hours. As a homeowner, the last thing you want is the rain leaking into your house. Wood and water don’t mix, and you could develop mold problems or notice warped walls and doors because of leaks. Follow these steps for a leak-free roof this summer.

Conduct a Visual Inspection

Look at the state of your roof and check for any visible damage or wear. You don’t need to be a roofing expert to find cracks, gaps and broken shingles. You can also inspect the inside of your home for issues as well. If you see any problems, you need to schedule a roof inspection.

Clean Your Gutters

Regularly clean out your gutters to remove dead leaves, animal droppings and other detritus that funnel down your house. Clogged gutters push water against your roof, which can lead to leaks and cracks in the facade. Even if you think your gutters are clear, cleaning them seasonally is a good habit.

Eliminate Pests and Nesting Birds

Different nooks and crannies in your roof can become homes for birds, rats and pests. Rats can burrow in your home and tear up your insulation, while the acidic nature of bird waste can eat away at your shingles. You can still create a bird-friendly yard in your home but focus on birdhouses and feeders instead.

Cut Back Hanging Tree Limbs

While hanging tree limbs provide much-needed shade in the summer, they can also damage your roof. They create a walkway for pests to reach your house while dropping leaves and twigs into your gutters. You can keep your trees but should make sure none of the branches hang over your home.

If you’re worried about leaks causing water to seep into your house, contact the professionals who can seal your cracks. Make an appointment today with Crest Contracting Roofing to get your roof checked.