August and September bring the most volatile weather to Northern Arizona. For commercial property owners in Flagstaff, Prescott, and Sedona, this means your roof is facing its toughest test of the year: the destructive combination of triple-digit summer heat and sudden, severe monsoon storms.
At Noah’s Ark Roofing, we specialize in commercial roofing systems that endure these extremes. We know that proactive maintenance is the only way to avoid catastrophic leaks and costly downtime.
The Triple Threat: How AZ Weather Damages Your Commercial Roof
The cycle of intense heat followed by a cold, heavy monsoon rain places enormous stress on your roofing materials. Understanding the key failure points is the first step to protection.
1. The Ponding Water Problem
Flat and low-slope commercial roofs are highly susceptible to ponding water when drains or scuppers become clogged with dust, leaves, or monsoon debris. If water is still standing 48 hours after a rain, it begins to rapidly degrade the roof membrane, potentially leading to leaks and structural stress.
2. Seam Failure from Heat Cycle Stress
Arizona’s intense heat causes materials like TPO and EPDM to expand, while cold rain causes them to contract. This constant thermal cycling weakens the critical seams and flashing on your roof. Even a small crack allows water to penetrate the system, leading to interior damage.
3. Wind Uplift and Debris Damage
Monsoon winds can carry heavy debris and generate strong uplift forces. This often results in damaged edge metal, loose flashing, or impact holes—all direct entry points for water.
Your Essential Monsoon-Ready Commercial Roof Checklist
We recommend all commercial property managers complete these critical steps before and immediately after the heaviest monsoon activity:
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Clear Drains and Scuppers: Ensure all drainage points are completely free of debris to allow immediate water run-off.
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Inspect Flashing: Check all perimeter flashing, curbs, and penetrations (like HVAC units) for loose or peeling seals.
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Look for Blisters: Walk the roof and look for bubbles or blisters on the membrane. These indicate trapped moisture that is expanding under the sun and is a rupture waiting to happen.
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Document and Photograph: Maintain a record of the roof’s condition to track wear and potential warranty issues.
Protect Your Investment with Professional Commercial Roofing Inspection
Routine maintenance can only take you so far. The best protection against Northern Arizona’s challenging weather is a professional inspection by certified experts.
At Noah’s Ark Roofing, we provide detailed commercial roof assessments that identify issues before they become emergencies. We specialize in TPO, EPDM, and specialized coating systems designed to reflect heat and withstand wind.
Don’t wait until the next thunderstorm hits. Secure your business’s future by ensuring your commercial roof is built to last.
📞 Contact Noah’s Ark Roofing today at (928) 556-9191 to schedule your comprehensive commercial roof inspection!