Why monsoon storms are hard on Las Vegas roofs
Monsoon storms arrive fast, with strong wind, heavy rain in a short burst, and sometimes hail. Wind lifts and cracks tile and peels flashing. A sudden downpour finds every gap in old underlayment and backs up on flat roofs with clogged drains.
After months of heat, underlayment is at its most brittle. That's why a roof that stayed dry all year can leak in the first big storm.
What to check before July
- Cracked, slipped or missing tiles, especially on ridges, hips and rakes
- Flashing at walls, chimneys, skylights and vent pipes
- Scuppers, drains and gutters: clear of debris and draining freely
- Flat roofs and patio covers: ponding, blisters or worn coating
- Ceiling stains or attic water marks from last season
- Tile roofs over 15 years old: ask for an underlayment check
Fixes worth making before the season
Replace broken tile, reseal or replace failed flashing, clear and test drains, and recoat flat roofs that are worn. If the underlayment under a 20-year-old tile roof is brittle, a re-felt before July is far cheaper than repairing water damage after.
If a storm damages your roof
- Move valuables away from the leak and catch the water
- Photograph the damage from the ground; don't climb on a wet roof
- Call a licensed local roofer for a same-day tarp
- Call your insurer to open a claim
- Be careful with out-of-state crews who knock on doors after storms; check the license at nvcontractorsboard.com
Quick answers
When is monsoon season in Las Vegas?
Roughly July through September. Storms bring sudden wind, heavy rain and occasional hail, which is when most Las Vegas storm roof damage happens.
When should I have my roof inspected in Las Vegas?
Once a year, ideally in spring before monsoon season starts in July, and again after any major storm.