Monsoon winds can show up fast in Glendale, turning a calm afternoon into blowing dust and heavy rain in minutes. If you want to protect your roof, yard, and home value, a little prep goes a long way. In this guide, you’ll get a simple, local checklist that fits our season and weather patterns, plus links to trusted resources. Let’s dive in.
Glendale monsoon basics
Monsoon season in our region typically runs from June 15 to September 30, with the busiest stretch in July and August. You can confirm dates and safety tips on the City of Phoenix’s regional page for the monsoon season window.
Glendale’s main risks are strong winds, short bursts of heavy rain that can cause localized flooding, and occasional hail. Review local alerts and preparedness tips on Glendale Emergency Management and the National Weather Service monsoon hazards page.
Pre‑monsoon roof prep
Inspect from the ground and attic
- Walk your property and look for missing, cracked, or lifted shingles or tiles. Watch for loose ridge caps and any exposed underlayment or fasteners. Use photos to document what you see. For a visual guide, check a reputable roof storm damage checklist.
- From inside, check the attic for daylight through the roof, water stains, damp insulation, or musty odors. These can point to older leaks that get worse in heavy rain.
- Look closely at flashings around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Sealants should be intact and flashing seated tight. A simple roof inspection checklist can help you stay organized.
Clean gutters and move water away
- Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, gravel, and sediment so water can flow freely. Add splash blocks or extensions so discharge flows several feet away from the foundation.
- If a storm is forecast, walk your drainage paths. Keep grates and inlets clear, and consider temporary barriers like sandbags if low doors or vents are at risk. The NFIP’s flood preparedness checklist outlines basic steps homeowners can take.
Check roof equipment and attachments
- Make sure roof‑mounted HVAC curbs, boots, and flashing are sealed and fastened. Confirm satellite dishes and similar attachments are secured to manufacturer specs.
- If anything looks loose or damaged, schedule a licensed roofing contractor before peak season.
Red flags to call a pro
- Multiple missing or cracked tiles or shingles, or visible underlayment.
- Sagging or detached gutters, or frequent overflow during normal rain.
- Attic signs of moisture, soft decking, or mold.
- Repeated ponding near the foundation after typical rain.
- After a storm, be cautious of door‑to‑door repair pitches. Review the NRCA advice on hiring roofers after severe weather before you sign anything.
Yard and drainage checklist
Trim trees and large plants
- Prune dead, overhanging, or weakened limbs that could strike your roof, vehicles, or power lines in high winds. Consider a licensed, insured arborist for large trees.
- Follow local guidance and alerts from Glendale Emergency Management during active weather.
Secure loose items
- Store or tie down patio furniture, umbrellas, grills, plant pots, and pool toys before storms. Unsecured items can become wind‑blown projectiles.
Improve grading and clear flow paths
- Ensure soil slopes away from the home so runoff does not sit against the foundation. Fill low spots that collect water.
- Keep swales, side yards, and access to community retention areas open and free of debris where permitted. Review the Maricopa County drainage regulations for context on how urban runoff is managed.
- Use temporary flood barriers or sandbags to protect vulnerable low openings when heavy rain is forecast. The flood preparedness checklist includes loss‑avoidance tips.
Pools, irrigation, and erosion
- Turn off automatic irrigation during rainy periods so soil does not become oversaturated. Make sure sprinkler heads do not spray the house or send water onto hardscapes that drain back toward your slab.
- Inspect gravel and retaining areas for erosion or undermining. Small fixes are DIY friendly. Larger movement or wall issues may need engineered solutions.
During and after a storm
- Prioritize safety. Stay off wet or hot roofs. After the storm passes, do a walkaround from the ground and an attic check for leaks or damage.
- Photograph any damage before moving items or making temporary fixes. Photos and short videos help with claims and contractor estimates. A simple guide like the roof storm damage checklist can help you document.
- For repairs, contact licensed local pros and be wary of high‑pressure sales tactics. The NRCA advice on hiring roofers after severe weather highlights what to verify.
Insurance and documentation tips
- Standard homeowner policies often cover wind or hail damage that opens the roof, but flood from surface water is usually excluded and requires separate flood insurance. Review the Arizona Department of Insurance storm guidance and your policy specifics before the season.
- Keep dated photos of your roof and yard before and after storms, plus receipts for temporary protection like tarps or sandbags. The NFIP’s flood preparedness checklist explains loss‑avoidance steps that can help reduce damage.
Seasonal timeline for Glendale
- Spring (April–May)
- Do a visual roof inspection. Clean gutters and downspouts. Trim dead branches. Take pre‑season photos. Use a simple checklist to stay consistent.
- Early window (June 1–14)
- Finish repairs, secure outdoor items, and confirm your outage plan and contacts. The official season messaging starts June 15 in our region.
- Peak months (mid‑July to mid‑August)
- Check the forecast each afternoon. After big storms, inspect from the ground, document, and call pros or your insurer as needed. See the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension monsoon page for seasonal context.
- Post‑season (October)
- Handle any deferred repairs while weather is cooler. Plan larger roof projects before next spring.
Keep your home market‑ready
A well‑maintained roof and yard protect your comfort and your home’s value, especially in a fast‑moving monsoon. If you are thinking about selling or want a quick read on which fixes matter most in today’s West Valley market, reach out to Michael Osborn for local, practical guidance.
FAQs
When is monsoon season in Glendale and what are the main risks?
- It typically runs from June 15 to September 30 and brings strong winds, brief heavy rain, and occasional hail that can strain roofs, gutters, and yards.
How often should you inspect your roof before storms?
- Do a visual check each spring and schedule a professional inspection if your roof shows defects or is older, then recheck after major storms.
What should you do right after you spot storm damage?
- Stay off the roof, photograph damage from the ground and attic, make safe temporary protections, and contact your insurer and a licensed local roofer.
Does homeowner insurance cover monsoon water damage?
- Wind or hail that opens the roof is often covered, but surface flooding is not and usually needs separate flood insurance; review your policy and call your agent.
How can you improve yard drainage in Glendale neighborhoods?
- Maintain soil sloping away from the home, clear swales and inlets of debris, and use temporary barriers for low openings during heavy rain forecasts.
