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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Roofing, gutters, and working with our team

Tile Roofs & Climate

Why do tile roofs crack in St. George?
Southern Utah's daily temperature swings of 30–40°F cause concrete and clay tiles to expand and contract repeatedly. Over years, this thermal cycling weakens tiles — especially along edges and at fastener points. Add UV degradation from our extreme sun exposure (UV index 9–11 most of the year), and tiles that look fine from the ground can be brittle and cracked underneath. Regular inspections catch these issues early.
How does the desert climate affect my roof differently than other regions?
St. George roofs face a triple threat that most regions don't: intense UV radiation that degrades sealants and shingle granules faster, monsoon-season downpours that test waterproofing in sudden bursts, and wind gusts up to 60 mph that can lift tiles and shingles. Roofing materials and techniques that work in milder climates often fail here within a few years.
How often should I have my tile roof inspected?
We recommend a professional inspection at least once per year — ideally in spring before monsoon season hits in July. If your home is in an area that experiences higher winds (Hurricane, Toquerville) or if your roof is over 15 years old, twice a year is worth considering. An inspection typically takes about an hour and can save you thousands by catching problems early.
Can cracked tiles be repaired, or do they need to be replaced?
It depends on the severity. Hairline cracks can sometimes be sealed with a UV-rated roofing sealant as a temporary measure. However, tiles with structural cracks or chips should be replaced entirely — a patched tile won't hold up to another monsoon season. We always carry common tile profiles so we can match replacements to your existing roof.
What type of roofing material holds up best in Southern Utah?
Concrete and clay tile remain the top performers for our climate — they handle UV exposure well and last 40–50 years with proper maintenance. For shingle roofs, we recommend impact-resistant architectural shingles with Class 4 hail ratings and 130+ mph wind ratings. Standard 3-tab shingles tend to curl and lose granules within 10–15 years here.

Repair & Maintenance

How quickly can you start a repair?
We typically schedule repairs within one to two weeks of your initial call. For active leaks or storm damage, we prioritize getting out sooner — often within a few days. Most local competitors book out one to three months, so our turnaround is a significant advantage when you need work done.
Do you offer emergency roof repair?
Yes. If you have an active leak or storm damage that's exposing your home to further damage, call us right away at (435) 256-1366. We'll get a tarp or temporary seal in place quickly and then schedule the full repair as soon as possible.
What does a typical roof maintenance visit include?
Our maintenance visits cover debris removal from valleys and gutters, inspection of all flashing and pipe boots, sealant condition checks, tile or shingle assessment for cracking or lifting, and a photo-documented report of your roof's current condition. We also check for early signs of animal intrusion and ventilation issues.
How can I tell if my roof needs repair versus full replacement?
If damage is localized — a few cracked tiles, one area of lifted shingles, a single leak point — repair is usually the right call and far more cost-effective. When you're seeing widespread granule loss, multiple leak points, sagging decking, or your roof is past its expected lifespan (20–25 years for shingles, 40–50 for tile), replacement becomes the better investment. We'll always give you an honest recommendation.
Will you walk me through what you find during an inspection?
Every time. Uriah takes photos during every inspection and walks you through each finding — what's fine, what needs attention now, and what to watch over the next year or two. We believe you should understand exactly what's happening on your roof so you can make informed decisions.

Gutters & Leaf Guards

Why do gutters matter so much in the desert?
People assume desert means no rain, but St. George gets monsoon storms that dump heavy rain in short bursts. Without properly functioning gutters, that water pools around your foundation, erodes landscaping, and can cause stucco and siding damage. Gutters channel that water safely away from your home — they're essential here, not optional.
What type of leaf guard do you install?
We install micro-mesh leaf guard systems that block everything from large leaves to pine needles and cottonwood fluff while allowing full water flow. They're made from aluminum and stainless steel, so they won't rust or degrade in our UV-intense climate. They fit over your existing gutters — no need to replace the whole system.
How often do gutters need cleaning with leaf guards installed?
Most homeowners go from monthly or quarterly cleanings to once a year with leaf guards. You'll still want an annual check to clear any fine sediment that accumulates on top of the mesh, but the days of scooping handfuls of debris out of your gutters are over.
Can you repair just one section of my gutter, or does the whole run need replacing?
We repair individual sections all the time. If you have a localized leak, a separated joint, or a damaged section from a ladder or fallen branch, we can fix just that area. We only recommend full replacement when the gutters are old enough that patching one spot would just shift the problem to the next weakest point.

Working With Us

Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Washington County Roof and Gutter Repair is fully licensed in the state of Utah and carries liability insurance that protects both our team and your property on every job.
Do you offer free estimates?
Every estimate is free, and there's never any obligation. We'll inspect the area in question, explain what we find, and provide a written quote. If you decide to move forward, great. If not, you've still gained valuable information about your roof's condition.
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of Washington County, Utah, and neighboring communities: St. George, Hurricane, Ivins, Santa Clara, Washington City, Mesquite, NV, Toquerville, Veyo, Dammeron Valley, Bloomington Hills. If you're nearby but not on that list, give us a call — we may still be able to help.
Will the owner actually be at my job?
Yes. Uriah is on every job site, from the initial inspection through the final walkthrough. You're not hiring a company that sends out subcontractors you've never met — you're hiring the person who built this business and stakes his reputation on every repair.

Still Have Questions?

Call us or send a message — we're happy to help.