Roofing

Roof Maintenance Checklist (Seasonal)

Twice-yearly roof and gutter checks catch flashing failures, granule loss, and blocked drainage before they become leaks. Most of the work is inspection and cleaning — not climbing in a storm.

8 min read

Spring and fall from the ground

Use binoculars from the yard. Look for missing tabs, exposed nails, sagging ridges, and shingle edges that look wavy. From the attic, look for daylight, rusted nails, and dark staining on the underside of the deck.

  • Granules piled in downspouts after rain
  • Shingles curling at the edges or bald spots
  • Drip edge pulling away from the fascia

Gutters, valleys, and flashing

Clogged gutters force water under shingles. Valleys and step flashing at walls and chimneys fail more often than the field of the roof. After leaf drop, clear screens and check that downspouts discharge several feet from the foundation.

  • Clean gutters at least twice a year, more under trees
  • Look for rusted or pulled chimney counterflashing
  • Reseal or replace cracked pipe boots

What not to do yourself

Walking a steep or wet roof is a common way homeowners get hurt and void warranties. Limit DIY to ground-level photos, attic checks, and gutter work from a stable ladder with a spotter.

  • Do not pressure-wash asphalt shingles
  • Do not use cheap roofing tar as a long-term leak fix
  • Hire a licensed roofer after hail, high wind, or a ceiling stain

Frequently asked questions

How often should a roof be professionally inspected?
Every two to three years for a mid-life roof, and after any hail or wind event. Annual inspections make sense once the roof is past 15 years or you have had a leak.
Do gutter guards mean I can skip roof maintenance?
No. Guards reduce leaf clogs but still need inspection. They do not protect flashing, ventilation, or shingle seals.