Roof Maintenance Guide
Your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home or building—it protects everything underneath from the elements. Yet, it’s often overlooked until a leak or visible damage appears. Regular roof maintenance not only helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your roof, but it also ensures your property remains safe, energy-efficient, and structurally sound. A little upkeep goes a long way in avoiding major headaches down the road.
Step One: Roof Inspection!
A roof inspection is a thorough check-up of your roofing system to spot any signs of damage, wear, or potential problems before they become major issues. It’s a key part of regular maintenance and helps extend the life of your roof.
What a Roof Inspection Includes:
1. Exterior Inspection (On the Roof):
Shingles or Roofing Material: Check for cracks, curling, missing or loose pieces as well as shingles that can be lifted at the bottom by hand.
Flashing: Inspect around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys for rust, detachment or damage.
Seals & Joints: Look for cracks or gaps where water could get in.
Moss, Algae, or Debris: Can cause deterioration over time.
Structural Issues: Sagging areas or soft spots that could mean rot or water damage.
2. Interior Inspection (From the Attic or Ceiling):
Leaks or Water Stains: Brown spots, damp insulation, or drips.
Mold or Mildew: Indicates moisture buildup or poor ventilation.
Light Penetration: Light shining through the roof boards could signal gaps or holes.
Ventilation & Insulation: Proper airflow prevents moisture damage and keeps energy costs down.
How Often Should You Inspect?
At least twice a year – once after winter and once after summer as these are the times where your roof will undergo the most stress.
After severe weather – especially hail, strong winds, or heavy snow.
Before selling or buying a home
Common Flashing Problems
A deteriorated collar on a plumbing flashing which will allow moisture to drip down into the attic. This one was created from intense heat due to proximity to a fire and requires the entire flashing to be replaced.
A very common cracked gooseneck flashing with exposed nails – allowing water ingress. We always recommend replacing these with metal units and using cladding screws to create a maintenance free fastening system.
An SV-50 Roofing Vent with cracks around the fasteners penetrating through the flange – typically caused by failing to nail in the proper position allowing wind and thermal expansion to twist the flashing against the fastener until it breaks.
Step Two: Maintenance
Basic Roof Repair Tips
When doing minor roof repairs, it’s important to use the right materials and techniques to avoid further damage:
Secure Loose Shingles: Use roof cement to tack down loose shingles—but avoid using it on non-metallic flashings. For those, apply a tripolymer sealant instead, as petroleum-based products can degrade certain flashing materials.
Seal Exposed Nails: Cover any exposed nails with tripolymer sealant to prevent rust and leaks. For a longer-lasting fix, replace exposed nails with cladding screws.
Replace Damaged Shingles: Any cracked, missing, or broken shingles should be replaced promptly to keep the roof watertight.
Upgrade Flashings: Damaged or rusted flashing should be replaced with high-quality metal flashing to ensure a strong, weather-resistant seal around roof edges, vents, and chimneys.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Why: Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the roof or overflow, leading to rot and foundation issues.
How:
Remove debris by hand or use a scoop
Flush gutters with a hose
Check for sagging or detachment
Install gutter guards if needed
Frequency: Every 3–4 months, or more often in areas with heavy leaf fall.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Why: Overhanging limbs can scrape shingles, drop debris, or even fall during storms.
Tip: Keep tree branches at least 10 feet away from the roof.
Check for Moss, Algae & Mold
How to Remove:
Use a moss killer (zinc or potassium-based)
Gently scrub with a soft brush
Avoid power washing (can damage shingles) soft washing is OK.
Prevention: Install zinc or strips at the roof ridge.