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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.