Home / Routine Roof Maintenance

Extend the Life of Your Roof Through Routine Maintenance

Your roof is your first line of defense against the elements. When it fails, water can quickly enter your home amplifying a cascade of costly damage and possibly unlivable conditions. IBHS research shows that after natural disasters, like hurricanes, tornadoes, and other severe storms, up to 90% of insurance claims involve roof damage. That’s why routine inspections and maintenance are critical.

Common Causes of Roof Leaks

Roof leaks in homes can be caused by many factors. The most common include:

  • Weather-Related Damage (Primary Cause) – Heavy rain, snow, hail, high winds, and freeze/thaw cycles can weaken shingles, tiles, and other materials over time. Severe weather often exposes or worsens existing vulnerabilities.
  • Damaged Roof Cover or Materials – Broken, missing, curling, or blistering shingles; cracked or detached tiles; or dented, rusted, or loose metal panels create entry points for water. Natural weathering along with impacts from fallen branches or storm debris, can further compromise the roof surface if left unaddressed.
  • Poor Drainage (Gutters & Valleys) – Clogged or poorly secured gutters and downspouts can back water up onto the roof and fascia. Debris in roof valleys prevents proper runoff, leading to water pooling and seepage. Ice dams can form in cold climates, allowing liquid water from snowmelt to back up and leak under shingles.
  • Flashing & Sealant Failures – Flashing around chimneys, skylights, vents, and roof edges can corrode, pull loose, or crack. Sealant around penetrations may deteriorate with age and exposure.
  • Aging Roof Systems – After 5 years it is recommended to have annual inspections. A roof may be considered “aged out” when leaks and repairs become recurring despite maintenance.
  • Improper Installation or Neglected Maintenance – Poor workmanship, skipping inspections, or delaying small repairs can shorten the lifespan of the roof and increase leak risks.

 

Insurance & Roof Lifespan Considerations

  • Coverage: Roof leaks may be covered by insurance if they result from a covered peril such as wind, hail, or fire, but not from wear and tear or lack of maintenance. The payout depends on your policy type (Actual Cash Value or Replacement Cost Value) and deductible, so always confirm coverage details with your insurance provider.
  • Maintenance & Claims: Documented, routine maintenance not only extends the life of your roof but also helps ensure claims are honored after severe weather.

 

Home Roof Inspection & Preventive Maintenance

Routine Inspections

  • Schedule a professional roof inspection once a year and after major storms. Many contractors provide photos or reports for your records.
  • Document inspections, repairs, and contractor visits for warranty and insurance purposes.
  • Why Do I Need a Roof Inspection? Think of a roof inspection as an annual check-up for your home. Even if it “looks fine” from the ground, a close inspection may reveal loose flashing, deteriorating seals, or water damage in the attic.

Inspections help you:

    • Catch small issues early before they become expensive repairs.
    • Prevent leaks and water intrusion that damage walls, ceilings, and belongings.
    • Extend the service life of your roof system.

Get Tips on Hiring a Roofing Contractor 

Solar Panels (if applicable)

  • Have solar panels inspected and maintained by a licensed, insured photovoltaic contractor.

 

How to Spot & Address Roof Leaks

Interior Checks

  • Look for water stains, peeling paint or wallpaper, damp insulation, or mold in ceilings, walls, and the attic.
  • Trace signs of moisture back toward possible roof entry points, typically found around chimneys, vents, pipes, and valleys.

Exterior from the Ground (Use binoculars or a drone)

  • Walk around your home and check for:
    • Gutters or downspouts draining improperly
    • Water stains on siding
    • Missing shingles, loose flashing, or other visible roof damage

On-the-Roof

  • Best practice: hire a licensed and insured professional for a safe and thorough inspection.

Temporary Leak Containment

  • Place a bucket or tarp under active leaks to catch water.
  • Move furniture and valuables out of the way.
  • Mark leak spots clearly for your contractor.

Note: Temporary fixes only limit damage. Always schedule a professional repair to correct it at the source.

Roof Maintenance Checklist

Follow these recommendations to keep your roof in top condition.

 

1. Avoid These Actions – Understanding What Not to Do

  • Never pressure wash your asphalt shingle roof. The high-pressured water strips granules and forces water under unsealed shingles causing leaks and premature aging.
  • Avoid walking on your roof, especially when wet.
  • Don’t attach items (lights, solar panels, satellite dishes) with nails or screws that puncture the roof.
  • Do not ignore leaves or debris buildup, which weighs down the roof, traps moisture, and promotes rot.
  • Don’t lift asphalt or synthetic composite shingles to “check underneath”. The back of shingles have a sealant and this breaks the seal, weakening the shingle’s protection.
  • Never install a new roof cover over an old one. Remove the old roof cover first.

 

2. Roof Cover Condition

  • Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Check for loose, cracked, missing, curling, or blistering shingles; look for worn granules.
  • Tile Roofs (Clay/Concrete/Slate): Inspect for cracked, broken, or detached tiles.
  • Wood Roofs: Check for rot or insect damage.
  • Metal Roofs: Look for rust, loose screws, corroded fasteners, dents, or peeling paint.

 

3. Roof Valleys & Seams

  • Inspect valley seams and dormer connections for leaks.
  • Remove leaves, branches, and dirt that collect and block drainage.

 

4. Flashing, Pipes, Vents, Skylights & Chimneys

  • Flashing: Look for loose, bent, or missing sections of flashing at roof edges, valleys, and around penetrations. Check for gaps, rust, or cracks that could let water in. Reseal or replace if damaged.
  • Pipes: Inspect the roof boots or pipe flashing where plumbing or vent pipes penetrate the roof. Look closely at the rubber seals, which can crack, split, or deteriorate over time. Replace cracked boots promptly to prevent leaks.
  • Vents: Check vent housing and caps for loose seals, rusted, or missing fasteners. Gently wiggle vents — they should feel secure, not loose or shifting. Replace rusted or deteriorated parts.
  • Skylights: Inspect for cracks or impact damage. Check flashing around the curb for looseness, warping, or gaps. Look for stains, moisture, or fogging inside the glass as signs of leaks.
  • Chimneys: Inspect chimney flashing for gaps, separation, or rust. Check the masonry for missing mortar, cracks, or spalling bricks. If mortar or bricks are deteriorated, contact a mason for repairs.

 

5. Gutters & Downspouts

  • Confirm gutters are securely anchored to the building with wind-resistant straps.
  • Inspect for missing, loose, or disconnected sections.
  • Remove all debris, vegetation, and asphalt granules.
  • Confirm downspouts divert water 3+ feet away from the foundation.

 

6. Trim Trees

  • Remove overhanging branches that could rub, drop debris, or give wildlife roof access.
  • Remove dead or diseased trees that could fall on the home.

 

7. Snow & Ice Considerations

  • Hire professionals to remove heavy snow and ice safely. Excess buildup can cause sagging, collapse, or ice dams that damage shingles.
  • Ensure attic insulation doesn’t block soffit vents as poor ventilation causes ice dams.
  • Replace wet insulation to prevent mold growth.