Roof Maintenance Checklist — What to Do and When
Inspect your roof twice a year (spring and fall) and after major storms. Check for missing shingles, damaged flashing, clogged gutters, moss/algae, and attic moisture. Annual professional maintenance costs $150-$500 and extends roof life by 5-15 years. The most important maintenance: keep gutters clean and address small problems immediately.
Cost Breakdown
| Service | Low | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY inspection | $0 | $0 | Binoculars + ladder |
| Professional inspection | $100 | $300 | Annual recommended |
| Gutter cleaning | $100 | $250 | 2x per year |
| Minor repairs | $150 | $500 | As needed |
| Moss treatment | $200 | $600 | As needed |
| Annual maintenance plan | $200 | $600 | Inspection + repairs |
Seasonal Roof Maintenance
Spring Checklist
- ☐ Visual inspection from ground (binoculars help) — look for missing, curling, or damaged shingles
- ☐ Clean gutters and downspouts — remove winter debris
- ☐ Check for winter ice dam damage (lifted shingles at eaves)
- ☐ Inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- ☐ Look for moss or algae growth (north-facing slopes)
- ☐ Check attic for moisture, staining, or daylight showing through
- ☐ Trim tree branches hanging over or touching the roof
Fall Checklist
- ☐ Clean gutters again (leaves are the main culprit)
- ☐ Inspect and repair any summer storm damage
- ☐ Check caulking and sealant around penetrations
- ☐ Verify attic ventilation is working properly
- ☐ Check insulation — adequate insulation prevents ice dams
- ☐ Remove any debris accumulated on the roof
- ☐ Schedule professional inspection if the roof is 10+ years old
After Storms
- ☐ Check for missing or displaced shingles
- ☐ Look for dents (hail) on gutters, vents, and shingles
- ☐ Check for fallen branches on or near the roof
- ☐ Look inside for new water stains or active drips
- ☐ Document any damage with photos immediately
What NOT to Do
- ❌ Pressure wash shingles (removes granules, voids warranty)
- ❌ Walk on the roof unnecessarily (damages shingles, safety risk)
- ❌ Ignore small problems (a $200 repair becomes a $5,000 problem)
- ❌ Cover vents or soffits (kills ventilation, causes moisture damage)
Related Questions
Can I inspect my own roof?
You can do a ground-level inspection with binoculars — check for obvious damage, missing shingles, and gutter condition. For a thorough inspection, hire a professional. Walking on a roof is dangerous and can damage shingles. Drones are increasingly used for safe DIY aerial inspection.
How much does ignoring roof maintenance cost?
A lot. A $200 missing shingle repair becomes a $2,000 leak repair becomes a $10,000 structural repair. Water damage from roof leaks causes mold ($2,000-$6,000 to remediate), ceiling replacement ($500-$2,000), and potentially structural damage ($5,000-$15,000+).
Does roof maintenance extend the warranty?
Most manufacturer warranties require regular maintenance and professional inspection records. Neglecting maintenance can void your warranty. Keep all inspection reports and repair receipts as proof of proper care.