4 Ways Homeowners Can Maintain Their Roof
Your roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements. Regular maintenance doesn't just extend the life of your roof — it protects everything underneath it. In this video, we cover the 4 most important ways homeowners can maintain their roof and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Why Roof Maintenance Matters
A well-maintained roof can last 20–30 years or more, while a neglected one can fail in half that time. Staying on top of routine care helps you:
- Prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs
- Protect your home's structural integrity
- Maintain your home's energy efficiency
- Keep your home warranty and insurance coverage valid
- Preserve and increase your property's value
Way #1: Inspect Your Roof Regularly
The foundation of any good roof maintenance plan is knowing what to look for. Homeowners should inspect their roof at least twice a year — once in the spring and once in the fall — and after any major storm.
What to Look For During an Inspection
- 🔍 Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
- 🔍 Sagging areas or dips in the roofline
- 🔍 Damaged or rusted flashing around chimneys and vents
- 🔍 Granule buildup in gutters (sign of shingle wear)
- 🔍 Dark stains or streaks indicating algae or moss growth
- 🔍 Signs of water damage or leaks in the attic
If you're not comfortable going on the roof yourself, use binoculars from the ground or hire a professional roofer for an annual inspection.
Way #2: Keep Gutters Clean and Clear
Clogged gutters are one of the leading causes of roof damage. When gutters overflow, water backs up under the shingles and into the fascia boards, leading to rot, leaks, and structural damage.
Gutter Maintenance Checklist
- 🍂 Clean gutters at least twice a year (spring and fall)
- 🍂 Remove leaves, twigs, and debris by hand or with a blower
- 🍂 Flush gutters with a garden hose to check for proper drainage
- 🍂 Check that downspouts direct water away from the foundation
- 🍂 Consider installing gutter guards to reduce buildup
- 🍂 Inspect for sagging sections or loose fasteners
Way #3: Trim Overhanging Trees and Branches
Overhanging tree branches are a hidden hazard for your roof. They can scrape shingles during wind, drop debris that traps moisture, and during storms, fall directly onto your roof causing serious damage.
- Trim branches that hang within 6 feet of your roof surface
- Remove dead limbs that are at risk of falling, especially before storm season
- Watch for root growth near your foundation that could affect drainage
- Hire a certified arborist for large trees to ensure safe trimming
Keeping trees properly trimmed also reduces the amount of leaves and debris that end up in your gutters, giving you a double benefit.
Way #4: Address Small Repairs Immediately
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is putting off minor roof repairs. A single missing shingle or a small crack in the flashing can lead to water infiltration that causes mold, rot, and structural damage — repairs that can cost thousands of dollars.
Common Small Repairs to Act On Quickly
- 🔧 Replace missing or damaged shingles right away
- 🔧 Re-seal cracked or lifted flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- 🔧 Patch small holes or punctures before they grow
- 🔧 Treat moss or algae growth with appropriate roof-safe solutions
- 🔧 Reseal roof penetrations such as pipes and HVAC units annually
Bonus Tip: Know When to Call a Professional
While many inspection and light maintenance tasks are DIY-friendly, some situations call for a licensed roofing contractor:
- Widespread shingle damage or missing sections
- Persistent leaks that don't resolve after patching
- Sagging or soft spots in the roof deck
- Storm damage requiring an insurance claim inspection
- Any repair work near electrical components or HVAC units
Protect Your Roof with a Home Warranty
Even with the best maintenance routine, unexpected issues happen. A home warranty plan can help cover repair and replacement costs for key systems connected to your roof, including:
- HVAC systems — including roof-mounted units
- Electrical systems affected by water intrusion
- Plumbing damaged by leaks that travel through the structure
- 24/7 service requests so you can act fast when problems arise
Final Thoughts
Your roof works hard every single day to protect your family and your home. Giving it the regular care it deserves — through inspections, clean gutters, tree trimming, and prompt repairs — will keep it strong for decades.
Keep Your Roof in Top Shape Year-Round
Watch the full video for an in-depth look at all 4 roof maintenance tips, and start building a routine that protects your home from the top down. A little attention twice a year can save you thousands in repairs.