5 Roof Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Roof in Top Shape

Your roof takes a beating year-round—scorching summers, heavy rain, freezing winters, and everything in between. But let’s be real—most homeowners don’t think about their roof until something goes wrong. A little routine maintenance can save you thousands and extend the life of your roof. So, before you end up with a surprise indoor waterfall, check out these five easy roof maintenance tips to keep your home safe and dry.

1. Keep Your Gutters Clean

Clogged gutters = water pooling where it shouldn’t. And that means leaks, rot, and potential foundation damage. Twice a year (spring and fall), grab a ladder and clear out leaves, dirt, and debris. If you want to make life easier, consider installing gutter guards.

Pro Tip: Check for granules from your shingles in the gutters. A lot of granules mean your roof is wearing down.

2. Check for Missing or Damaged Shingles

A few missing shingles might not seem like a big deal—until water sneaks in and causes mold, rot, and insulation damage. After storms or high winds, do a quick visual check from the ground. If you spot curled, cracked, or missing shingles, call in a pro before a small problem becomes a major headache.

Pro Tip: Use binoculars to inspect your roof from a distance instead of climbing up there yourself. Safety first!

3. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

Trees are great for shade, but branches hanging over your roof are bad news. They scrape shingles, drop leaves that clog gutters, and can break off in a storm, causing major damage. Keep branches trimmed back at least 6-10 feet from your roof to avoid unnecessary repairs.

Pro Tip: Check for moss or algae growing on shingles—overhanging trees create the perfect shady, damp environment for them to thrive.

4. Inspect Flashing and Seals Around Roof Openings

Your roof has vulnerable points—like vents, chimneys, and skylights. If the flashing (the metal strips that seal these areas) starts to crack, rust, or lift, water can sneak in. Take a look at these areas annually and reseal any gaps with roofing caulk if needed. Hiring a pro to conduct a Roof Tune Up can be a great way to ensure this gets done right and safely. 

Pro Tip: If you notice water stains on ceilings or walls, it’s a sign that you have a leak that needs to be acted on fast!!

5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Even if everything looks fine to the untrained eye, a pro can spot small problems before they turn into big (expensive) ones. Having your roof inspected once a year—or after extreme weather—can extend its lifespan and help you avoid costly surprises.

Pro Tip: Roof Leopard offers free roof assessments which include photos and video documentation so you know exactly what you're looking at. 

Final Thoughts

Your roof is the first line of defense for your home—take care of it, and it’ll take care of you. With a little maintenance and routine checks, you can avoid leaks, prevent costly damage, and get the most life out of your roof.

Want an expert opinion? Schedule a roof inspection with us and keep your home protected!