Use this checklist twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall—to conduct a thorough roof assessment. For safety, many of these checks should be done from the ground with binoculars. Never get on a steep or wet roof without proper safety equipment and training.

1. The Shingles or Roof Surface

Your shingles are the armor of your roof. Their condition is a primary indicator of your roof’s overall health.

• [ ] Inspect for Damaged Shingles: Look for any shingles that are cracked, curled, blistering, or missing. Pay close attention to the edges and corners, where wind damage is common.
• [ ] Check for Granule Loss: Scan your gutters and the area around your downspouts for an accumulation of black, sand-like granules. Significant granule loss means your shingles are aging and their protective layer is wearing away.
• [ ] Look for Moss, Algae, or Debris: Note any areas with dark streaks (algae), green patches (moss), or a buildup of leaves and twigs. Organic growth traps moisture and can damage your roofing materials.

2. The Gutters and Drainage System

Your gutters are a critical part of your roofing system, responsible for directing water away from your home.

• [ ] Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove all leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters. Clogged gutters cause water to back up and seep under the roof’s edge, leading to rot.
• [ ] Check for Gutter Damage: Inspect the gutters for any signs of sagging, rust, or leaks at the seams. Ensure they are securely attached to the fascia board.
• [ ] Test Water Flow: After cleaning, run water through the gutters with a hose to ensure it flows freely through the downspouts and drains away from your home’s foundation.

3. Flashing and Sealants

Flashing consists of metal pieces that seal the joints where your roof meets a vertical surface. These are the most common spots for leaks.

• [ ] Examine Flashing Around Penetrations: Carefully inspect the flashing around your chimney, vents, pipes, and skylights.
• [ ] Look for Gaps or Damage: Check for any signs of rust, dents, or gaps in the sealant. The caulking used to seal flashing can dry out and crack over time, creating an entry point for water.

4. The Surrounding Environment

Your roof doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Its immediate surroundings can pose a direct threat.

• [ ] Trim Overhanging Branches: Cut back any tree limbs that are touching or hanging directly over your roof. Branches can scrape away shingle granules or break and fall during a storm, causing impact damage.
• [ ] Assess Attic Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for a healthy roof. Check that your attic vents (at the soffits, ridges, or gables) are not blocked by insulation, debris, or bird nests. A well-ventilated attic prevents heat and moisture buildup that can warp your roof deck and shingles.

5. The Interior and Attic

Sometimes the first sign of a roof problem appears inside your home.

• [ ] Inspect Ceilings and Walls: Look for any water stains, discoloration, or peeling paint on the ceilings and walls of your top floor.
• [ ] Check the Attic: Safely inspect your attic for any signs of water intrusion, such as damp insulation, a musty smell, or visible daylight coming through the roof deck.

6. Schedule a Professional Inspection

This is the final, and most important, item on your checklist.

• [ ] Book a Professional Inspection Annually: While your own inspections are valuable, they can’t replace the expertise of a trained roofer. A professional can safely get on the roof to perform a hands-on assessment, spot subtle issues you might miss, and perform minor preventative repairs.