The Homeowner’s Roof Inspection Checklist: What to Look For Each Season

Roof care might not be at the top of your to-do list, but when a spring storm or sudden cold snap comes calling, your home’s first line of defense is the roof overhead. At Allan Lowe Roofing, we’ve seen how small issues can snowball—quickly turning a simple shingle fix into a full-blown emergency roofing call.

A little knowledge, a sharp eye, and a regular routine can save you from the stress (and cost) of surprise leaks, water stains, and storm damage. Here’s your trusted, no-nonsense guide for staying on top of seasonal roof checks—so you can rest easy, rain or shine.

Why Regular Inspections Matter 🏠

Imagine your roof as a sturdy umbrella. When it’s in good shape, your home stays dry and comfortable. But even the strongest umbrellas can spring a leak. Over time, wind, rain, and sun wear on every roof—no matter the material or age.

Regular inspections help you spot:

• Loose shingles before they blow away in a storm
• Clogged gutters before water backs up into your attic
• Rusty flashing before it lets water sneak into your walls

The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends homeowners inspect their roofs twice a year—ideally in spring and fall. This simple habit can add years to your roof’s lifespan, help you spot issues early, and give you peace of mind. It’s about prevention, not panic.

Spring & Summer Checklist

When snow melts and storms roll in, roofs take a beating. Here’s what to check as the weather warms:

After Spring Storms

• Shingles: Look for curling, missing, or cracked pieces. Hail can leave dents or bruises—even on tough materials like metal roofing.
• Downspouts & Gutters: Remove leaves, twigs, and winter debris. Water should flow freely, not pool or spill over.
• Roof Flashing: Inspect metal strips around vents, chimneys, and skylights. If you see rust or gaps, water can find its way in.
• Skylight Seals: Peeling caulk or foggy glass signals trouble. Clean skylights and check for leaks after heavy rain.
• Chimney Flashing: Look for signs of water stains or crumbling mortar around the base.
• Attic Check: On a sunny day, go inside. If you see daylight peeking through or feel a draft, there’s a gap.

Summer Heat Hazards

• Shingle Granules: Check your gutters for piles of sand-like granules. This means shingles are wearing thin.
• Sealants & Coatings: Sun bakes and cracks sealants. Touch up or reseal as needed—especially on flat roofs.
• Ventilation & Insulation: Make sure vents aren’t blocked. Poor airflow cooks your attic (and raises energy bills).
• Decking Sag: Walk the roof edge (from the ground). If it looks wavy, the decking beneath may be soft or water-damaged.

Don’t forget: If you live in a region prone to hurricanes or severe hail, always do a full inspection after any major storm.

Fall & Winter Checklist

Leaves, cold snaps, and ice can be tough on roofs. Here’s what to watch for as temperatures drop:

Autumn Preparation

• Gutter Cleaning: Clear gutters and downspouts regularly. Clogs can cause water to pool and damage fascia boards.
• Tree Limbs: Trim any branches hanging over your roof—they can scrape shingles or break in a storm.
• Roof Valleys: Leaves love to collect here. Remove debris so water can run off easily.
• Check Flashing: Ice and water shield under flashing can fail if it’s old or poorly sealed.

Winter Threats

• Ice Dams: Watch for thick ridges of ice on the roof edge. These trap water and lead to leaks inside. If you spot one, call for emergency roofing help.
• Attic Condensation: If your attic feels damp, improve ventilation. Moisture can rot wood and grow mold.
• Snow Load: Heavy snow can strain older or flat roofs. Look for sagging or cracking indoors and out.
• Downspouts: Make sure they’re clear before freezing temps hit. Blocked downspouts turn meltwater into dangerous icicles.

When to Call a Pro

Some fixes are simple—others call for a licensed hand. Here’s when to reach out for professional help from Allan Lowe Roofing:

• Visible leaks or water stains inside your home
• Large areas of missing or damaged shingles
• Sagging roof deck or visible structural damage
• Storm, hail, or hurricane aftermath (especially if others in your neighborhood have roofers on site)
• Persistent ice dams despite cleaning

A licensed roofing inspector can use specialized tools (like infrared cameras) to spot hidden moisture, check for code compliance, and recommend repairs that fit your home’s needs. Every Allan Lowe Roofing inspection comes with a clear, digital or printable checklist so you know exactly what was reviewed.

DIY Roof Inspection: Safety First

Before you grab a ladder, remember: Falls from roofs and ladders send thousands of homeowners to the ER every year. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends these simple steps:

• Use a sturdy, non-slip ladder on level ground
• Never inspect a wet, icy, or steep roof yourself
• Wear shoes with good grip
• Work with a buddy, or have someone nearby in case of emergency

When in doubt, inspect from the ground with binoculars—or leave it to the pros.

What Roofing Pros Do On Arrival

Here’s how Allan Lowe Roofing approaches every inspection:

1. Exterior walkaround: We look for obvious damage, missing shingles, and signs of storm impact.
2. Gutter & downspout check: We confirm proper water flow and look for clogs or loose sections.
3. Flashing & sealant review: Our team inspects every joint, seam, and vent for cracking or rust.
4. Attic & interior check: We look for moisture, daylight leaks, or insulation issues.
5. Digital documentation: Photos and notes, so you have a record for insurance or future repairs.

We follow local building codes and safety guidelines on every visit.

Prevention & Maintenance Tips

Want to stretch your roof’s lifespan?

• Schedule professional inspections every spring and fall
• Keep gutters and downspouts clear—especially after storms
• Trim trees and remove debris from roof valleys
• Check attic insulation and ventilation yearly
• After any major storm, do a quick walkaround (from the ground) to spot new issues

Eco-friendly options—like cool roofing coatings or improved insulation—can also reduce wear and lower utility costs.

Common Costs & Time Factors

Roof inspection costs vary by region, roof size, and height. Most residential checks take 1–2 hours. Minor repairs—like sealing a vent or swapping a few shingles—can often be done the same day. Larger jobs (roof replacement, structural repair) require more planning and materials.

Keep in mind: Unexpected leaks or emergency roofing calls may cost more due to urgency, materials, and weather conditions. But regular maintenance can prevent most big-ticket surprises.

When It’s an Emergency

Some roof problems can’t wait. Call for emergency roofing help if you notice:

• Water pouring in during a storm
• Visible holes or major shingle loss after high winds
• Collapsed or sagging sections of roof or ceiling
• Major leaks around chimneys, skylights, or vents

Quick response can limit damage and save you money in the long run. Allan Lowe Roofing is available around the clock for urgent calls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I inspect my roof?
Twice a year—spring and fall—plus after any major storm.

Can I check my roof myself?
Yes, for basic issues and from the ground. But for steep, high, or slippery roofs, call a professional.

What are signs I need emergency roofing?
Leaks, holes, major storm damage, or visible sagging are all red flags.

Is there a checklist I can use?
Yes! Ask Allan Lowe Roofing for a digital or printable checklist after your inspection.

Local & Seasonal Considerations

Every region has its own threats. In hail-prone areas, check for dented shingles or metal. In hurricane zones, look for loose flashing and missing tiles after storms. Northern homes should watch for ice dams and snow load on flat roofs. If you see neighbors repairing after a storm, it’s smart to inspect your own roof—even if you don’t see immediate damage.

Customer reviews say it best: Regular checks and fast repairs keep everyone’s home safer. You don’t have to know everything about roofing—just what to look for, and when to call in help.

Stay ahead of leaks, storm damage, and costly surprises. Call Allan Lowe Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  855-506-8285 .