Spring inspection (March-May)
Spring inspection focuses on damage from winter freeze-thaw cycles, wind, and snow load. Schedule it on the first dry weekend after the last frost.
- Full visual inspection from the ground (see DIY checklist)
- Clean gutters of leaf debris and check for ice-dam damage at the eaves
- Look for missing or lifted shingles from winter wind events
- Check ridge vents and roof vents — winter ice can crack them
- Trim back any tree branches that grew over the roof
- Photo-document for comparison to fall inspection
Fall inspection (September-November)
Fall inspection prepares the roof for winter. Schedule it before the first frost.
- Full visual inspection from the ground
- Clean gutters of leaves and check for proper pitch toward downspouts
- Inspect every penetration's flashing and rubber boot — replace any cracked boots before winter freezes them solid
- Confirm attic ventilation is unobstructed (insects build nests in vent screens by fall)
- Walk the perimeter for any branches, debris, or new tree growth
- Check chimney cap and damper
- Re-caulk any exposed sealant joints if cracks have appeared
Climate-specific add-ons
These tasks are specific to certain regions and only matter where they apply:
Hot/sunny (TX, FL, AZ, CA)
UV is your enemy. Add to spring inspection: photograph each slope under flat lighting (early morning) so you can track granule loss year-over-year. Add to fall: check rubber pipe boots and seals — heat ages them faster than UV ages shingles.
Hail Alley (TX/OK/CO/KS/NE/MO)
Add an immediate post-storm inspection any time hail hits your zip code, even if it 'didn't seem bad.' Hail bruises shingles in ways that are hard to see for the first 6-12 months but progressively shed granules over the next 1-3 years. Document immediately so you have a baseline if it deteriorates and you need to file a delayed claim.
Cold (Northeast, Midwest, Mountain West)
Winter is the high-risk season. Add to fall: confirm attic insulation is properly distributed and ventilation is working — these prevent ice dams. Mid-winter, after each major snowfall, monitor the eaves for icicle formation. Icicles + ice on shingles = ice dam, which forces water under shingles. Don't try to remove ice yourself; hire a roof rake service.
Coastal (FL, NC, SC, GA, LA, TX coast)
Hurricanes drive a different cadence. Add: pre-season check (May/June) of all hurricane straps, fastener integrity, and edge bonds. Post-season check (December) for cumulative damage that may not have triggered an immediate claim but progressed over the season.