Put a Roof Check on Your Fall Maintenance List

When it comes to protecting your home, your roof is the unsung hero. It shields you from rain, wind, snow, and sun every single day. Yet most homeowners don’t think twice about it until a problem pops up. By then, it’s usually more than just a minor inconvenience. That’s why fall is the perfect time to give your roof some attention. Taking a little time now can save you a lot of stress and money once winter sets in.

Take a Quick Look

Start simple. Stand back in your yard and scan your roof from the ground. Do the shingles look flat and uniform? Or do you see sagging areas, dark streaks, or patches that just don’t look right? Those could be early warning signs of bigger problems.

Don’t forget the inside of your home either. Water stains on the ceiling, peeling paint, or small cracks in your walls can all signal that moisture is making its way in. Even if you don’t see active dripping, these issues usually start small and then spread. Catching them early is the key.

Remember the Roof’s Birthday

Age is one of the biggest factors in how your roof performs. Most roofs last about 20 years, but that number isn’t set in stone. The quality of the installation, insulation, and ventilation all make a difference. A roof that’s well-installed and properly ventilated can easily last a few extra years, while a poorly maintained one can wear out much sooner.

If your roof is pushing the two-decade mark - or if you’re not sure how old it is - it’s time to start planning ahead. This is especially important if you’ve recently bought your home. Knowing when your roof was last replaced can help you budget and avoid surprises down the road.

Check Those Shingles

Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense, and they’re also one of the easiest things to inspect. Look for shingles that are curling at the edges, splitting down the middle, or missing altogether. These issues often happen as roofs age and are exposed to the elements year after year.

While you’re at it, take a peek at your gutters and downspouts. If you notice piles of shingle granules collecting there, it’s a sign that the protective coating on your shingles is wearing away. Once that happens, your roof is much more vulnerable to leaks.

Don’t Brush Off Moss or Mold

It’s not unusual to see a little moss or dark staining on a roof, but don’t ignore it. Moss and mold thrive in damp, shaded areas, and they can signal that moisture is getting trapped under your shingles. Left unchecked, that moisture can lead to rotting plywood and costly structural damage.

Sometimes, the fix is as simple as cleaning the roof and improving ventilation. Other times, it may require replacing damaged areas. If you’re not sure which it is, calling in a professional is the safest route.

Look Inside, Too

Your ceilings and walls can often tell you what your roof can’t. Yellowish-brown stains, bubbling paint, or cracked drywall are all signs of water damage. Even if the issue looks small, it’s best not to wait. Roof leaks don’t heal themselves - they only get worse. Acting quickly can prevent a small drip from becoming a major repair job.

Call in the Pros

If you’re not comfortable judging the condition of your roof - or just want peace of mind - bring in an expert. Many roofing companies, ours included, offer free inspections. A roofer can tell you how much life your roof has left, point out any problem areas, and recommend the best next steps.

One of the most common reasons roofs fail before their time is poor ventilation and insulation. These issues can cause shingles to age faster, trap moisture, and even lead to rot. A good roofer won’t just look at the surface - they’ll check what’s going on underneath, too.

A little preventative maintenance this fall can make all the difference. Your roof protects everything beneath it. Giving it a checkup now means fewer surprises, fewer headaches, and fewer bills later on.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. For questions, email info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” Questions may be selected for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.