A Roof and Gutter Inspection Checklist for Spring

After a long New England winter, your roof and gutters deserve a little TLC. Spring is the perfect time to inspect for any damage left behind by winter and prep your home for the warmer season ahead. Here’s a simple 10-step checklist to help you spring into action because a quick, proactive check now can save you serious money and headaches down the road. 

1. Safety First. Start smart. Use a sturdy ladder on flat ground, wear shoes with good traction, and don’t go it alone. If your roof is steep or high, consider a safety harness or call in a pro.

2. Ground-Level Walkaround. Before climbing anything, take a walk around your home. Look up and scan for missing or damaged shingles, sagging rooflines, or any debris buildup from winter storms. A pair of binoculars is a handy tool here.

3. Inspect the Roof Surface. If it’s safe, climb up for a closer look. Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can loosen shingles, damage flashing, and open up trouble spots. Focus on high-risk areas like valleys, chimneys, and skylights.

4. Flashing & Seal Check. Snow and ice can crack flashing and wear down seals around vents and roof joints. Look for gaps or rust, and re-seal any areas that no longer look watertight.

5. Clean Out the Gutters. Winter storms can clog your gutters with leaves, pine needles, and shingle grit. Clear out all debris and make sure water flows freely through the downspouts—otherwise, you’re risking water damage and foundation issues.

6. Confirm Gutter Slope. Gutters should slope slightly toward the downspouts. If water pools or overflows, grab a level and check. Adjust the hangers as needed to restore proper drainage.

7. Check Fascia & Soffits. Cold, wet weather is hard on wood. Look for signs of rot, peeling paint, or pest activity on the fascia boards and soffits—these areas often show the first signs of hidden water damage.

8. Peek Into the Attic. Head inside and inspect the underside of your roof. Water stains, mold, or musty smells could mean you’ve got a leak. Also check that your attic vents are clear to allow air to circulate and moisture to escape.

9. Take Photos. Snap pictures of anything that looks questionable. These will come in handy if you need to call a contractor—or if an insurance claim is necessary.

10. Schedule a Pro Inspection. Even if everything looks good, a professional inspection once a year is a smart move. Pros know where to look for hidden issues and can help extend the life of your roof with early fixes.

Spring is the season for fresh starts and smart maintenance. Your roof worked hard all winter. Give it the attention it deserves this spring so it can keep doing its job all year long. A little maintenance now means fewer surprises later.

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

Decorate for the Holidays Safely

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and decking the halls. While outdoor holiday lights and decorations can make your home look festive, improper installation can cause costly damage to your roof and siding—or even pose safety risks. Here’s how to create a winter wonderland while protecting your home and loved ones.

1. Choose the Right Decorations

Invest in high-quality, outdoor-rated lights and decorations that can withstand winter weather. Look for products with UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories) certifications for safety. LED lights are a great choice since they’re energy-efficient and produce less heat, reducing the risk of fire.

2. Use Clips Instead of Nails or Staples

Avoid using nails, screws, or staples to attach decorations to your roof or siding. These can puncture shingles, create leaks, or damage vinyl siding. Instead, opt for specialized plastic clips designed for holiday lights. These clips securely fasten to gutters, shingles, or siding without leaving marks or causing damage.

3. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters First

Before starting your holiday decorating, inspect your roof and gutters for any signs of damage. Clear out leaves and dirt to prevent clogging and ice dams over the winter. If you already have the ladder out, it’s a great opportunity to get cleaning and decorating done in one shot. 

4. Distribute Weight Evenly

When hanging larger decorations, such as inflatables or heavy ornaments, distribute their weight evenly across your roof or yard. Avoid placing them directly on shingles, as the added weight can cause cracking or shifting. Instead, consider ground-based options, such as secured stakes or platforms.

5. Be Mindful of Power Sources

Overloading electrical outlets or running extension cords improperly can lead to short circuits or even fires. Use weatherproof outdoor extension cords and plug them into grounded outlets with GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) protection. Keep cords off walkways to prevent tripping hazards and secure them with outdoor-rated tape.

6. Work Safely at Heights

If you need to use a ladder, make safety a priority. Ensure your ladder is stable, positioned on level ground, and tall enough to reach your working area without overextending. Use a spotter for added stability, and never decorate alone in case of emergencies.

7. Protect Your Siding

Avoid using adhesives or mounting hardware that could peel paint or leave residue on your siding. Instead, try temporary, damage-free options such as suction cup hooks or magnetic clips for attaching wreaths and garlands. Always check product labels to ensure compatibility with your siding material.

8. Take Decorations Down Promptly

While it’s tempting to leave decorations up into the new year, prolonged exposure to winter weather can cause wear and tear. Plan to remove everything shortly after the holidays to prevent damage.

9. Store Decorations Properly

Once the season ends, store your decorations in a cool, dry place to prolong their lifespan. Wrap lights loosely to avoid tangling, and label storage bins for easy access next year.

With these tips, you can safely decorate your home for the holidays while protecting your roof, siding, and family. Happy holidays!

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

Add a Roof Inspection to Your Fall To-Do List

Your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home, yet many homeowners don’t think about it until there’s a problem. That’s why I recommend conducting a thorough roof inspection twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. If there are any issues now, the cold and snow of winter could turn a small problem into a major headache.

Start with a Visual Check

Take a good look at your roof. Do the shingles appear to be in good shape? Is there any sagging or discoloration? Dark spots on the exterior or ceiling cracks and yellowing inside your home can be red flags signaling roof deterioration. Addressing these issues early can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Consider the Age of Your Roof

The lifespan of most roofs is around 20 years, but that can vary depending on the quality of installation, insulation, and ventilation. A well-installed roof with proper insulation and ventilation can last longer, but if your roof is approaching or has surpassed the 20-year mark, it’s time to consider a replacement. This is especially important if you’ve recently bought your home or are planning to purchase one. Knowing the age of the roof can help you plan for future maintenance or replacement.

Check for Shingle Damage

Are your shingles curling, splitting, or falling off? This kind of wear and tear often comes with age and exposure to the elements. Damaged shingles make your roof more vulnerable to leaks, which can lead to significant damage inside and outside your home. Look at where your downspouts deposit water—if you notice a lot of granules on the ground, it’s a sign that your shingles are deteriorating and may need to be replaced.

Watch for Moss and Mold

Moss or mold growth on your roof can be more than just a cosmetic issue. While it might be something a good cleaning can fix, it could also indicate trapped moisture and rotting plywood beneath the shingles. A professional inspection can help you determine if it’s a simple cleaning job or if more extensive repairs are needed.

Inspect Your Ceilings for Water Damage

If you notice yellowish-brown stains or cracks on your ceilings, it could be a sign of water damage coming from your roof. This is an issue you don’t want to ignore. Leaks tend to worsen over time, leading to more extensive and costly damage. Addressing them early can prevent a minor issue from becoming a major one.

Get a Professional Opinion

If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof, many roofing professionals offer free inspections. A qualified roofer can assess your roof’s current state and give you an estimate of how much longer it might last. One of the most common reasons roofs fail prematurely is poor ventilation and insulation, which can lead to early aging and rot. A good roofer will explain your options and help you make the best decision for your home.

If you need a roof inspection or any home improvement advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. A little preventative maintenance now can save you a lot of time, money, and stress 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 visitwww.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.