Living in the Ozarks means experiencing it all: rain, hail, high winds, ice storms, and the blazing summer sun. Your home’s roofing system quietly endures every season, protecting your family from the elements. But like any hardworking part of your home, it needs regular attention to perform at its best.

At Advanced Restorations, we believe in protecting your investment year-round. That’s why we’ve created this seasonal roof maintenance guide tailored to Missouri homeowners. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or prefer to leave it to the professionals, this checklist will help you stay one step ahead of costly repairs.

Fall & Spring Roof Maintenance

Spring and fall are ideal times to inspect and prepare your roof, before and after the harshest weather of the year.

Clean Your Gutters

Leaves, pine needles, and debris can clog gutters and cause water to back up under shingles, damaging your roof and siding. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and securely attached.

Remove Roof Debris

Debris buildup can trap moisture, leading to faster shingle deterioration. Sweep or blow off leaves and branches gently, never use tools that could scrape away protective granules.

Trim Tree Branches

Overhanging limbs can scratch shingles and drop debris during windstorms. Trim back branches to prevent direct contact with the roof or gutters.

Treat for Moss or Algae

Dark streaks and green patches aren’t just cosmetic issues, they signal moisture problems. Use an approved treatment or ask us about algae-resistant shingle options if your roof is due for replacement.

Inspect Flashing and Penetrations

Flashing is your roof’s defense at joints and edges, chimneys, skylights, vent pipes. Rust, cracked caulking, or missing fasteners can all lead to water intrusion.

Check for Shingle Damage

Look for curling, cracked, or missing shingles. Also, check your downspouts for a buildup of granules, which indicates aging shingles.

Review Your Attic and Ventilation

After a heavy rain, inspect your attic for water stains, mold, or poor airflow. Proper ventilation helps prevent ice dams and reduces the chance of condensation buildup.

Winter Roof Maintenance

In Missouri, winter can be tough on roofing systems. These tasks help prevent seasonal damage during colder months.

Watch for Ice Dams

When snow melts and refreezes at the roof’s edge, it can create a dam that pushes water under your shingles. This is often a sign of poor attic insulation or ventilation. Our team can help evaluate and resolve these issues.

Clear Snow Buildup (Safely)

Heavy snow can strain your roofing system. Use a roof rake from the ground if needed, but never climb onto a snow-covered roof. If you’re unsure, call us for an inspection.

Check Gutters and Icicles

Long icicles or dripping gutters may indicate clogged or poorly draining systems. Double-check for ice buildup and make sure downspouts are functioning properly.

Look for Interior Signs of Leaks

Keep an eye out for stains on ceilings, damp insulation, or musty smells, especially after a snowstorm. These are all signs your roof might be leaking.

Smart Year-Round Practices

These tasks can be done anytime, but they’re important for the long-term health of your roofing system.

Avoid Walking on the Roof

Walking on asphalt shingles can dislodge granules or cause cracking. Leave inspections and repairs to licensed professionals who have the proper equipment and experience.

Ensure Proper Vent Discharge

Make sure bathroom fans and dryer vents lead outdoors, not into the attic. Trapped moisture from these vents is a common cause of attic mold.

Redirect Downspouts Away from Lower Roof Sections

Avoid allowing water to pour onto the same section of roofing over and over again. Extend or redirect downspouts as needed to protect shingles from excess wear.

Need Help with a Roof Checkup?

Some of these tasks can be done safely on your own. Others, like flashing repairs, attic evaluations, or winter inspections are best handled by a licensed roofing contractor.

At Advanced Restorations, we provide:

● Free annual roof inspections

● Post-storm documentation and damage reports

● Full repair and replacement services

● Honest advice from certified field supervisors

● Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor warranties

Let’s Keep Your Roof in Peak Condition

Your roof protects everything underneath it. With a little routine care, you can keep it strong and weather-ready for years to come. If you’re ever unsure about what you’re seeing or you’d simply like peace of mind, reach out to the Pink Shirt Roofers at Advanced Restorations.