Seasonal Roof Maintenance Checklist for New England Homeowners

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against Massachusetts weather — and it faces everything from salty coastal air in Chatham to heavy inland snow in Hanover. The secret to avoiding expensive repairs (or premature replacement) is regular, seasonal maintenance.

A little bit of work four times a year keeps small problems from turning into costly disasters. This guide gives you a step-by-step seasonal checklist tailored to New England conditions, with special notes for South Shore and Cape Cod towns. Spring: Recover from Winter’s Wear and Tear

1. Inspect for Ice Dam Damage

• Look for lifted shingles, split seams, and water stains in the attic.
• Check fascia boards for rot — common in Scituate or Marshfield after nor’easters.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

• Remove leaves, twigs, and leftover ice debris.
• Make sure downspouts direct water 3–4 feet away from the foundation.

3. Examine Flashing and Sealants

• Pay attention to chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes.
• Salt air in Falmouth or Hull can cause faster flashing corrosion.

4. Trim Overhanging Branches

• Spring is the best time to prune before leaves fully grow in Hanover or Norwell.

Summer: Protect from Heat and Storms

1. Check Attic Ventilation

• A hot attic bakes shingles and raises cooling bills.
• Make sure soffit and ridge vents are clear.

2. Look for Sun Damage

• UV exposure in Chatham or Provincetown can fade and weaken shingles.
• Replace cracked or brittle shingles.

3. Prep for Hurricane Season

• Tighten loose flashing.
• Remove debris from the roof to prevent wind-borne projectiles.

4. Inspect Skylights

• Summer storms test skylight seals; re-caulk if needed.

Fall: Get Ready for Winter

1. Final Gutter Cleaning

• Leaves from Quincy, Plymouth, or Barnstable’s trees can clog gutters just before the snow hits.
• Install gutter guards if you struggle with repeat clogs.

2. Inspect Roof Surface

• Replace missing or damaged shingles before snow piles on.
• Check valleys — these are high-risk leak zones.

3. Seal Gaps Against Pests

• Mice and squirrels in Hanover or Sandwich love to enter through loose soffits in fall.

4. Confirm Ice & Water Shield Coverage

• Make sure your eaves and valleys have underlayment protection.

Winter: Monitor and Minimize Damage

1. Watch for Ice Dams

• Use a roof rake to safely clear snow from the first 3–4 feet of the roof.
• Avoid climbing onto the roof — icy surfaces are dangerous.

2. Inspect After Big Storms

• Check for missing shingles or sagging gutters from the ground.
• If you live in a windy area like Hull, inspect more frequently.

3. Address Attic Condensation

• Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens to prevent excess moisture from entering the attic.

4. Schedule Emergency Repairs Quickly

• Even in winter, a roofer can patch critical leaks to prevent interior damage.

Tools & Supplies to Keep Handy Year-Round

• Roof rake
• Sturdy ladder
• Work gloves
• Binoculars (for ground inspections)
• Flashlight (for attic checks)

Signs You Need a Professional

• Repeated leaks after storms.
• Large patches of missing shingles.
• Structural sagging in the roof deck.

Why Seasonal Maintenance Pays Off

• Extends roof lifespan by 5–10 years.
• Keeps energy bills lower.
• Protects home value in competitive markets like the Cape and South Shore.