Extend the life of your roof through routine maintenance

Blistered shingles

1. Inspect for and repair damage

Contact your insurance representative as soon as you can. Provide a general description of the damage and have your policy number handy if possible. Write down the adjuster’s name, phone number and work schedule as soon as you have those details.

For shingle roofs, look for shingles that are loose, cracked, broken, missing, buckling, curling, blistering, or worn down.
Check wood for rot or insect infestation.
Check metal areas for rust.

2. Trim trees

Remove tree branches that overhang the roof. This will prevent damage from rubbing or falling on the roof, and limit leaves clogging gutters.

3. Ensure gutters are secure

If gutters are loose or ready to fall down, have them repaired..

4. Remove debris from the roof

Remove dirt, loose objects, branches, and other plant material from your roof.
Consider hiring a professional to perform this service.

5. Look for and repair loose or missing flashing

Check for and address any loose or missing pieces of flashing. Loose or ill-fitted flashing can cause roof cover failure and water intrusion during high-wind storms.
Be sure to regularly inspect flashing for any issues before and after storms.

6. Inspect for and repair leaks

Look for these signs of a leak:

Leaks inside the attic
Water stains on roof decking (around chimneys, vents, pipes, and valleys)
Discoloured roofing deck, rafters, or trusses
Water stains on the ceiling
Cracked wall or ceiling paint
Peeling wallpaper

7. Inspect and seal roof penetrations

Check around chimneys, pipes, skylights, exhaust fans, vents, and air conditioning units.

Are penetrations well sealed and tight?
Are there gaps and/or signs of missing sealant?

8. Inspect and repair vents

For off-ridge vents:

Do vents wiggle back and forth?
Are they well attached?
Are there screws attaching turbines or caps?

For ridge vents:

Are vents tightly screwed down?
If nails are used, are they are properly attached?