DIY Roof Maintenance: What You Can and Shouldn't Do

Maintaining your roof is crucial for preserving your home’s integrity and extending the life of your roof. While some maintenance tasks are perfect for a DIY approach, others are best left to professionals. Here’s a guide to help you navigate what you can safely handle and what you should avoid when it comes to DIY roof maintenance.

What You Can Do

1. Regular Inspections

Conducting regular roof inspections can help you catch potential issues early. Look for:

  • Missing, cracked, or curling shingles

  • Piles of granules in gutters (a sign of shingle wear)

  • Rust spots on flashing

  • Moss or algae growth

  • Debris accumulation

Inspecting your roof twice a year, in spring and fall, is ideal. Use binoculars or a drone to get a close look without climbing up.

2. Cleaning Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and leaks. Ensure your gutters are clean and free-flowing by:

  • Removing leaves, twigs, and debris

  • Flushing gutters with water to check for proper flow

  • Installing gutter guards to minimize future clogging

3. Moss and Algae Removal

Moss and algae can cause damage if left untreated. To remove them:

  • Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub off moss

  • Apply a 50/50 mixture of water and bleach with a garden sprayer to kill algae

  • Rinse thoroughly with water after allowing the mixture to sit for 20-30 minutes

4. Minor Shingle Repairs

If you’re comfortable on a ladder, replacing a few damaged shingles is manageable:

  • Slide a flat pry bar under the damaged shingle to lift it

  • Remove the nails and slide out the shingle

  • Place the new shingle and secure it with roofing nails

  • Apply a bit of roofing cement to seal the edges

What You Shouldn’t Do

1. Major Repairs

Complex issues like extensive leaks, structural damage, or large-scale shingle replacement should be handled by professionals. Attempting major repairs without the right skills and equipment can worsen the problem and pose significant safety risks.

2. Walking on a Steep Roof

Steep roofs are dangerous and require specialized safety equipment. If your roof has a steep pitch, it’s best to avoid walking on it and call a professional instead.

3. Handling Electrical Components

Roofs often have electrical elements like solar panels or wiring for attic fans. If your maintenance involves working around these components, it’s safer to hire an expert to avoid the risk of electrical shock.

Safety Tips for DIY Roof Maintenance

  1. Use Proper Ladder Safety

  • Ensure the ladder is stable and placed on a level surface

  • Maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) at all times

  • Never stand on the top rungs

  1. Wear Appropriate Footwear

  • Use shoes with rubber soles for better grip and stability

  • Avoid loose clothing that could catch on roofing materials or equipment

  1. Check Weather Conditions

  • Perform maintenance on dry, calm days

  • Avoid working on the roof during or after rain, snow, or when it’s windy

  1. Use Safety Gear

  • Wear a harness if you must walk on the roof

  • Use a roof anchor and secure it properly

  • Consider using a roofing helmet to protect against falls and head injuries

  1. Have a Buddy System

  • Have someone on the ground to assist and call for help if needed

  • Avoid working alone, especially on higher roofs

When to Call the Professionals

Even with the best intentions, some roof maintenance tasks are best left to the experts. Call a professional if you:

  • Notice significant damage or leaks

  • Feel unsure about any aspect of the repair

  • Encounter hazardous conditions such as mold, rot, or extensive water damage

Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your roof, but safety should always be your top priority. By knowing your limits and when to call for professional help, you can ensure your roof remains in excellent condition without putting yourself at risk.

David Matthews