Inspection and Maintenance Advice for Your Roof
Regular roof inspections catch small problems before they become expensive disasters. Here’s a simple maintenance plan for Southeast Iowa homeowners.
When to Inspect
- Spring (after winter thaw) – Check for ice dam damage, loose shingles, and granule loss.
- Fall (before winter snow) – Clear gutters, trim branches, and check flashing.
- After any severe storm – Hail, high winds, or derecho – schedule a drone inspection.
What to Look For (From the Ground – No Ladders)
- Missing, curled, or cracked shingles
- Granules in gutters or downspouts
- Dark streaks or moss growth (traps moisture)
- Sagging areas on the roof deck
- Rust or gaps around chimney flashing and vents
Inside Your Attic
Go up with a flashlight. Look for:
- Daylight coming through roof boards
- Water stains or damp insulation
- Mold or musty smells
- Frost on nails in winter (indicates poor ventilation)
DIY Maintenance You Can Do
- Clean gutters twice a year.
- Trim branches away from the roof.
- Remove leaves and debris from valleys and low‑slope areas.
- Check caulking around skylights and vents – reseal if cracked.
When to Call a Professional
If you see any signs of damage, don’t climb up yourself. Ladders are dangerous, and walking on a roof can make hidden problems worse. Schedule a free drone inspection instead. We’ll fly over, capture high‑resolution photos, and review them with you. No ladder, no guesswork, no charge.

