How to Give Your Roof a Quick End-of-Summer Check-up

Stay ahead of issues, no ladder required!

As summer and humidity reach their peak, the end of summer in Iowa means cooler nights, football season, and pumpkin spice-flavored everything, but it also means it’s time to start thinking about the aftermath of these drastic summer weather conditions your home’s roof has been through. From corn sweat in the Midwest to heavy rainfall, these weather conditions can take a big toll on not just your home’s roof, but your windows, gutters, siding, and even your home’s ventilation. Without these components, your home’s system is disrupted and can lead to costly damages and even higher energy bills. It’s not only harder to keep your home cool in the summer, but difficult to keep your home warm in the winter. It’s always recommended to get your roof inspected at least once a year, but twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, is always good for proactive maintenance.

Of course, we always recommend getting a professional inspection as it is safer and the most effective way to closely inspect your roof, but there are also ways you can inspect your home before giving us a call. And don’t worry, you don’t need to grab a ladder or climb on the roof to do this. In just a few minutes, you can spot early warning signs from the ground or inside your attic. This easy guide will help you avoid costly repairs and protect your home year-round.

Why an end-of-summer roof check matters

Here in Des Moines and across Iowa, summer weather can take a toll. The sun bakes shingles, sudden downpours test your gutters, and thunderstorms can bring hail or falling branches. Even if your roof looks fine at first glance, small problems can hide until they become big (and expensive) headaches. A simple end-of-summer check is part of smart home maintenance in Des Moines. Catching little issues now can save you money, time, and stress later. Plus, it can be a pain having to deal with these issues in the wintertime.

Step 1: Check from the ground

You don’t need a drone or binoculars, just a few minutes to look up from your driveway or yard.

Look for shingle trouble: Missing, cracked, curled, or discolored shingles can be early signs of wear. Dark streaks might indicate algae or moisture damage on your roof, something that might be worth getting a professional look at to prevent further concern.

Spot debris or sagging: Leaves, sticks, or branches can trap water. Notice any sagging spots in the roofline? That’s worth getting cleaned up before the Autumn leaves begin to fall.

Inspect gutters and downspouts: If you can see debris spilling over, rust spots, or gutters pulling away from the house, they’re not doing their job, and your roof can suffer for it. The best thing to do in this case is to call a professional before winter weather begins, as it can cause ice dams, potentially leading to costlier damages in the future.

Step 2: Peek in the attic

Your attic tells a story your shingles can’t. On a sunny day, turn off the lights and check for the following:

Daylight through the roof boards: If light is coming in, water can too. It could be worth getting a professional look to prevent water damage to your property from the outside and the inside.

Water stains or damp spots: Check after heavy rain for fresh marks. This can indicate improper ventilation!

Musty odors: This could signal poor ventilation and perhaps early mold growth, which can not only be hazardous to your home but to the health of those living in the home as well.

Step 3: Document what you see

If you spot anything suspicious, take photos and jot down notes. This helps you monitor changes and makes it easier for roofing professionals to give accurate advice on what to do next.

Step 4: Know when to call the professionals

If your roof check-up reveals:

Missing or broken shingles

Sagging roof areas

Signs of leaks or mold in the attic

… it’s time to call a roof expert. At Andrew’s Roofing Company, we’ve been helping Iowa homeowners protect their largest investment for years. We can perform a full inspection, make repairs, and give you peace of mind heading into the colder months. Doing a quick, no-ladder roof check-up in Iowa before the seasons change is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to care for your home. By taking a few minutes now, you can spot small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. If you’re in Des Moines or the surrounding area and notice anything unusual or just want the reassurance of a professional eye, give Andrew’s Roofing Company a call. We’ll make sure your roof is ready for whatever Iowa weather sends your way!

Have any questions or concerns? Give us a call or submit a form below!