Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist: What to Do After Winter
Properly maintaining your roof after winter can help prevent costly repairs and keep your home safe and cozy

If you're a homeowner in Western Mass., you know how harsh our winters can be. As homeowners ourselves, we get it. From snowstorms to freezing temperatures, your roof takes a beating. But now that spring is around the corner, it's time to show your roof a little TLC. Properly maintaining your roof after winter can help prevent costly repairs and keep your home safe and cozy.

To help you, we put together a Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist to help you get started. Let's dive in!


1. Inspect for Winter Damage

First, you'll want to inspect your roof for any visible damage that might have occurred during the winter. Snow and ice can cause shingles to lift, crack, or even break off. Look for:

  • Missing or damaged shingles: Ice dams, snow buildup, or high winds could have pulled shingles off or caused them to crack. If you notice any, they'll need to be replaced.

  • Granule loss: Shingles can lose granules over time due to age or ice damage. Check for piles of granules in your gutters or around the base of your home.

  • Cracked flashing: Flashing, the metal that seals areas where the roof meets walls, chimneys, or skylights, can crack or lift over the winter, leading to leaks later on.

If you spot any of these issues, contacting a professional roofer like Sexton Roofing and Siding is essential to get them fixed promptly.


2. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Winter weather can leave your gutters clogged with debris, ice, and leaves. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up, leading to leaks and even water damage inside your home. To prevent this, clean your gutters and downspouts thoroughly. If you're uncomfortable doing this yourself, call us, and we'd be happy to help!


Water must flow freely from your roof and away from your home to avoid damaging your foundation and landscaping.


3. Check for Ice Dams

Ice dams are a common issue for homes in Western Massachusetts. When snow melts on your roof, the water can freeze at the edge, forming an ice dam. This dam can trap water and lead to leaks in your home. After the winter season, check the eaves and gutters for any signs of ice dams.


If you find any, taking care of them is essential. A professional roofer can help remove ice dams safely and offer advice on preventing them next winter.


4. Examine Attic Ventilation and Insulation

Proper attic ventilation is key to preventing ice dams and other roof issues. Poor ventilation can lead to heat buildup, which melts the snow on your roof, causing the dreaded ice dams. Also, check your attic insulation to make sure it's in good condition and properly installed.


If your attic insulation is inadequate, you could be wasting energy—and your home could be at risk for moisture buildup and mold.


5. Trim Overhanging Branches

Spring is the perfect time to trim any trees or branches that are hanging over your roof. Winter storms and high winds can bring down branches that can damage your shingles or gutter system. Trimming branches now can prevent future damage and keep your roof looking great.


6. Look for Signs of Leaks Inside

Sometimes, the damage on your roof isn't immediately visible from the outside. Check the ceilings and walls of your attic and upper floors for signs of water stains or discoloration, which could indicate a roof leak. Don't forget to check areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents, which are common spots for leaks to develop.


If you find water damage, it's time to call a professional roofer for a more thorough inspection.


7. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

While DIY inspections are a great start, having a professional roofer like Sexton Roofing and Siding take a closer look is always a good idea. A licensed roofer can spot potential issues that may not be immediately apparent and ensure your roof is in top condition for the upcoming seasons.


Getting a spring inspection is especially important if your roof is older or if you haven't had an inspection in a while. A professional can provide peace of mind and help catch problems early before they become expensive repairs.


8. Keep Your Roof Clean

Winter can leave your roof covered with debris, moss, and algae. Spring is the perfect time to clean your roof well (with help from a pro). Keeping your roof clean can help prevent long-term damage and keep it looking its best.


9. Consider Roof Upgrades

If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or if you've had ongoing issues, spring is a great time to consider upgrades. Whether you're considering new shingles, better insulation, or even solar panels, Sexton Roofing and Siding can help you explore your options. A new roof can boost your home's curb appeal and energy efficiency, both of which are worth considering.


10. Take Care of Your Siding and Exterior

While you're checking your roof, remember to check your siding, gutters, and downspouts. Winter can be tough on your home's exterior, and spring is the time to give everything a good check-up. Repairing or cleaning your siding and gutters can keep your home in great shape for the warmer months ahead.


Spring is a fresh start, and taking care of your roof is an important part of preparing your home for warmer weather. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can extend the life of your roof and prevent costly problems in the future. Sexton Roofing and Siding is here to help with roof maintenance needs.


Don't hesitate to call us for a spring roof inspection or if you have any questions about roof maintenance. We're here to ensure your roof stays strong and reliable for many years to come.

Here's to a safe and sunny spring season ahead!


Sexton Roofing and Siding
 Proudly serves Western Massachusetts for all your roofing, siding, and home improvement needs.

fall roof maintenance, Western Massachusetts roofing, roof inspection Western MA, gutter cleaning
October 16, 2025
Prepare your roof for winter with these essential fall maintenance tips from Sexton Roofing. Learn how to clean gutters, inspect shingles, and prevent ice dams in Western Massachusetts.
September 16, 2025
If you’re thinking about selling your home, you’re probably making a list of projects to boost curb appeal and home value — new paint, landscaping touch-ups, maybe a bathroom update. But what about your roof? At Sexton Roofing & Siding, one of the most common questions we get from homeowners around Western Massachusetts is: “Should I replace my roof before putting my house on the market?” The short answer? It depends. Let’s break down when it makes sense, what buyers are looking for, and whether the investment pays off in the long run. Why Your Roof Matters to Buyers Your roof is one of the first things potential buyers notice — and it can make or break their impression of your home. Even if the interior looks beautiful, an aging or visibly damaged roof raises immediate concerns about potential repairs and extra costs down the road. A new or well-maintained roof signals: The home has been cared for Buyers won’t need to budget for a costly replacement right away Protection from leaks, weather damage, and energy inefficiency In competitive real estate markets like ours in Western Mass, that peace of mind can be a significant selling point. What’s the ROI on a New Roof? According to national real estate data, replacing a roof before selling can offer a return on investment (ROI) of about 55-70%. However, its actual value lies in making your home more marketable and selling it faster. Benefits of replacing your roof before selling : Higher asking price potential More buyer interest and showings Fewer issues flagged during home inspections Smoother negotiations (and fewer last-minute repair credits) Faster closing time In some cases, sellers have recouped even more than average, especially if the old roof was in poor shape or if buyers were deciding between multiple listings. When Should You Replace the Roof Before Selling? Consider a replacement if: Your roof is 20+ years old Shingles are missing, curling, or visibly damaged There’s evidence of leaks or water stains in the attic or ceilings Buyers in your neighborhood expect newer, move-in-ready homes On the other hand, if your roof is in good condition with plenty of life left, a professional inspection and minor repairs may be enough to reassure buyers and satisfy home inspection requirements. Pro Tip: Highlight a New Roof in Your Listing If you do invest in a new roof, make sure your real estate agent features it prominently in your home’s listing description and during showings. “New roof ” is a significant selling point that buyers love to see — and it can help set your property apart in a crowded market. Thinking About Selling? Let’s Check Your Roof First. Before listing your home, it’s worth getting a professional roof inspection to assess its condition and explore your options. At Sexton Roofing & Siding, we offer honest, pressure-free advice to homeowners throughout Western Massachusetts. Whether you need a simple repair, a roof tune-up, or a complete replacement, we’ll help you make the best decision for your home and your budget. Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection and get your home market-ready with confidence!
September 5, 2025
A Swift Solution to an Urgent Problem: Full Roof Replacement Success Story
Show More
fall roof maintenance, Western Massachusetts roofing, roof inspection Western MA, gutter cleaning
October 16, 2025
Prepare your roof for winter with these essential fall maintenance tips from Sexton Roofing. Learn how to clean gutters, inspect shingles, and prevent ice dams in Western Massachusetts.
September 16, 2025
If you’re thinking about selling your home, you’re probably making a list of projects to boost curb appeal and home value — new paint, landscaping touch-ups, maybe a bathroom update. But what about your roof? At Sexton Roofing & Siding, one of the most common questions we get from homeowners around Western Massachusetts is: “Should I replace my roof before putting my house on the market?” The short answer? It depends. Let’s break down when it makes sense, what buyers are looking for, and whether the investment pays off in the long run. Why Your Roof Matters to Buyers Your roof is one of the first things potential buyers notice — and it can make or break their impression of your home. Even if the interior looks beautiful, an aging or visibly damaged roof raises immediate concerns about potential repairs and extra costs down the road. A new or well-maintained roof signals: The home has been cared for Buyers won’t need to budget for a costly replacement right away Protection from leaks, weather damage, and energy inefficiency In competitive real estate markets like ours in Western Mass, that peace of mind can be a significant selling point. What’s the ROI on a New Roof? According to national real estate data, replacing a roof before selling can offer a return on investment (ROI) of about 55-70%. However, its actual value lies in making your home more marketable and selling it faster. Benefits of replacing your roof before selling : Higher asking price potential More buyer interest and showings Fewer issues flagged during home inspections Smoother negotiations (and fewer last-minute repair credits) Faster closing time In some cases, sellers have recouped even more than average, especially if the old roof was in poor shape or if buyers were deciding between multiple listings. When Should You Replace the Roof Before Selling? Consider a replacement if: Your roof is 20+ years old Shingles are missing, curling, or visibly damaged There’s evidence of leaks or water stains in the attic or ceilings Buyers in your neighborhood expect newer, move-in-ready homes On the other hand, if your roof is in good condition with plenty of life left, a professional inspection and minor repairs may be enough to reassure buyers and satisfy home inspection requirements. Pro Tip: Highlight a New Roof in Your Listing If you do invest in a new roof, make sure your real estate agent features it prominently in your home’s listing description and during showings. “New roof ” is a significant selling point that buyers love to see — and it can help set your property apart in a crowded market. Thinking About Selling? Let’s Check Your Roof First. Before listing your home, it’s worth getting a professional roof inspection to assess its condition and explore your options. At Sexton Roofing & Siding, we offer honest, pressure-free advice to homeowners throughout Western Massachusetts. Whether you need a simple repair, a roof tune-up, or a complete replacement, we’ll help you make the best decision for your home and your budget. Contact us today to schedule your roof inspection and get your home market-ready with confidence!
Show More