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.

January 3, 2026
Improve your home’s winter insulation in Western Massachusetts with energy-efficient windows that reduce drafts, heat loss, and heating costs.
November 24, 2025
How Long Should Your Roof Really Last in Massachusetts Weather? Let’s be honest, no one thinks about their roof until there’s a leak, a missing shingle, or a surprise brown stain on the ceiling. But in a place like Western Massachusetts, where snow, wind, and summer heat hit hard, your roof is working overtime. So, how long should your roof actually last in our climate? The honest answer: it depends. But here’s what you should know so you can plan, avoid surprises, and protect your home (and wallet).
November 19, 2025
As this year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on all the things, and people, I’m grateful for. It’s been a year full of growth, change, and meaningful moments, both big and small. And honestly, I couldn’t be prouder or more thankful for the incredible team and community that surrounds us. Welcoming New Team Members One of the biggest highlights of the year has been welcoming new faces to our team. Each person has brought their own spark, new energy, fresh ideas, and a genuine excitement for what we do. Watching them find their footing, set goals, and start achieving them has been such a joy. It reminds me why building a strong, supportive team matters so much. Growth, Learning, and Opportunity I’m also thankful for the ways we’ve continued to grow together. We’ve invested in training, created clearer paths for career development, and made space for people to stretch into new roles. Seeing that effort pay off, in confidence, new skills, and a stronger sense of purpose,is incredibly rewarding. Celebrating Milestones This year was special for a few big reasons. We celebrated our very first team member retirement. We also had our first team member transition roles, which was such a great reminder that growth sometimes means taking a new direction within the same family. Moments like these remind me just how much heart our team has. Our Clients and Projects I can’t say enough about our clients. We’re so lucky to work with people who trust us, challenge us, and make our work meaningful. The projects we’ve taken on this year have been exciting, creative, and sometimes even a little daring, exactly the kind that keep us inspired and moving forward. New Connections and Community I’m also incredibly thankful for all the new connections we’ve made this year, from new friends and professional partners to the amazing vendor partners who help make what we do possible every single day. It takes a village to do great work, and we’re so fortunate to have such dependable, talented, and kind people in our corner. And beyond work, I’m grateful for the community we’re part of, for the friendships that have grown stronger, the new ones that have blossomed, and the genuine sense of connection that makes all of this so fulfilling. On a Personal Note On a personal level, I’m endlessly thankful for our families, the ones who cheer us on, keep us grounded, and love us through it all. And to our wider community, thank you for being such an important part of our journey. You remind us what we’re working toward and who we’re doing it for. Looking Ahead As we head into a new year, I’m filled with gratitude, for our team, our clients, our partners, our friends, and our families. This year has reminded me that success isn’t just about what we achieve; it’s about who we achieve it with . Here’s to carrying that spirit of thankfulness into the year ahead, and to all the amazing things yet to come.
Show More
January 3, 2026
Improve your home’s winter insulation in Western Massachusetts with energy-efficient windows that reduce drafts, heat loss, and heating costs.
November 24, 2025
How Long Should Your Roof Really Last in Massachusetts Weather? Let’s be honest, no one thinks about their roof until there’s a leak, a missing shingle, or a surprise brown stain on the ceiling. But in a place like Western Massachusetts, where snow, wind, and summer heat hit hard, your roof is working overtime. So, how long should your roof actually last in our climate? The honest answer: it depends. But here’s what you should know so you can plan, avoid surprises, and protect your home (and wallet).
Show More