A well-maintained roof can last 5–10 years longer than a neglected one. In Texas, heat, UV exposure, and severe weather create specific maintenance priorities. Here are five tasks you should do every year.
1. Clean your gutters (twice a year: spring and fall) Clogged gutters trap moisture against the fascia and can cause water to back up under the shingles at the eaves. In winter, standing water in gutters can freeze and expand, causing ice dams that lift shingles. Clean gutters in October before freeze season and again in April after spring pollen falls.
2. Inspect and reseal all penetration points Every pipe, vent, skylight, and chimney that passes through your roof is a potential leak point. The sealant (caulk, pitch pan, or lead boot) around these areas degrades faster than the shingles themselves. Walk around your home after a heavy rain and look for water stains on interior ceilings near these penetrations. A tube of roofing sealant is a $10 fix; a water-damaged rafter system is not.
3. Trim overhanging tree branches Branches that hang over the roof scrape granules from shingles on windy days and deposit debris that traps moisture. In a storm, they become projectiles. Keep branches trimmed back at least 6 feet from the roof surface.
4. Check your attic for proper ventilation and signs of moisture Poor attic ventilation traps heat and humidity that degrade roofing materials from the inside out. Signs of a problem: dark staining on the underside of the decking, frost in winter, or an attic that is noticeably hotter than expected. You should have approximately 1 square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of attic floor area.
5. Schedule a professional inspection after any significant hailstorm Hail damage is often invisible from the ground and develops slowly—cracked granule surfaces let UV rays accelerate aging for months before a leak appears. A post-storm inspection is typically free and takes less than 30 minutes. If damage is found, you have documentation for an insurance claim. If no damage is found, you have peace of mind.
PCG Contractors offers free annual inspections for Texas homeowners. We are not looking to create business—we are looking to help you avoid expensive surprises.