Roof maintenance checklist
for Central Valley.

Why maintenance matters here

The Central Valley is hard on roofs. Summer heat above 100°F makes shingles expand and contract. That causes granule loss over time.

Winter rains then test every seal and flashing joint. Skip regular maintenance and a 25-year roof can fail in 15.

Spring checklist (March–May)

Winter rains are done. Now check what they left behind:

• Gutters and downspouts. Clear debris. Check that water drains freely.
• Flashing. Look around chimneys, vents, skylights, and wall edges.
• Shingles. Look for missing or loose ones. Wind and rain can loosen them.
• Algae or moss. Rare in the Central Valley, but check shaded areas.
• Tree branches. Keep at least 6 feet of clearance from the roof.
• Attic stains. Water marks mean a winter leak got in.

Summer checklist (June–August)

Heat between 100–110°F is your roof’s worst enemy. Focus on these:

• Attic airflow. Attic temps should stay below 120°F. Poor airflow cooks shingles from below.
• Pipe boots and rubber seals. UV and heat break down rubber in 5–8 years.
• Blistering or curling shingles. These are early heat damage signs.
• Granule loss. Granules in your gutters mean shingles are aging fast.
• Insulation. Good insulation cuts heat transfer and lowers cooling bills.

Fall checklist (September–November)

Get your roof ready before the rains return:

• Clean gutters. Leaf buildup causes water backup and wood rot.
• Seal cracks and gaps. Caulk around all roof penetrations.
• Check drainage. Water should flow away from the foundation.
• Schedule a pro check. Catch small problems before the wet season starts.

Winter checklist (December–February)

During the wet season, stay alert:

• Watch for leaks. Check your attic during heavy rain for active drips.
• Keep gutters clear. Storms move debris fast.
• Look for ponding water. Especially on flat or low-slope areas.
• Photograph damage. Photos make insurance claims much easier.

What you can do vs. what needs a pro

You can do ground checks and gutter cleaning yourself. Leave these to a professional:

• Walking on the roof. Fall risk, and hot shingles crack easily.
• Flashing repairs and resealing.
• Pipe boot swap-outs.
• Attic airflow changes.
• Any work on a roof steeper than 6/12 pitch.

We serve Turlock, Modesto, Ceres, and all of Stanislaus County. Two visits a year is the best investment in your roof’s life.

DeHart Roofing maintenance programs

Our roof maintenance service includes a full inspection, minor repairs, and gutter cleaning. You also get a written condition report. It costs far less than an emergency repair. Schedule your visit today.