Spring is the sweet spot for roof inspections and repairs.
The milder weather makes it easier to work around your home, whether you’re doing it yourself or calling in professionals. Unlike the harsh cold of winter or the scorching Bakersfield summer heat, spring gives you the perfect balance.
Plus, the lower humidity levels are crucial—high humidity can sneak in moisture while you’re making repairs, setting your roof up for future problems.
Winter storms can wreak havoc on your roof, but the damage isn’t always obvious. That’s why this season is so important. You can catch and fix minor issues now before they turn into major, costly headaches later in the year.
(1) Check the field: The heartbeat of your roof
The “field” is roofing lingo for the central, broad area of your roof. This is where most of the wear and tear happens over time. After a long winter, your roof might have missing or loose shingles, signs of water pooling, or areas where the material is degrading.
Even one missing shingle can create an entry point for leaks, which can snowball into much bigger problems.
Don’t just look for physical damage—inspect for discoloration, algae, or fungus. These aren’t just cosmetic issues; they can eat away at your roof’s underlayment and weaken its structure over time.
If you spot something concerning, don’t just brush it off.
It might look minor now, but small issues compound fast when it comes to roofs.
(2) Membrane splits: What you need to know
If you’ve got a flat or rubber roof, this section’s for you. Roof membranes are designed to provide a watertight barrier, but they’re not invincible.
The freeze-thaw cycles from winter, standing water, or plain old wear and tear can cause splits and blisters in the membrane. Left unchecked, these cracks can let water seep into your roof deck and eventually into your home.
Think of membranes like the skin of your roof—they need to stay intact to keep everything underneath protected. While small splits can sometimes be patched, larger or widespread damage usually calls for professional intervention.
(3) Inspect flashings: Your roof’s defense system
Flashings might not sound glamorous, but they’re one of the most critical parts of your roof.
These metal strips cover joints and seams where water could otherwise sneak in—think around skylights, chimneys, and vent pipes.
Winter weather can be particularly brutal on flashings, causing rust, bending, or even complete detachment.
During your spring inspection, look closely at these areas. Rust spots, gaps, or loose flashings are red flags. If water can sneak through the joints, it can damage your roof’s deck and the interior of your home.
Replacing or repairing damaged flashings now can save you the headache of dealing with leaks during Bakersfield’s next big rainstorm.
(4) Don’t forget soffits and fascias
Your roof isn’t just shingles. Soffits (those panels under the roof’s edge) and fascias (the horizontal boards behind your gutters) play a huge role in ventilation and protection.
Soffits help circulate air in your attic, reducing heat buildup and moisture. Fascias provide a sturdy base for your gutters and shield the edges of your roof from water damage.
Check for cracks, holes, or areas where the wood looks soft. Mold is another big sign that something’s wrong.
If you spot damage, act fast.
(5) Clean and inspect your gutters
Gutters might not seem like part of your roof, but they’re essential to its health. During winter, they collect debris like leaves, dirt, and even small branches. A clogged gutter doesn’t just overflow—it can cause water to back up onto your roof and seep into areas it shouldn’t.
Grab a sturdy ladder, scoop out any debris, and rinse your gutters with a hose. While you’re at it, shake the gutters gently. If you hear a rattling sound, it could mean that granules from your shingles have washed into the gutter—a telltale sign that your roof’s protective layer is wearing down.
(6) Inspect vents and chimneys
Vents and chimneys are often overlooked during roof inspections, but they’re common trouble spots. Check for cracks in the caulking or sealant around these structures. Over time, sealant can dry out and crack, creating gaps where water can seep in.
Replace any cracked or missing sealant to keep these areas watertight.
Chimneys can also suffer from cracked mortar or loose bricks, especially after a wet and cold winter. While you’re inspecting, make sure your vent pipes aren’t clogged with debris or nests—clear airflow is just as important as keeping water out.
Safety first, always
Let’s be real—getting up on your roof can be risky, even in ideal weather. If you’re not comfortable climbing a ladder or walking on a sloped surface, call in a professional. Even seasoned DIYers know when it’s time to bring in the pros.
Spring is the perfect season for roof inspections, and most contractors aren’t as busy as they’ll be later in the year.
If you want to make sure your roof is ready for Bakersfield’s next storm season, give us a call. We offer thorough inspections and affordable repairs to keep your home safe and sound. Don’t wait until small issues turn into big problems—schedule your spring roof checkup today.
Drip edge
Roof flashing
Sealants
Foot traffic and warranties
During a re-roof, workers are moving around constantly, and sometimes that leads to accidental damage. Keep an eye out for excessive footprints, leftover debris, or any other signs of carelessness. A good roofing crew will clean up daily and notify you immediately if something gets damaged.
Now, let’s talk about warranties...
Even with the best tips, nothing beats the peace of mind a solid warranty provides.
Be sure to understand what’s included—and more importantly, what’s not. Ask specific questions about exclusions and whether regular maintenance is required to keep the warranty valid.
Keep in mind that craftsmanship and manufacturer warranties are separate. The manufacturer warranty covers your shingles, while the craftsmanship warranty comes from the contractor.
If you’ve chosen a specific shingle, make sure your contractor is a certified installer for that brand. Any reputable roofing company should back their work with at least a 10-year warranty.
Roof replacements are a big investment, and mistakes can happen during the process. A good warranty ensures your investment is protected and saves you from unexpected costs later.
If you’re planning a roofing project, these tips will help you feel more confident managing the process. Got questions or ready to book a consultation? Reach out to us—we’re happy to inspect your roof, answer your questions, and provide a detailed, no-hidden-cost quote.
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