Ontario Seasonal Roof Maintenance Checklist — ROOFNOW™ (2025 Edition)

Ontario weather puts year-round stress on roofing systems. This seasonal checklist shows homeowners exactly what to inspect and when to do it — reducing leaks, preventing ice dams, and extending roof lifespan.

1. Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist (March–May)

Spring reveals winter damage. Inspect the following:

• Check for shingle lifting or missing shingles from winter storms
• Look for ice dam staining along eaves
• Inspect gutters for granules and debris
• Check soffits for frost-related blockages
• Look for damaged ridge caps
• Inspect siding for water overflow marks
• Check attic for frost melt stains
• Ensure downspouts are reconnected after winter
• Remove leftover winter debris from valleys

2. Summer Roof Maintenance Checklist (June–August)

Heat + UV accelerate shingle aging. Inspect during dry days:

• Look for curling or cracking shingles
• Check attic temperature (extreme heat causes premature aging)
• Inspect flashing for expansion-related gaps
• Check for mold or musty smells in attic
• Inspect vents to ensure proper airflow
• Look for soft spots in roof deck from spring moisture
• Check for sun-faded or bald asphalt patches
• Inspect sealants around plumbing vents

3. Fall Roof Maintenance Checklist (September–November)

Fall prep prevents winter failures. Before freezing temperatures:

• Clean gutters and remove all leaves
• Inspect valleys for leaf buildup
• Check attic for insulation gaps or warm air leaks
• Inspect soffits for airflow blockages
• Check shingles for brittleness
• Ensure ridge vents are clear and unobstructed
• Check flashing around chimneys and skylights
• Look for exposed fasteners (metal roofs)
• Confirm downspouts direct water away from foundation

4. Winter Roof Maintenance Checklist (December–February)

Winter is the most dangerous season for Ontario roofs. Inspect from the ground only:

• Watch for ice dams forming along eaves
• Check for heavy snow buildup > 2 feet
• Look for icicles (sign of attic heat loss)
• Check for roof noises during extreme cold (possible expansion issues)
• Inspect indoor ceilings for signs of attic frost melt
• Check attic monthly for condensation or frost
• Monitor vents for frost blockage
• Ensure no snow is blocking exhaust vents

5. Annual “Once Per Year” Maintenance Checklist

Do these once a year to keep your roof performing properly:

• Perform a full attic inspection
• Check insulation levels (target R60 in Ontario)
• Check every vent (intake + exhaust)
• Inspect every plumbing vent and rubber boot
• Deep clean gutters and downspouts
• Verify no mold, mildew, or wet insulation
• Check all exterior flashing for rust or separation
• Inspect chimney mortar and chimney caps

6. Early Warning Signs Homeowners Should Never Ignore

• Yellow ceiling stains (attic frost melt)
• Dripping during thaws (ventilation problem)
• Soft spots in the attic
• Shingle granule piles
• Sudden energy bill spikes
• Large icicles every winter
• Cold bedrooms above attic areas

7. When You Should Call a Roofing Professional

• Any sign of roof sagging or structural movement
• Recurring attic frost problems
• Continuing ice dams after cleaning gutters
• Mold in attic or on roof deck
• Multiple missing shingles after windstorms
• Persistent leaks during heavy rain