A roof is one of the most important parts of the home. It is the first line of defense against the elements. Roof systems need to be properly maintained to remain fully functional over their lifespan. There are a lot of things that go into managing a roof properly and it all depends on what stage the roof is in.
Some homeowners choose to save money by skipping roof maintenance, but homeowners should not forget the level of stress and anxiety that comes from having a roof in disarray. The damage that a leaking roof can cause to the structure and safety of a home is immense. Moisture damage is one of the biggest fears of any homeowner as it weakens the home and can spur the growth of dangerous mold and bacteria.
There has also been an increase in roof repairs due to poor craftsmanship and roofing scams, which has led to an increased demand for roof warranties and certifications. That’s why it is important now more than ever for roof contractors and inspectors to be properly trained and certified. A certification backed by the NRCIA brings confidence to homeowners who request the services of these certified contractors.
The integrity and credibility of the roofing industry are at the heart of the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association’s mission. Roofing services can be complex enough, even when done properly and the NRCIA is there to ensure that there’s a high level of professionalism and standardization within the roofing industry.
Your Seasonal Roof Maintenance Checklist
A roof is not a “set it and forget it” system. To maximize the lifespan mentioned above, homeowners should perform—or hire a professional for—a semi-annual inspection. Here is what a comprehensive maintenance plan looks like:
Debris Removal: Leaves, pine needles, and branches trap moisture against shingles. Over time, this creates a “sponge effect” that leads to rot and granule loss.
Gutter Clearing: Clogged gutters cause water to back up under the eave shingles and fascia boards. Ensure downspouts are clear and directing water at least three feet away from the foundation.
Pipe Boot & Flashing Inspection: The most common leak points aren’t the shingles themselves, but the penetrations (vents, chimneys, and skylights). Maintenance involves checking for cracked rubber boots or rusted metal flashing.
Moss and Algae Treatment: While often cosmetic, heavy moss growth can lift shingles and allow water to penetrate. Gentle, professional cleaning (never power washing) is a vital maintenance step.
The Financial Impact: Preventative vs. Reactive
Maintenance is often viewed as an optional expense, but the data suggests otherwise. On average, a proactive maintenance program costs approximately 1% to 3% of the total roof value per year. In contrast, “reactive” repairs—fixing a leak only after it has stained your ceiling—can cost 10x more due to the secondary damage to drywall, insulation, and electrical systems.
Furthermore, many manufacturer warranties are voided if the homeowner cannot provide proof of regular maintenance. Keeping a digital log of your NRCIA inspections ensures that if a product defect occurs, you are fully covered.
Environmental and Energy Benefits
A well-maintained roof also contributes to your home’s energy efficiency. During a maintenance check, an inspector ensures that your attic vents are unobstructed. Proper airflow prevents heat buildup in the summer (reducing AC costs) and prevents ice dams in the winter. By maintaining your roof’s reflectivity and structural integrity, you aren’t just saving the roof—you’re lowering your monthly utility bills.
What Homeowners Need to Know
A homeowner needs to understand all components of their home. Homeowners need to understand the age of their roof and the maintenance schedule it follows. This is the best measure they can take to keep a roof system healthy and functional. Preventative maintenance is always cheaper than reactive repairs.
Homeowners need to ensure that they partner up with the right roofing contractor. Preferably, a contractor that follows a standardized procedure to help clients maximize their roof system’s lifespan.
Maximizing a Roof’s Lifespan
A roof’s lifespan depends on the roofing material used. Composite, asphalt or wood shingles/shake can last between 12 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, with asphalt shingles able to last up to 30 years. Copper or Slate roofs can last upwards of 50 years if properly maintained, meaning all the homeowner should be concerned about is keeping it waterproof and free of leaks. There are additional factors that determine a roof’s lifespan: the product used, the quality of the installation, and maintaining a proper maintenance schedule. That’s why it’s critical to work with a roofing contractor certified by NRCIA who can provide the LeakFREE® guarantee.
Additionally, more insurance companies are requesting these types of certifications and warranties before offering policies. Some insurance companies will even give homeowners a discount on their insurance premium if the homeowner’s roof has a LeakFREE® Roof Certification. Without certifications or warranties, loans and policies can be considered riskier which translates to higher premiums or higher mortgage rates.
The Financial and Insurance Benefits of Proactive Care
Many homeowners ignore their roof until a brown stain appears on the ceiling, but by then, the cost of repair has often tripled. Proactive roof maintenance is not just about ‘fixing leaks’; it is about maximizing the ROI of your home’s most expensive asset. Search queries like ‘how to extend roof life’ or ‘preventative roof care’ highlight a growing need for homeowners to understand that a 30-year shingle only lasts 30 years if the ventilation, flashing, and drainage systems are kept in peak condition.
Regular maintenance by an NRCIA-certified professional helps identify ‘silent’ issues like granular loss, compromised flashing around chimneys, and organic growth like moss or algae that can rot wooden decking. Furthermore, consistent maintenance records are becoming a requirement for many insurance carriers. If a major storm hits and you cannot prove the roof was well-maintained, your claim could be denied due to ‘wear and tear’ or ‘neglect.’ By investing in an annual maintenance plan and a LeakFREE® certification, you create a documented history of care. This documentation acts as a safety net during insurance disputes and serves as a powerful selling point if you decide to list your home. Don’t wait for a storm to discover a vulnerability; professional maintenance ensures your roof remains a shield rather than a liability.
The NRCIA Guarantee
NRCIA wants to help take out the guesswork of choosing a good roofing inspector and/or contractor. Instead of going with a recommendation from a friend or neighbor, trust a recommendation from the NRCIA whose sole purpose is to bring exceptional confidence and credibility to the roofing industry.
Homeowners can rest assured when they see the NRCIA Certified badge on their inspector’s shirt or business card. They will be working with roofing inspectors who know exactly what to look for when assessing the structure’s roof system.