6 steps for summer roof maintenance

By Elite Roofing.  

Your guide to preparing your roof for everything this season, from steady sunlight to sudden storms. 

Now that summer is officially here, your home needs to be ready to do more than host backyard BBQs and pool parties — heat, humidity and summer storms are ready to make their appearance; no invite necessary. 

We at Elite Roofing want to make sure homeowners aren’t caught off-guard the next time these visitors come barging in, so we created this guide for you to safeguard your home and avoid more expensive projects due to neglected damage or debris.  

Why summer roof prep matters 

Summers can be hot, humid and unpredictable. While your roof is built to endure the elements, high temperatures, direct sunlight and sudden summer storms can wear down key components, especially if they’re already aging or damaged. 

One often overlooked issue? Flashing deterioration due to heat. 

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How heat affects roof flashing 

Roof flashing, typically made from metal like aluminum or galvanized steel, is essential for keeping water out where different roofing materials meet — think chimneys, vents, skylights and valleys. 

When the temperature rises, metal flashing expands. Over time, the constant expansion and contraction cycle can loosen or warp the flashing, leading to gaps where water can seep in. This can eventually cause interior leaks, mold and even structural damage — problems you definitely don’t want to deal with during summer storms. 

Pro tip: If you haven’t had your flashing inspected in the past 12 months, now is the time to do it. 

Summer roof preparation checklist 

Follow these steps to make sure your roof is ready this summer: 

1 - Schedule a professional roof inspection 

Have a licensed roofing contractor like Elite Roofing inspect your entire roof system. We’ll look for: 

• Damaged or missing shingles 
• Tears in the flat roofing membrane 
• Warped or loose flashing 
• Signs of UV damage 
• Moss or algae growth 
• Soft spots or sagging areas 

A professional eye can catch small issues before they become costly repairs. 

2 - Clean out gutters and downspouts 

Clogged gutters lead to water pooling on your roof, which can damage shingles and lead to leaks. Clear out leaves, debris and any obstructions before those sudden summer rainstorms arrive. 

Bonus tip: Consider installing gutter guards to reduce maintenance and improve water flow year-round. 

3 - Check attic ventilation 

Good ventilation allows hot air to escape, preventing excessive heat buildup in your attic. Poor ventilation can cause: 

• Higher energy bills 
• Shingle deterioration 
• Mold and moisture problems 

Elite Roofing can assess your attic ventilation and recommend improvements if needed. 

4 - Look for signs of water damage 

Inspect your ceilings and attic for signs of water intrusion, such as stains, peeling paint, musty odors or mold. If you spot any of these, call a roofing expert immediately to prevent further damage. 

5 - Trim overhanging trees 

Storms can send branches crashing onto your roof. Trim back trees and branches that could cause damage during high winds or heavy rains. 

6 - Consider a reflective roof coating 

Reflective roof coatings can lower your roof’s surface temperature by up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, helping to: 

• Reduce cooling costs 
• Extend the life of your roof 
• Improve indoor comfort 

Ask Elite Roofing if your home is a good candidate for a cool roof solution. 

Don’t wait — Summer roof damage happens fast 

Many homeowners wait until it’s too late to address roof issues, but with the intense sun, humidity and fast-moving thunderstorms, early action is key. 

Protect your home, improve your energy efficiency and avoid the headache of emergency roof repairs. 

Schedule your summer roof inspection today 

At Elite Roofing, we proudly serve Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne, North Bergen and the rest of Hudson County, New Jersey, with expert roof inspections, repairs and maintenance services. 

Call now or book online to schedule your summer roof checkup. Let us help you stay cool, dry and protected all season long. 

Original article and photo source: Elite Roofing