When the sun beats down and summer storms hit hard, your roof takes the brunt of it. Summer roof maintenance is a must—not just for keeping your home or building protected, but for saving money and preventing surprise repairs. Heat, wind, and heavy rain all work against your roof’s condition.
Staying ahead of the damage with a smart seasonal routine keeps everything secure and running efficiently. This checklist breaks down what to watch for, what to fix, and how to keep your roof performing at its best all summer long.
Summer Roof Maintenance: Everything You Need to Know
Minnesota weather doesn’t play around. We deal with icy winters, heavy snow, hailstorms, and scorching sun. That combo can wear down even the best roofing systems. Regular seasonal roof inspections and upkeep aren’t just good practice—they’re essential.
Keeping up with roof care now helps you avoid expensive repairs down the line and adds years to your roof’s lifespan. Ignoring summer roof maintenance can lead to hidden issues that turn into expensive problems later.
Roof Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners
Here’s your go-to list to keep your roof in great shape this summer:
Clearing Gutters and Debris
- Remove leaves, twigs, and gunk from gutters and downspouts.
- Ensure downspouts channel water away from your home’s foundation.
- Tip: Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under your shingles, leading to $2,000+ in water damage.
Inspect for UV Damage Prevention
- Watch for fading, curling, or blistering shingles.
- Check flashing and sealants for cracks or wear.
- Tip: If your roof is over 10 years old, UV-resistant coating can be a smart upgrade.
Check for Heat-Related Roof Damage
- Look for cracking or warping, especially in shingles or membrane roofing.
- Tip: Roof surfaces can hit 150°F in the summer, damaging underlayment and insulation.
Attic Ventilation Check
- Make sure ridge vents, soffits, and fans aren’t blocked.
- Check insulation to reduce heat buildup.
- Poor ventilation can void warranties and hike up energy bills.
Post-Winter Wear and Tear
- Watch for missing shingles, especially near gutters.
- Ice dams might’ve left damage you can’t see until it leaks.
- Winter roof repairs in Minnesota can run $1,500–$3,500.
Check Flashing and Roof Penetrations
- Examine areas around chimneys, skylights, vents, and solar panels.
- Reseal any gaps to stop summer storm leaks.
Look for Moss, Algae, or Mold
- Check shaded or north-facing areas.
- Use eco-safe cleaners.
- Moss can trap moisture, slowly wrecking your shingles. See warning signs
Check Roof Anchors and Solar Mounts
- Tighten fasteners that may have expanded or loosened with heat.
Schedule a Mid-Year Professional Inspection
- A pro can spot internal damage that’s invisible from the outside.
Summer Roofing Tips Minnesota
Summer storms in Minnesota hit hard and fast. June to August brings hail, lightning, and strong winds—and they’re only getting worse. South-facing roofs get the worst of the sun. Add in high humidity, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for roof damage and mold growth.
According to NOAA data, the state racks up millions in insurance claims every year due to summer weather events.
Here’s how to get ahead of it:
- Invest in Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. These meet IBHS standards for hail resistance.
- Schedule inspections after major storms. Even small damage can turn into big trouble later.
- Apply reflective roof coatings. They reduce UV damage and keep cooling costs down.
- Install seamless gutters or leaf guards. These help manage heavy downpours and reduce clogs.
- Improve insulation and ventilation. A well-maintained roof can cut cooling costs by up to 15%.
Importance of Seasonal Roof Inspection
Summer gives you the perfect window to get your roof checked—and it’s not just about good weather. It’s about staying ahead of problems while they’re still easy (and affordable) to fix. If you wait until fall or winter, snow and ice can make inspections harder, and small issues might turn into major repairs.
Here’s why summer inspections make sense:
- Clear skies and dry conditions make it easier to spot problem areas.
- Better visibility helps detect cracks, soft spots, or worn flashing before they cause leaks.
- You’ll beat the fall and winter rush, when demand for emergency repairs spikes.
- It’s preventative. Fixing minor issues now can save you thousands down the road.
Stay on a schedule recommended by the NRCA:
- Do it twice a year: spring and late summer.
- Check for soft spots and moisture. Hidden damage from winter or early storms can show up now.
- Prolong your roof’s life by up to 25%.
- Avoid emergency winter repairs. Snow loads make leaks and sagging worse.
Take photos of your roof after each inspection. If damage shows up later, you’ve got documentation for insurance claims. And if you’re a property manager in Minnesota, this habit can help you stay on top of maintenance across multiple buildings without surprises.
Proactive Roof Care: Prevent Problems Before They Escalate
You don’t want to wait for leaks to tell you there’s a problem. Crown Exteriors makes it easy to get ahead of costly repairs with licensed, bonded, and insured professionals who specialize in both residential and commercial roofing. We offer:
- Storm damage restoration you can trust.
- Advanced diagnostics like drone inspections, infrared scans, and moisture mapping.
- Energy-smart, sustainable solutions built around your home or business.
- Custom roofing plans are designed for what you actually need.
We’re local, deeply rooted in the Minnesota community, and proud to support Feed My Starving Children—a portion of every project goes straight to this cause. You’ll get fast response times, fair pricing, and repairs that last.
Call 651-236-9227 or book your inspection now—you’ll be glad you did.