If you’ve lived through even one full year in Indianapolis, you know the weather doesn’t mess around—blazing sun, sudden hailstorms, heavy snowfall, and everything in between. And while we all tend to focus on what’s inside our homes, your roof is quietly handling every one of those conditions.
At Cornett Roofing Systems, we’ve seen firsthand how a little attention throughout the year can add decades of life to a roof. That’s why we’ve created this year-round roof maintenance guide—a practical, season-by-season resource to help homeowners like you take care of your biggest asset.
Whether you’re new to homeownership or just want a better plan, this guide will help you:
- Understand what roof maintenance includes and why it matters
- Prepare your roof and budget for each season
- Know when to DIY and when to call in the pros
- Protect your home, warranty, and long-term investment
Let’s walk through the full year together.
Why Roof Maintenance Should Be Part of Your Exterior Home Care Plan
So, what is roof maintenance exactly? It’s more than fixing a leak or replacing a shingle when it blows off. Think of it like your HVAC filter or smoke detector—routine checks and small fixes keep everything working longer.
Roof maintenance is one part of a bigger home exterior maintenance checklist, and it deserves real attention. Your roof protects your insulation, drywall, structure, attic, and electrical systems—if it fails, the damage can multiply fast.
And in Indianapolis? The mix of intense heat, wind, freezing rain, and storm systems can test even the best roof. That’s why every homeowner needs a roof maintenance plan—not just for emergencies, but for the long haul.
How to Prepare for Roof Maintenance Without Getting Overwhelmed
Before you dive into roof work—or even schedule an inspection—it’s worth thinking through a few key things. Roof maintenance isn’t difficult, but having a game plan makes it go smoother and saves you time, money, and headaches later on.
Set Aside a Small Budget
Maintenance doesn’t break the bank, but it does cost something. A little planning—enough to cover inspections, gutter cleanings, and minor repairs—goes a long way. It’s much cheaper than dealing with water damage or an early roof replacement.
Understand Your Roof’s Material
Not every roof is built the same. Asphalt shingles, metal panels, and tile or slate each age differently and require different care. If you’re not sure what you’ve got, don’t worry—we’ll help you identify it during an inspection.
Time It Around the Weather
Aim for roof inspections in spring and fall. These shoulder seasons come after the most intense weather and give you a chance to fix small problems before snow or heat makes them worse.
Keep a Paper Trail
It’s easy to overlook this step, but it’s one of the most important. Save inspection reports, repair invoices, photos, and any warranty documents. If you ever need to make a claim—or sell your home—having that history pays off.
Know When to Call In Help
Cleaning your own gutters or checking things from the ground? Totally fine. But climbing on the roof, tracking down leaks, or making structural repairs? That’s where experience matters. A licensed roofer keeps the job safe and done right.
A Homeowner’s Roof Maintenance Checklist—Season by Season
Here’s where the rubber meets the road. Use this season-by-season breakdown as your go-to guide.
Spring: Recover from Winter
Indiana winters are tough. Snow, ice, and temperature swings can quietly cause damage.
What to do:
- Clear gutters and downspouts. Blockages from leaves or ice can force water under your roofline.
- Inspect shingles or metal panels. Look for cracks, curling, loose nails, or missing pieces.
- Check flashing and seals. These are the metal strips around chimneys, vents, and skylights. If they lift or rust, leaks follow.
- Look in the attic. A quick peek can reveal signs of moisture, mold, or poor ventilation.
Summer: Heat and Hail Season
Sun and storms both hit hard in summer. This is when UV damage and sudden downpours can test your system.
What to do:
- Check for hail or wind damage. Even small hail can bruise shingles or dent metal panels.
- Look for granule loss. Those gritty particles on shingles protect from sun damage. If they’re missing, your roof is aging faster.
- Clear debris after storms. Branches or leaves can trap moisture and cause rot.
Fall: Prepare for Cold
Fall is the ideal time to button things up before winter weather settles in.
What to do:
- Clean your roof and gutters again. Leaves and debris hold water and ice.
- Trim overhanging limbs. Ice can pull branches down—and into your roof.
- Inspect for loose flashing or open seams. Fixing these now is easier than during a snowstorm.
- Check insulation and airflow in the attic. Poor ventilation leads to ice dams, which are a big issue in Indiana.
Winter: Monitor, Don’t Climb
In the coldest months, maintenance is about observation—not going up there yourself.
What to do:
- Watch for ice dams. These show up along roof edges when heat escapes from the attic.
- Check ceilings for leaks. Even small stains mean moisture is getting in.
- Monitor attic conditions. Frost inside your attic means something’s off with airflow.
How Roofing Materials Affect Maintenance and Longevity
If you’re building your maintenance plan, it helps to know what you’re working with. Here’s what to expect from the most common roofing materials:
| Roofing Type | Expected Lifespan | Maintenance Needs |
| Asphalt Shingles | 20–30 years | Check for curling, granule loss, and wind damage twice a year. |
| Metal Roofing | 40–70 years | Inspect seams, fasteners, and coating. Great for heavy weather. |
| Slate/Tile | 75–100+ years | Minimal upkeep but requires a sturdy structure underneath. |
Pro tip: If you’re unsure what’s up there or what shape it’s in, schedule a free inspection with our team. We’ll take a look and give you honest feedback.
What Indianapolis Homeowners Really Want to Know About Roof Maintenance
Whether you’re planning your first home exterior maintenance checklist or trying to avoid costly repairs, these are the questions we hear most often from local homeowners.
How much does roof maintenance usually cost in Indianapolis?
Roof maintenance in Indianapolis typically costs between $150 and $600 per year, depending on the size of your roof, the material, and whether you need repairs. It’s a smart investment that can save you thousands in future damage.
What happens if I skip regular roof maintenance?
If you skip regular roof maintenance, you’re more likely to face leaks, insulation damage, and even premature roof replacement. Small issues like clogged gutters or loose flashing can quickly turn into costly structural problems.
Do I need to clean my roof or just the gutters?
You need to clean both your roof and your gutters as part of full roof maintenance. Debris on the roof can trap moisture and lead to rot, while clogged gutters can back water up under your shingles.
Should I include roof maintenance in my home inspection when buying?
Yes, roof maintenance should absolutely be part of your home inspection when buying. Look for signs of neglect—like missing shingles, ponding water, or poor attic ventilation—that could turn into expensive repairs.
Can Cornett Roofing Systems help with maintenance even if you didn’t install the roof?
Yes, Cornett Roofing Systems offers roof maintenance even if we didn’t install your roof. We work with all roof types and can inspect, clean, and repair your system to keep it in top shape.
Don’t Let a Small Problem Turn Into a Major One
The best time to take care of your roof? Before something breaks. With the right roof maintenance plan, you stay ahead of the weather, extend your roof’s lifespan, and protect the entire exterior of your home.
At Cornett Roofing Systems, we’ve spent over 30 years helping Indianapolis homeowners protect their homes with durable materials, expert workmanship, and honest advice. Whether you’re looking to maintain what you have or explore longer-lasting options like metal or slate, we’re ready to help.
Schedule your free inspection today—no pressure, just clear answers.
