Is Your Roof Ready for an Ohio Season? A Homeowner's Checklist

Your home's entire exterior—the roof, siding, and gutters—takes a beating in the Ohio Valley, dealing with everything from winter ice to summer thunderstorms. Proactive maintenance is the best way to extend its life and prevent small issues from becoming expensive problems. Here’s a simple checklist to help.

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The Pro Check-Up (Twice a Year)

The most important step is having a professional inspect your property's exterior, ideally in the spring and fall. An expert can spot subtle issues you might miss. Here’s what a professional inspection should cover:

❇️ Roof & Shingle Condition: Check for curling, cracked, or missing shingles and any loss of the protective granules.

❇️ Seals & Flashing: Inspect the seals around chimneys, vents, windows, and doors—the most common spots for water to get in.

❇️ Attic & Gutters: Look in the attic for signs of moisture and check that gutters are secure and pitched correctly.

Your Seasonal To-Do List

These are simple tasks any homeowner can do to help their home's exterior perform its best.

✔️ Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters are a primary cause of problems. Water that can't drain can back up under shingles, causing rot and ice dams in winter.

✔️ Trim Overhanging Branches: Long branches can scrape against your roof and siding in the wind or break off and cause serious damage during a storm.

✔️ Inspect Siding & Caulk: Do a walk-around and look for any cracked or loose siding panels. Check the caulk around windows and doors to ensure the seals are intact.

After a Bad Storm

Once it's safe to go outside after a severe storm, take a quick look from the ground for any obvious problems.

🚧 Check for Missing Shingles or Siding: Scan your roof and walls for any pieces that may have been blown off by high winds.

🚧 Look for Hail Damage: Check your gutters, downspouts, window screens, and siding for any obvious dents or dings.

🚧 Spot any Debris: If you see large branches on your roof or against your house, it's best to have a professional safely remove them and check for damage.

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Staying on top of your property's health is the smartest way to protect your biggest investment. If you aren't sure where to start or have spotted something concerning, the team at McPeek Construction Services is here to help. Call us at (513) 713-6825 to schedule a professional, no-pressure inspection.