The Maintenance Map
A roof is more than its surface.
01
Roof Surface
02
Flashing
03
Valleys
04
Penetrations
05
Drainage
06
Moss & Debris
THE GOAL
Identify manageable problems while they are still localized,
rather than waiting for water intrusion or widespread
deterioration.
Shingles, Shakes & Roof Surface
Maintenance begins with the visible roofing material. The
inspection looks for changes that can allow water beneath the
surface or indicate that the material is approaching the end of
its useful service life.
- Missing, lifted or damaged shingles
- Cracked, split or deteriorated cedar shakes
- Curling, excessive wear or granule loss
Flashing & Water-Shedding Details
Flashing protects some of the most vulnerable transitions on a
roof. Maintenance checks whether these areas remain properly
sealed and able to direct water away from the building.
- Chimney and wall flashing
- Skylight and roof-to-wall transitions
- Loose, deteriorated or failed sealants
Roof Valleys & Water Collection Areas
Valleys concentrate water from multiple roof planes, so debris
or deterioration in these areas deserves attention. Maintenance
should confirm that water can move through the valley without
being obstructed or redirected beneath the roofing system.
- Leaves, needles and organic debris
- Visible wear around valley materials
- Signs of standing or redirected water
Pipe Boots, Skylights & Chimneys
Roof penetrations interrupt an otherwise continuous water-shedding
surface. They should be checked for aging seals, damaged
components and signs that moisture may be entering around the
penetration.
- Plumbing vent boots
- Skylight perimeter details
- Chimney and mechanical penetrations
Gutters, Downspouts & Drainage
Roof maintenance also considers what happens after rain reaches
the roof edge. Blocked gutters, restricted downspouts and poor
drainage can keep water against roofing and exterior components
longer than intended.
- Gutter debris and buildup
- Downspout flow and visible blockages
- Drainage around roof edges and low areas
Moss, Leaves & Forest Debris
Shaded properties can accumulate organic material that retains
moisture against roofing surfaces. Maintenance should identify
buildup early and use an appropriate approach for the roofing
material rather than aggressive cleaning that can cause damage.
- Moss growth on shaded slopes
- Leaves, needles and branch debris
- Areas where moisture remains trapped