Summer is an excellent time for homeowners to focus on roof upkeep and repairs, thanks to the longer days and generally stable weather. Many homeowners tend to overlook regular maintenance until a problem arises, but preventative maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the line. This season provides the perfect conditions to address minor issues before they escalate — and if you had ice dam buildup last winter, a great time to do a visual inspection.
Whether it's checking for damage, cleaning debris, or making significant upgrades like installing skylights or solar panels, summer is a great time to focus on these projects. It not only enhances the safety and comfort of your home but also contributes to its overall longevity. Let's explore some key roofing projects that you should consider completing this summer to keep your home protected and energy-efficient.
Check for Damage
"Homeowners should plan to hire a properly trained professional who can provide a thorough inspection," notes Stephen Riale, CARE Area Manager at GAF. Speaking from experience, a professional roof inspection is well worth it. "Make sure they check for any loose, missing, or damaged shingles, and inspect the roof flashing and seals for signs of damage and roof leaks around chimneys, chimney caps, vents, and skylights to ensure everything is sealed right to prevent water damage or water backup in the home."
Clean Debris
"[A professional roofer] can also clean the roof surface including valley areas, gutters, and downspouts to make sure they're clear of debris that causes water buildup, and subsequent damage to the roof and the foundation," adds Riale. This might be a suitable task for the professional you hire to check for damage. Riale adds, "Additionally, a certified roofing professional can clean the roof’s surface and remove any algae growth, moss growth caused by nearby trees, leaves, or debris to prevent future damage to the roof and home."
Install or Repair a Skylight
"Since it’s typically drier in the summer, it’s an ideal time to install or repair a skylight," shares Riale. The warm, dry conditions help ensure a secure and watertight installation, reducing the risk of leaks, roof damage, and more serious structural damage during the process.
Install Solar Panels or Solar Shingles
"It can be a good time to install solar panels too, since the longer days provide more sunlight. Timberline Solar™ is a solar roof from GAF Energy that incorporates the world’s first nailable solar shingle, for a rooftop solar option that is reliable, durable, cost-effective, and aesthetically superior," highlights Riale. "Timberline Solar™ is the only roof system to directly integrate solar technology into traditional roofing processes and materials and can be installed as easily as a traditional roofing shingle."
Apply Solar-Reflective Coating
Homeowners can also look to apply a solar-reflective coating to their roof in the summer to reduce heat absorption in the home, potentially leading to lower energy costs and bills. "The GAF Surface Seal SB Roof Coating is a solvent-based, highly reflective coating that provides the roof structure with extra protection from heat," recommends Riale.
Improve Attic Ventilation
Proper ventilation supports your roof's longevity and home value. It helps regulate attic temperatures, preventing heat buildup that can damage roof materials. Ventilation also minimizes moisture, reducing mold and mildew risks, and improves energy efficiency, which in turn lowers cooling costs. This makes homes more appealing to buyers. Mechanical ventilation uses natural airflow, ideal for moderate climates, while power vents are effective in hot or humid areas, though they require a power source and maintenance.
Should I wait until Fall, or Make Roof Upgrades in August?
Everyone has a POV, but it often varies based on your geography. "Fall is usually recommended as the best time to install a new roof since temperatures are cooler and more stable; however, installing a roof in the summer has its benefits too," notes Riale. "First, certain roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, perform best in the summer heat since they need heat to properly seal and adhere to the roof structure. Our most popular shingles, GAF Timberline® HDZ™, are made of multiple layers of asphalt-coated fiberglass that are laminated together. Summer also brings longer days, which gives contractors more time for installation and could speed up the process."
He adds, "Summer might be the perfect time but it's also a busy season for professional roofing contractors, which may make availability and scheduling more difficult."
