How Often Should You Get Your Roof Inspected and Maintained

Dmytro Morokhovets
Jul 18
4 min read

Your roof is one of your home’s most important defenses against the elements—but unlike your HVAC or plumbing systems, it’s easy to ignore until something goes wrong. That’s why regular inspections and maintenance are critical for extending the life of your roof and protecting your investment. For homeowners in Santa Monica, CA—where coastal weather can bring everything from sun-scorched summers to moisture-laden storms—staying proactive with roof care isn’t just smart; it’s essential.

Why Roof Inspections Matter

Over time, even the most durable roofs can develop issues due to age, environmental exposure, or installation flaws. A small crack, leak, or lifted shingle may seem insignificant now, but if left undetected, it can escalate into serious structural damage.

Regular roof inspections help spot potential problems before they lead to costly repairs. A trained roofing professional will assess the condition of your materials, check flashing and sealing points, and inspect vulnerable areas such as valleys, eaves, chimneys, skylights, and roof penetrations.

Routine checks ensure that your roof continues to perform efficiently, withstand local climate challenges, and remain compliant with manufacturer warranties and insurance standards.

Recommended Inspection Frequency

Industry professionals generally advise two roof inspections per year—once in the spring and again in the fall. These seasons are ideal because they follow the more intense winter and summer weather patterns, allowing professionals to assess any wear and tear or weather-related damage.

In Santa Monica, spring inspections are especially important after periods of heavy rain or coastal storms. Fall inspections prepare your roof for the rainy season and help identify heat damage caused by the intense summer sun.

Additionally, your roof should be inspected after any significant weather event, such as windstorms, hail, or wildfires. Even if you don’t see visible damage from the ground, hidden issues can lurk beneath the surface and worsen over time.

What Happens During a Roof Inspection?

A comprehensive inspection includes an evaluation of:

Shingle or tile condition (cracks, curling, missing pieces)
Flashing integrity around vents, chimneys, and skylights
Signs of moisture intrusion, mold, or rot
Gutter functionality and blockages
Underlayment wear and tear
Ventilation and insulation effectiveness
Structural stability and decking condition

Many professional roofers also offer drone inspections for hard-to-reach areas and photographic reports for homeowners, providing a detailed overview of current conditions and recommended actions.

The Importance of Maintenance Plans

Incorporating a regular maintenance plan into your roofing schedule can significantly extend your roof’s lifespan. Maintenance typically includes cleaning debris from gutters and valleys, resealing flashing, replacing worn shingles or tiles, and reinforcing loose components. These tasks help prevent small issues from turning into larger, more expensive repairs.

For Santa Monica homeowners, it’s especially important to remove salt-laden air residue, mildew growth, and organic matter like leaves or pine needles—all of which can degrade roofing materials over time if not properly addressed.

When to Call in the Experts

While some visual inspections—like checking for missing shingles or signs of algae—can be done from the ground, a professional roofing contractor brings the tools, training, and safety gear necessary to assess your roof comprehensively and safely.

When it comes to high-quality roofing inspections and maintenance in Santa Monica, Economy Roofing stands out as a reliable and experienced provider. Their team not only offers timely inspection services but also understands the specific challenges of coastal roofing systems, from UV degradation to moisture intrusion. Their work helps homeowners prevent emergencies and maintain optimal roof performance year-round.

The Role of Roofing Materials

Not all roofs age the same. Asphalt shingles, clay tiles, metal roofing, and composite materials each have unique vulnerabilities. Knowing your roofing system’s material is crucial for understanding what maintenance is required.

Malarkey Emerald Pro Contractor–certified materials, for instance, are engineered to resist algae, hail, and UV damage. But even with advanced performance, routine upkeep is necessary to ensure long-term durability. Maintenance schedules may vary slightly based on the brand, age, and roof pitch, which is why a personalized inspection plan is so valuable.

Don’t Wait for a Leak to Act

A roof leak is often the first sign homeowners notice—but by then, water has already compromised insulation, framing, or even electrical systems. Preventive inspections catch leaks early or stop them from developing altogether. It’s far more cost-effective to invest in a biannual checkup than to deal with mold remediation, ceiling damage, or an entire roof replacement.

Even roofs with warranty protection may require proof of regular maintenance to remain covered—another reason to schedule inspections and keep clear documentation.

Final Thoughts

Your roof works hard to protect your home year after year. With a regular inspection and maintenance plan, you can reward that reliability by catching problems early, extending its lifespan, and reducing costly surprises. Whether you’ve recently moved into a new property or your roof is approaching middle age, there’s no better time to get on a proactive care schedule.

A trusted local expert like Economy Roofing can guide you through the process, giving you peace of mind and helping your Santa Monica home stand strong against the elements—no matter the season.