Year-round maintenance is the best investment you can make in your Spokane home's roof and exterior. Proactive care prevents small issues from becoming expensive problems. Spokane's variable climate—with wet springs, hot summers, cold winters, and occasional snow—requires attention to different areas each season. Follow this comprehensive checklist to keep your home protected throughout the year.
Spring Maintenance (March - May)
Spring is the most critical time for roof and exterior maintenance after winter damage. The snow and cold are gone, but damage may have occurred.
Look for missing or damaged shingles, loose flashing, or visible damage from ice/snow. Use binoculars if needed. Contact a professional if damage is found.
Arrange an assessment of gutter debris, overflow and recurring ice. Cleaning must follow the installed system’s care instructions and use safe access. Have snow and ice evaluated before choosing a removal method; do not treat ice dams as ordinary gutter debris.
Inspect attic, basement, and crawl spaces for water stains, mold, or active leaks. Look for signs of roof leaks in ceilings and upper walls. Address leaks immediately to prevent mold growth.
Look for cracks, gaps, or rot in wood siding, trim, and fascia. Check sealant around windows and doors. Spring moisture makes siding susceptible to damage if not maintained.
Have exterior cleaning needs assessed. Methods, agents and equipment must follow the instructions for the actual siding, finish, roof and gutter products; one cleaning method does not suit every material.
Summer Maintenance (June - August)
Summer heat and occasional summer storms require attention to ventilation and weather protection.
Have attic moisture, air leakage, insulation and ventilation assessed together. Any changes must suit the actual roof and attic assembly and follow the relevant product instructions and project requirements.
Check visible joints from a safe location and report deterioration. Have repairs specified for the actual window, door, flashing and sealant system, preserving required drainage paths.
Check roof flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys. Look for rust, gaps, or lifting edges that could allow water in during summer storms.
Cut back branches overhanging your roof to reduce debris accumulation and improve air circulation. Also helps prevent branches from breaking off in summer storms.
Fall Maintenance (September - November)
Fall is your last opportunity to prepare before winter weather arrives.
Arrange gutter cleaning using the actual system’s care requirements and safe access. Cleaning helps maintain drainage but does not guarantee prevention of ice dams or roof leaks.
Conduct a thorough roof inspection or have a professional perform one. Look for loose or damaged shingles, poor flashing, and other issues that will worsen under winter conditions.
Inspect and replace worn weatherstripping around doors and windows. This prevents winter drafts and heat loss while keeping moisture out.
Arrange an assessment of suspect chimney flashing before wet weather. Flashing repairs must suit the roof and chimney assembly and follow the applicable product instructions; surface sealant alone is not a substitute for correct flashing.
Clear any drainage systems, including foundation drains and perimeter drainage, to ensure water flows away from your home during fall and winter rains.
Winter Maintenance (December - February)
Winter is primarily about monitoring and preventing further damage rather than repairs.
Snow loading depends on the property, roof structure and local design requirements. A generic depth or load figure cannot establish safety. Ask a qualified structural professional to assess concerns and determine whether removal is needed; any work must protect the roof system and follow its manufacturer instructions.
Watch for icicles forming along the roof edge. Ice dams can back water up under shingles, causing attic damage. If ice dams form, call a professional for safe removal.
Ice-dam concerns require an assessment of the roof assembly, air leakage, insulation, ventilation and drainage. The appropriate work depends on the building and installed products. Confirm the applicable manufacturer instructions and code requirements before choosing a repair or an accessory.
Watch ceilings and upper walls for signs of water intrusion. Winter ice and snow can force water into small cracks and gaps.
Professional Inspections Recommended
While homeowners can perform basic visual inspections, professional inspections are invaluable. A qualified contractor can spot issues not visible from the ground and provide detailed guidance on needed repairs. Consider scheduling a professional inspection annually, particularly before fall and winter.