What You Can Do Before Calling a Roofing Contractor
Whether you’re a homeowner checking on a leak, a business owner looking to extend the life of your roof, or a facility manager maintaining a large industrial building, there’s one thing you all have in common: your roof matters. A strong, well-maintained roof protects people, property, and profits. But before you jump straight into hiring a professional, there are simple DIY roofing tips you can do yourself that can help you save time, money, and headaches.
Here’s how you can perform basic roof care safely and effectively—whether your property is residential, commercial, or industrial.
Know Your Roof Type: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Before diving into any roofing task, it’s essential to understand what type of roof you have.
Residential roofs often use asphalt shingles, wood shake, tile, or metal. These are generally pitched (angled) and have ventilation systems like ridge vents or attic fans.
Commercial roofs are typically flat or low-slope systems with materials like TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen. They often support HVAC units and drainage systems.
Industrial roofs may include reinforced structures with built-up roofing systems, metal panels, or membrane coatings that must withstand heat, chemical exposure, or heavy traffic.
Understanding your roof helps you choose the right cleaning tools, sealants, and inspection techniques.
DIY Tip #1: Visual Inspections Go a Long Way
One of the most overlooked forms of roof maintenance is simply looking up. Whether you own a house or manage a warehouse, a visual roof inspection can catch issues before they become costly disasters.
What to look for:
Missing or curling shingles (residential)
Standing water or ponding (commercial/industrial)
Rust on flashing or seams
Cracks, punctures, or membrane blisters
Signs of animal activity or droppings
Interior water stains on ceilings or walls
Use binoculars or a drone if you’re not comfortable climbing. If you do use a ladder, always follow safety guidelines and never walk on steep or high roofs without proper gear.
DIY Tip #2: Keep It Clean—Debris Is the Enemy
Leaves, pine needles, dirt, and even bird nests can trap moisture and damage your roofing materials. Regularly clearing debris from your roof and gutters will improve drainage and extend your roof’s lifespan.
Residential:
Use a soft broom or leaf blower to clean valleys and gutters. Avoid using a pressure washer as it can strip granules off shingles.
Commercial/Industrial:
Clear roof drains, scuppers, and check for signs of pooling water. A clogged drain can lead to structural damage, especially during a storm.
Pro Tip: After a storm or strong winds, always inspect your roof and gutters for loose debris, especially if you’re in a tree-heavy area.
DIY Tip #3: Check and Seal Flashing and Vents
Flashing is the thin metal or rubber strip around roof features like chimneys, skylights, or vents. It keeps water from sneaking into cracks and seams. Over time, flashing can loosen or corrode.
You can apply roofing caulk or sealant to minor cracks or gaps around flashing or vent pipes. For asphalt shingle homes, roofing cement can also be used for quick fixes.
For commercial or industrial buildings, check for cracks in sealant around rooftop equipment or vents. Use a high-grade roofing sealant compatible with your membrane material.
DIY Tip #4: Clear Moss and Algae
If you see green patches or black streaks on your roof, don’t ignore them. Moss and algae hold moisture, which breaks down shingles and encourages rot.
Mix a solution of 50% water and 50% bleach, then spray it on the affected area. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then gently rinse with a garden hose.
Never use a power washer, especially on asphalt or membrane roofing—it can damage the material and void warranties.
For commercial and industrial rooftops, consider installing zinc or copper strips to inhibit moss growth in the long term.
DIY Tip #5: Document Everything
Take clear photos before and after your DIY efforts. This helps in several ways:
You can track damage over time
You’ll have evidence for insurance claims if a storm hits
A roofing contractor will appreciate your notes if professional repairs are needed
Create a maintenance log or checklist every 6 months (spring and fall are ideal) to stay on top of any changes.
When to Call the Pros
Even the best DIY maintenance can’t replace professional expertise. If you see sagging areas, active leaks, mold, or roof membrane damage—or if your roof is more than 20 years old—it’s time to call in the pros.
California Flat Roofs offers expert inspections, leak repairs, roof coatings, and full roof replacements for homes, businesses, and industrial facilities across Sacramento and beyond.
Taking care of your roof doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little effort and awareness, you can prevent major issues, improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your roof—whether you’re protecting your family, your customers, or your machinery.
Start simple. Stay safe. And know when to hand it off to the experts.
Need help beyond DIY?
Call California Flat Roofs today for a professional evaluation. Whether it’s a small repair or a total re-roof, we’ve got Sacramento covered—literally.