After a long Ontario winter filled with snow, ice, and high winds, spring is the perfect time to inspect your roof. Even if your roof appears intact from the ground, winter weather can cause hidden damage that leads to leaks, mold, or structural problems down the road.
This spring roof inspection checklist is designed specifically for Ontario homeowners to help catch issues early and keep your home protected through the rainy season and beyond.
Why Spring Roof Inspections Are Important in Ontario
Ontario winters are harsh—your roof deals with:
- Heavy snow loads
- Freeze-thaw cycles
- Ice dam formation
- Strong winter winds
All of this puts strain on your roofing materials, flashing, gutters, and structure. Spring is the ideal time to inspect and address any damage before spring rains and summer heat cause further problems.
🔍 Spring Roof Inspection Checklist
✅ 1. Inspect Shingles for Damage
Look for:
- Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
- Shingles with granule loss (check gutters for granule buildup)
- Discolored patches or exposed nail heads
👉 Tip: Use binoculars for a close-up look from the ground, or hire a roofer for a full inspection.
✅ 2. Check Flashing and Seals
Focus on:
- Chimneys
- Skylights
- Vents and pipe boots
- Valleys and edges
Check that the flashing is still sealed, lies flat, and has no rust or visible gaps where water could enter.
✅ 3. Look for Signs of Ice Dam Damage
Inspect the lower edges of your roof for:
- Warped or stained soffits and fascia
- Shingles lifting near eaves
- Water stains in the attic along the eaves
If you had large icicles or ice dams during winter, this is especially important.
✅ 4. Examine the Attic
From inside the attic:
- Look for signs of water stains or mold
- Check for daylight through the roof boards
- Ensure insulation is dry and hasn’t been compacted or displaced
- Confirm ventilation is working (no blocked soffits or vents)
✅ 5. Clean and Inspect Gutters
Clogged gutters from melting snow and spring debris can cause water to back up under the roofline.
- Remove leaves, twigs, and sediment
- Check for loose gutter sections or improper slope
- Confirm water flows freely through downspouts
✅ 6. Check Roof Penetrations
Look at areas where anything penetrates the roof (vents, satellite dishes, solar panels, etc.) and ensure:
- Seals aren’t cracked or peeling
- No signs of moisture or mold are forming around the base
✅ 7. Look for Animal or Pest Damage
Winter critters often nest in warm attics and can chew through roofing materials.
- Inspect roof edges, soffits, and vents for signs of entry
- Look for droppings, nests, or torn insulation in the attic
When to Call a Professional
If you notice:
- Persistent leaks or ceiling stains
- Structural sagging
- Widespread shingle damage
- Ice dam-related water damage
…call a licensed roofing contractor. Ontario’s variable spring weather means minor damage can turn into a major repair quickly.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Preventive Maintenance
Spring is a great time to:
- Re-caulk flashing and seals
- Replace damaged shingles
- Clean moss or algae growth
- Book a professional inspection (many roofers offer spring specials)
Final Thoughts
Ontario’s weather isn’t kind to roofs, and spring is your chance to assess the damage before it gets worse. Whether you do it yourself or bring in a pro, using this checklist will help you extend the life of your roof and avoid surprise repair bills later in the year.