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Taking Care of Roof Maintenance Saves Money!

April 13, 20163 min read
Roof Maintenance
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roof maintenance sarasota roofing contractor

While it’s easy to ignore the maintenance needs of your roof, it’s not a good idea to do so. Roofing materials are designed to last for many years but, without proper maintenance, their lifespan will be shortened. That’s why SonShine Roofing is such a strong proponent of establishing regular roof maintenance schedules and sticking to them. When roofing maintenance is conducted, there are specific points that must be addressed.

Examine the Entire Roof

That can’t be done from the ground, as it’s simply too difficult to notice minor details that can be easily seen when the roofing experts actually walk the roof looking for issues. Any debris on the roof or in the gutters must be removed to allow a complete inspection. Flashing materials must also be carefully examined for any signs of damage or weakness. Vents and any other openings in the roof are typical sources of roof leaks, and their condition should be carefully monitored.

Look for Issues in the Attic

Top Sarasota roofing companies know that a careful examination of the attic is crucial during a roof maintenance inspection. Even minor leaks are often visible in the attic even before they become obvious from the roof itself and well before they can cause significant damage to your home. Since specific areas of the roof are more prone to damage and, therefore, leaks, expert roofers will always make sure those vulnerable spots are checked carefully for any signs of developing problems.

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Strong winds and driving rains are common in the Sarasota region, and true roofing experts are always looking for signs of damage from weather events. Even when shingles are not actually blown off as a result of our area’s storms, they can be loosened or otherwise damaged. That means they need to be repaired now before the next big storm can cause more damage.

Spotting Past Installation Mistakes

While a good roofing contractor knows the proper techniques for installing all types of roofing products, some roofers will still make mistakes that can lead to problems. Misplaced, exposed, overdrive or under-driven nails, for example, are quite common, not easy to see, and unnoticed by the untrained or experienced eye. But they always allow small amounts of water protrusion. Even if the amount is small it will destroy a roof prematurely. Flashing materials are also subject to installation errors, and those mistakes should always be taken care of to maintain your roof’s integrity.

Of course, there are other roof repair issues a Sarasota roofer should carefully consider during roofing maintenance inspections.

Our professional staff members understand how vital your roof is and that proper maintenance will prolong the life of every roof. Taking the time to schedule a roof inspection today, and setting up a regular maintenance program, can save a great deal of money over the life of your roof.

Invest in Long-Term Roof Protection

Preventive roof maintenance is not only a smart financial move but also essential for safeguarding your home’s overall structural integrity. Organizations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the U.S. Department of Energy emphasize the importance of regular inspections to improve energy efficiency and prevent costly damage. Partnering with an experienced, licensed roofing contractor ensures that your home is protected season after season. Whether it’s post-storm checks or seasonal assessments, consistent maintenance is the key to making your roof last for decades. Don’t wait until there’s a visible problem—proactive care is the best way to save money and stress in the long run.

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General FAQs

Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?

Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out. 

How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

  • Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting. 
  • Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling. 
  • Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials. 
  • Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices. 
  • Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here. 

What causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal. 

  • Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water. 
  • Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.  
  • Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.  
  • Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
  • Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

  • Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. 
  • Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. 
  • Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. 
  • Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. 
  • Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. 
  • Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care. 

What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?

There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.  

Do you employ subcontractors?

No, we do not employ subcontractors. All of the crews we employ are W-2 employees and on our payroll.

Are you licensed and insured in the State of Florida?

Yes, we are licensed by the State of Florida, which you can verify here. We also carry comprehensive liability insurance.

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