Pen and ink drawing of an older Oviedo roof with a rooster weathervane, Spanish moss on oaks in background.

What I check on my roof twice a year, and why you should too

A few simple roof inspections can save you from big headaches in Oviedo’s storms and sun.

I’ve lived in Oviedo for over a decade now, and I’ve learned the hard way that our weather here is no joke. One year I ignored a little patch of missing granules on a shingle, and by the time I found the leak, it had already rotted a piece of my decking. That repair cost way more than a simple DIY check would have.

So now I’ve got a routine: twice a year (around the time change in spring and fall) I spend maybe an hour poking around my roof and attic. It’s not glamorous, but it’s saved me a ton. Here’s exactly what I do.

Walk around and look up

First thing I do is grab a pair of binoculars and walk the whole perimeter of my house. I look for shingles that are curled, cracked, or missing entirely. Also any dark spots that might mean algae or moss — that stuff holds moisture, and that ain't good.

I also check the flashing around my chimney and any vent pipes. Sometimes the caulking dries out and cracks. That’s how small leaks start. If I see anything suspect, I’ll get up on a ladder (carefully) and take a closer look.

Clean the gutters (ugh)

I hate this chore, but it’s gotta be done. Clogged gutters mean water backs up under the shingles and rots the fascia. In Oviedo, with all our oak leaves, they fill up fast. I use a little gutter scoop and then hose them out.

Also check the downspouts — sometimes a kid’s ball or a wad of leaves blocks them. I flush them with a garden hose to make sure water flows free. If it doesn't, I use a plumber’s snake or just take the downspout apart.

DIY vs. Pro inspection: Which to pick?

DIY Check	Pro Inspection
Free, except for your time	$100–$250 depending on roof size
You know your roof best	They see stuff you miss
Good for basic checks	Includes warranty and reports
Risk of missing hidden issues	Often uses drones and thermal cameras

Trim those branches back

Oviedo has beautiful live oaks, but those branches can scrape your roof and drop leaves and acorns. I trim any limb that hangs within six feet of my roofline. During a storm, a branch can slap shingles off or even punch a hole.

Also, squirrels use them as highways to your attic. I’ve had them chew through vents. Keeping branches away helps on multiple fronts.

Attic inspection after a good rain

This is the best way to spot a leak early. After a heavy downpour, I go into my attic with a flashlight. I look for wet spots on the roof sheathing, dark stains, or mold. Sometimes you can see light coming through a tiny hole.

I also check the insulation around vents for signs of moisture. A wet attic can lead to mold and rot quick. I replaced some blown-in insulation once because a little leak went undetected for months.

Check for algae and moss

Our humidity here is perfect for growing stuff on roofs. I use a spray-on roof cleaner that kills algae and moss without damaging shingles. Don't use a pressure washer — it can rip up the granules.

I apply it in the spring, and it keeps the roof looking good for a year or more. It also helps the shingles last longer because they don’t hold moisture.

Inspect the ridge vents and soffits

Proper attic ventilation is key to keeping your roof cool and reducing ice dams (though we don’t get those, but still). I make sure ridge vents aren’t blocked by bird nests or debris. Soffits should be clean and not painted shut.

If airflow is blocked, your attic gets super hot, which can warp the roof deck. Plus it makes your AC work harder. I’ve found a wasp nest in a vent before — not fun, but easy to clear.

▶ Watch: DIY roof inspection tips for Florida homeowners
Find it on YouTube → “Oviedo Florida roof inspection DIY”

Questions folks ask me

How much does a roof inspection cost in Oviedo?

Most roofers charge around $150 for a basic inspection, but some do it free if you're considering repairs. I'd call a few local places and ask.

What's the best time of year to check my roof?

Late April and early October are perfect. April gets you ready for hurricane season, and October checks for damage from summer storms before winter.

Can I walk on my own roof safely?

Only if it's a low slope and not wet. Even then, use a safety harness. I usually just look from the ground or a ladder. Better safe than a broken hip.

How often should I replace shingles?

Asphalt shingles last about 20-25 years in Florida. If yours are older, start saving for a replacement. Curling or bald shingles are a sign.

What about metal roofs?

They last longer (40+ years) but need checks on fasteners and sealants. Same routine applies — look for loose panels and rust spots.

So that’s my twice-a-year routine. It’s not fancy, but it’s honest work, and it’s saved me from at least two major leaks over the years. Oviedo’s weather is beautiful — until it ain’t. Spending an hour on a Saturday morning beats spending thousands on emergency repairs any day.

Next time you’re out watering the lawn or picking up acorns, just look up. Your roof will thank you. And if you find something you can’t handle, call a pro. We’ve got good contractors here in Seminole County. Just don’t wait too long — the roosters don’t wait, and neither should you.

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