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Roof raking can damage shingles if improperly done. Be sure to use a rake that’s designed specifically for removing snow from a roof, and don’t use excessive pressure. Light, consistent pressure to pull down the bulk of the snow is all that’s needed—if you clear right down to the shingles, you’re probably using too much force and risking roof damage.

It’s a good idea to have a roof inspection once every two or three years to catch issues early and avoid major property damage. However, if you recently had a new roof installed, you can safely wait around five to ten years before scheduling an inspection, especially since your workmanship warranty should last about that long. You might also want to schedule more frequent or one-off roof inspections if you are buying or selling a home, if you have issues with leaks or visible damage, or if your homeowner’s insurance company requires an updated inspection.

Unfortunately, there’s no definitive answer to this question, but the wind rating of your shingles will give you a good idea of what wind speeds can damage your roof. If you’re concerned about damage, inspect your roof following windy conditions to look for signs of wind damage to your shingles. When in doubt, consider hiring a professional who fixes roofs to carry out an expert inspection. Remember that hurricanes, tropical storms, and tornadoes are likely to cause the most damage, but even severe thunderstorms can bring winds that compromise your roofing system.

You should inspect your roof at least twice a year during the rainiest seasons: spring and fall. It’s also a good idea to get an inspection after getting hit with particularly heavy rain and windstorms, as these may damage your roof. If you are buying or selling a home, that might also be a good time to get the roof inspected.