Your Homeowner Checklist Before Thanksgiving

As the Florida Panhandle starts to cool down and Thanksgiving plans take shape, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of food, family, and festivities. But before you start prepping the turkey or putting up the holiday lights, there’s one thing every homeowner should give thanks for – a strong, reliable roof.

Your roof quietly protects your home year-round from heavy rains, humidity, and coastal winds. Taking a little time this season to show it some love can save you stress, money, and potential damage during the wetter winter months.

Here’s your Thanksgiving roofing checklist, courtesy of the team at Johnson Roofing Solutions, proudly serving homes from Pensacola to Tallahassee and across Northwest Florida.

1. Inspect for Leaks (Before the Big Storms Roll In)

Fall and early winter in the Panhandle can bring surprise rain showers and strong winds. Small leaks that go unnoticed can quickly turn into major problems, especially when humidity levels rise.

Take a look around your attic and ceilings for:

Water stains or discoloration
Damp insulation
Musty smells (a sign of hidden moisture)

If you notice anything suspicious, it’s time to schedule an inspection. Our team can quickly identify and fix problem areas before they get worse.

2. Clean Those Gutters and Downspouts

This one’s a Thanksgiving classic and for good reason. Leaves, pine needles, and other debris can clog your gutters, causing water to back up under your roof or pool near your foundation.

Before guests arrive:

Clear out all debris
Check that downspouts are pointed away from your home
Make sure water flows freely after a quick hose test

Clean gutters = a healthier roof and fewer headaches.

3. Check Your Roof for Loose Shingles or Flashing

If you’re comfortable doing so safely, take a quick look at your roof from the ground or with binoculars. High winds and storms throughout the year can loosen shingles or flashing around vents and chimneys.

Warning signs include:

Missing or curled shingles
Exposed underlayment
Rusted or lifted flashing

These small issues can lead to water intrusion and structural damage, and they’re easy to miss until it’s too late. A quick professional inspection can make all the difference.

4. Don’t Forget About Ventilation

With cooler weather coming, you might be tempted to seal up your attic and keep the warm air in. But that’s a mistake many Florida homeowners make. Proper roof ventilation helps regulate moisture levels, prevents mold growth, and keeps energy bills stable.

When your roof “breathes,” your home stays healthier and your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.

5. Prepare for Holiday Guests

Nothing ruins a family gathering like a surprise roof leak or musty smell. If you’re expecting company this Thanksgiving:

Check for drafts or cold spots near your attic
Make sure ceiling fans are reversed for winter (clockwise direction circulates warm air)
Ensure your home’s insulation and roof are working together efficiently

A quick pre-holiday inspection can keep everyone comfortable and worry-free.

Be Thankful for Your Roof!

Your roof is one of the biggest investments in your home and one that often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. This Thanksgiving, take a few minutes to appreciate it and make sure it’s ready to protect you all season long.

If you spot signs of wear, leaks, or damage, Johnson Roofing Solutions is here to help. Our team provides trusted roofing repairs, replacements, and maintenance across Northwest Florida – from Pensacola to Tallahassee and everywhere in between, above and below!