Retain the roof.Its easy to take for granted the one thing that shields you from the elements. But doing so could cost you unnecessary repair costs. Be diligent about roof maintenance. After the next rainy day, inspect your ceiling for wet spots. Ask a licensed professional to inspect your roof for wear and tear. "If the shingles are curling, buckling, or crackling, its time to replace the roof," says Dan Cornwell, president of CC&L Roofing in Portland, Oregon.