The leaves are starting to change and the cooler weather is rolling in, which means it’s the perfect time to start your fall roof maintenance. Regular upkeep on your home during the fall helps prepare your home for the winter months. Additionally, staying on top of your roof maintenance can help prevent costly damage and extend the life of your roof.
In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential steps to take during the fall to keep your roof, and the rest of your home, in great condition.
Clean Your Gutters
Roof and gutter maintenance go hand-in-hand. So, the first step of your fall roof maintenance routine is clearing out your gutters. Over time, leaves, twigs, and other debris can pile up in your gutters and clog them. As a result, water can start to back up onto your roof. This can lead to roof leaks and even damage to your home’s foundation.
How to Clean Your Gutters
- Use a sturdy ladder to safely access your gutters
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp debris
- Remove debris by hand or with a gutter scoop
- Flush the gutters with a hose to ensure water flows freely through the downspouts
Keeping your gutters clear ensures that rainwater flows away from your home like it should, and helps prevent water damage.
Trim Your Trees
Overhanging branches can be a major hazard during the fall and winter months. So, tree trimming is an important part of your maintenance routine. Not only do branches provide easy access for pests like squirrels, but they also pose a risk of falling and damaging your roof during heavy winds or storms.
Tree Trimming Tips
- Cut back branches that are within six feet of your roof
- Check for dead or dying branches, as these are most likely to break
- Hire a professional if you have tall or hard-to-reach trees to avoid injury
Keeping the trees near your home trimmed also helps keep your gutters clear of falling leaves and helps prevent mold growth.
Check for Leaks and Other Damage
Fall is an ideal time to inspect your roof for signs of leaks or other types of damage. Identifying these problems early can save you from costly roofing repairs and replacements down the road. First, start by checking inside your home for any signs of water stains on the ceiling or walls, which could indicate a leak. Then, if you are able, climb onto your roof and inspect it for damage.
What to Look For When Inspecting Your Roof
- Loose or missing shingles
- Sagging areas or pooling water
- Damaged flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights
If you notice any of these issues, give us a call or book an appointment here so we can assess the problem and recommend the necessary repairs.
Replace Broken and Worn Out Shingles
Worn or broken shingles are a common issue that should also be addressed during your roofing repair and maintenance routine. Damaged shingles can lead to leaks, rot, and further roof deterioration if not replaced promptly. Fortunately, replacing shingles is a relatively straightforward task for a roofing contractor and can make a big difference in the longevity of your roof.
What to Look For When Inspecting Your Shingles
- Cracks or curling edges
- Missing granules
- Shingles that are loose or missing entirely
Replacing damaged shingles now will help your roof withstand winter weather conditions and reduce the risk of leaks.
Check On Your Attic
Lastly, the attic plays an important role in the overall health of your roof. As part of your roof maintenance, take the time to check your attic for proper insulation and ventilation. Poor ventilation can cause moisture buildup, which leads to mold growth. Ultimately, this can cause damage to the roof structure as well.
What to Look For When Inspecting Your Attic
- Check the insulation around attic vents and access points and make sure it’s intact and properly installed
- Look for any signs of moisture or pests (poor or damaged insulation might look compressed, wet, moldy, or show signs of pest infestation, such as droppings or nests)
- Make sure there is sufficient insulation to prevent heat loss
Furthermore, keeping your attic well-ventilated and properly insulated improves the energy efficiency of your home.
Are you ready to check fall roof maintenance off your to-do list? From cleaning your gutters to inspecting your attic, remember that taking these proactive steps will help keep your roof in great condition year-round. Additionally, regular roof and gutter maintenance, along with timely roofing repair and maintenance, will help extend the life of your roof. We’re here for any of your roofing questions along the way!