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Your Complete Fall Roof Maintenance Checklist: 5 Simple Steps
Proper roof maintenance can help extend the life of your investment, and fall is the perfect time to clean up the gutters and get ready for the colder months ahead. Prepare your roof now with our simple fall roofing tips checklist.
Summer and autumn months are busy with garden and lawn maintenance, but don't forget to take a look up - now is the time to prepare your roof for winter, too.
A little fall roof prep work now can help you protect the longevity of your roof from dreaded leaks and damaged shingles.
How do I prepare my roof for the fall?
Read below to learn how to keep your roof in tip-top shape, straight from the mouth of a roofing expert.
Fall Checklist: 5 Steps to Maintain Your Roof
Task #1: Clean up your gutters.
Leaves and debris naturally tend to collect in your home's gutter system. Left for too long, they'll turn into black sludge that can clog downspouts, leading to rainwater overflows and potential roof or siding damage.
The excess weight puts pressure on the metal that can cause them to pull away from their otherwise secured anchor point - a danger to both your home and people nearby.
Use a firm rubber spatula to scoop the leaves out and safely scrape the grime. A plumber's snake can clear your downspouts.
Pro Tip: Wait until the last of your trees are bare, so you get most of the leaves. Install gutter screens or guards to prevent future leave collection.
Task #2: Clear the debris.
Besides the gutters, fall is primetime for things to, well, fall. So check your rooftop for fallen debris from trees, like twigs and leaves, and remove them regularly. Debris build-up can cause mold, roof erosion, and major damage to your shingles.
If you're experienced on the roof, climb up with a secured ladder and use a soft broom to wipe off excess debris.
Pro Tip: Pay extra attention to the roof's valleys, which are the most vulnerable to pooling and water damage.
Task #3: Look for signs of damage.
Once you've cleared your roof and gutters, you'll have a clear view to take a peek at its condition.
Look out for these telltale signs of roof issues:
- Cracked, frayed, or missing shingles
- Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or windows
- Mold and water damage
Climb on the roof or use binoculars from the ground to perform your visual inspection.
Task #4: Trim your trees and bushes.
Trees provide your yard with some much-needed shade during the hot months, but if they overhang the roof, they can cause big issues. The leaves and needles will need to be cleared from your roof often, and branches that break may damage your roof.
Trim back your trees and bushes near the roof once a year - DIY any easier jobs with a trimming tool, or outsource to the experts to remove bigger branches.
Task #5: Check your attic.
The inside elements affect your roof just as the outside ones do, so you should take some time to check the airflow in your attic for adequate ventilation, which prevents mold and rot.
This one is tough to do on your own. Hire an energy and insulation contractor to inspect your setup and make any adjustments necessary.
A Little Work Now For A Longer Roof Lifespan
A high-quality, well-installed roof will last a long time, and with regular maintenance and care, you will extend that life even longer.
On top of your regular roof maintenance, we recommend you have a professional check your roof top to bottom every two years, so you can find and address any issues before they become more costly ones.
Is it time for your bi-annual checkup with a professional? Contact us at Sameday Roofing, a fully licensed roofing company in Hamilton, Ontario.
Call 905-544-4667 for your fall roof assessment!
