With fall just around the corner, rain, snow, sleet, and ice will soon be on the way. Your roof is charged with protecting your home from everything fall and winter sends its way. That’s why you need to make sure your roof is ready for fall and winter. Here’s how.
Clear Away Debris
When fall winds pick up and trees begin to lose their leaves, debris can collect quickly on your roof. Keeping your roof healthy begins with clearing away any piles of debris that may collect on top. That includes clearing away any moss that may have begun to grow on your shingles.
Clean the Gutters
All of that debris also can collect in your gutters. Clogged gutters block rainwater and melting snow from safely traveling away from your home. They can cause water to back up into your eaves, causing mold and water damage, or gutters can overflow and damage your landscaping or siding. That’s why most professionals recommend cleaning your gutters in fall and spring to protect your roof. You also can install gutter guards to keep your gutters flowing easily without the need for regular maintenance.
Check Your Shingles
If your roof is going to keep your home safe from water damage all fall and winter, it needs to be in good shape. Examine your shingles to make sure they are in good repair and ready to protect your home from water damage. Be on the lookout for shingles that are cracked, curling or missing. Make sure that the roof grit is holding tight and isn’t wearing away, leaving your roof vulnerable.
Look Inside Your Attic
An interior roof inspection is just as important as an exterior roof inspection. From inside your attic, look for signs of water intrusion. Also, be sure that your roof is well insulated; when attics are poorly insulated, the heat escaping from your home can cause snow on the roof to melt. As it runs toward the eaves, the water will refreeze, causing dangerous and damaging ice dams.
Check for Gaps Around Your Roofline
As temperatures drop, animals look for warm places to nest, and that can include the top of your home! Examine your roofline and eaves for any cracks, gaps or holes that could allow animals to access to your attic. Remember: Animals like mice and squirrels can fit through very small openings when seeking shelter!
If your roof inspection and preparation reveals that your roof or gutter is no longer in good enough shape to protect your home this fall and winter, call The Gutterman of TN! We can install a new roof to keep water out of your home, or we could help you with new gutters or gutter guards to keep water from fall and winter storms flowing safely away from your roofline and your home.