Your Fall Roof Maintenance Checklist
Whether you write it down or make a mental note, we all have a list of home maintenance projects to complete before the seasons change. With cooler weather on the horizon, you’ll be starting to protect outdoor plants, inspect your furnace and prepare your yard for ice and snow; but is your roof ready for another long, Canadian winter?
With its damaging freeze/thaw cycle and ice accumulation, winter is the harshest season for your roof. It’s also difficult for us, roofing professionals, to repair any issues when snow is on the ground (and roof).
A little prep-work and investigation now can save you headaches (and money) later. Our tips below will guide you through a recommended roof maintenance and inspection checklist, preparing you for winter and helping you identify any warning signs that may need to be addressed.
☑ Treat safety seriously
Can you climb, crawl, squeeze and reach? Depending on your home, you may need to do all sorts of acrobatics in order to adequately inspect and maintain your roof. If you have any concerns, ask a professional roofing contractor to perform the inspection for you.
☑ Gutters & downspouts
These important systems keep water from pooling near your home. Ensure both are running smoothly by removing loose debris in the gutters and flushing both with water. Double check that the downspouts are pointing away from you home.
☑ Branches
Trim branches that are close to your home. This helps to prevent abrasions on your roof and limit access for any animals who may be looking for a warm place to spend the winter.
☑ Paint or stain
Touching up wood trim around the roof and gutters helps to seal the wood and prevent rot.
☑ Seal openings
Use caulking, screening or other materials to seal any openings where wildlife can come in. Remember, even the smallest cracks can be used to gain entry!
☑ Inspect inside
Look for water damage (stains, peeling/bubbling paint) on walls, ceilings and pipes that vent through your roof. If you have attic access, ensure your roof isn’t sagging.
☑ Inspect outside
From the ground or using a ladder, check your roof for deteriorating, loose or missing shingles. Check your metalwork for loose gutters, downspouts and rust or stains on the flashing.
If you decide to enlist the help of a roofing professional, be sure to do your research. Many fly-by-night “roofers” have given our industry a bad rap! Before hiring anyone, we recommend looking for unbiased testimonials from Google Business or Facebook, checking BBB listings or asking friends for a referral. We’re so pleased that most of our new business comes from past customers who recommend us to friends and family.
For more tips on roof maintenance, follow us on Facebook or Twitter. If you’re looking for a second opinion or pricing for your roof, please get in touch!
Tags: Autumn, Fall, Maintenance, Maintenance Tips, roof tips, Roofer, Roofing