_cmyk.png)
Autumn is in full color; the leaves are transitioning to painted hues, the weather is cooling, and the pumpkin spice lattes are steaming. As the colors of fall mute to a dull brown, those beautiful leaves begin to fall, littering lawns and gutters.
As leaves drop into gutters and onto the roof, they decompose. Wet, rotting leaves gather in the valleys, behind chimneys, and clog the gutters, leading to roof damage as they decompose. By abiding by a regular maintenance schedule and proactively assessing their roofs, homeowners can take action to protect shingles from damage from falling leaves and debris. Follow these tips to preserve the roof and prevent fall fallout!
Can Falling Leaves Damage a Roof?
Colorful autumn leaves look beautiful on trees. Unfortunately, the yellow, orange, and red colors fade to brown. Once leaves dry out and fall, they pose a risk to roofs and gutters. Autumn weather is cool and damp in the midwest, and weather conditions lead to dry leaves that quickly transform into soggy debris that sticks in gutters and on the roof.
Decomposing leaves trapped beneath shingles causes roof deterioration, leading to possible leaks and decreasing the longevity of shingles and roofing materials. Pro tip: use a leaf rake to remove fallen leaves from the roof and keep the area free from debris; mold treatments also could be necessary to ensure that fungus doesn't further impact the roof structure.
Homeowners should be mindful of the trees near their homes (and roofs). Check the roof during fall and remove damp leaves, twigs, and other debris.
Are Gutter Guards Worth It?
Gutter guards cover or fit inside gutters to protect them from accumulating leaves and debris that cause clogs and impact proper drainage. Gutter guards are available in a variety of materials, and they offer homeowners several benefits. Guards help prevent damage to the roof caused by clogged gutters, and gutter guards prevent overflow from damaging the home's foundation, the roof, and the yard. When gutters clog, the overspill wreaks havoc and leads to problems that, over time, could cause expensive damage.
Signs of Roof Damage
When homeowners neglect leaves and other debris on their roofs, shingles can be prone to mold and structural damage. How can homeowners identify roof damage?
Leaves and debris that collect beneath the shingles can leave behind mold or cause deterioration. Inspect underneath shingles and check for any mold growth or rotted wood. Homeowners might notice that the wood beneath the shingles is damaged, and pushing on the area might reveal structural issues.
Advanced roof damage from leaves and debris can cause leaks. Homeowners often notice water stains on their ceiling or water dripping from ceiling seams. Once homeowners identify roof damage, they need to call a roofing company to assess the extent of the damage. The Eureka Contracting and Roofing team performs a full roof inspection to identify weak areas and recommend necessary repairs. For older roofs, a full roof replacement could be the best option.
How to Clean Gutters
Cleaning gutters is part of home ownership. Clogged gutters can cause water overflow, leading to foundation damage, lawn issues, and roof damage. Gutters need to be cleaned twice a year.
Cleaning gutters takes a few hours, and first-timers might designate four hours. The process isn't difficult, but it is tedious. Homeowners need to scoop out the debris - and be sure to wear gloves! After removing twigs, leaves, and other debris, flush the gutters with a hose to clean them thoroughly.
Look for any cracks or issues when cleaning the gutters. Replace cracked or damaged gutters, as these flaws can lead to leaks.
FAQ: What to Know about Roof Maintenance
Is roof maintenance necessary in a house?
Regular roof maintenance keeps shingles and roofing material in good condition and maximizes the roof's longevity. Clean gutters twice a year, and pay attention to leaves and debris that settle on the roof. Use a leaf rake to scrape leaves from shingles and rooftops.
How much does roof maintenance cost?
Cleaning gutters and removing leaves is a simple DIY task for homeowners. However, the cost of more extensive maintenance from a professional roofing team depends on the size of the roof and the service performed. Reach out to the Eureka Contracting and Roofing team for roof maintenance and repair quotes.
Is silicone roof coating considered maintenance?
Silicone roof coatings protect the roof and increase the home's energy efficiency during hot summers. Coatings create a 'cool roof' that keeps the sun's rays from warming up the roof and home. Coatings must be maintained to maximize their durability, efficiency, and effectiveness.
What season is best for roof maintenance?
Gutters need to be cleaned twice a year–in fall and spring. During the fall season, homeowners should regularly inspect the roof for debris and leaves.
Is a small roof leak an emergency maintenance?
No leak is a good leak. Small leaks need to be identified and repaired immediately. When homeowners notice water leaks from their roofs, schedule a consultation with the roofing professionals at Eureka Contracting and Roofing.
Schedule a FREE Roof Inspection with Eureka Contracting & Roofing
Roof damage caused by falling leaves and debris must be repaired to hasten further roof damage. Schedule a consultation with Eureka Contracting and Roofing. Contact us today and receive a free quote and recommendations for repairs or a new roof!
Eureka Contracting & Roofing has over 30 years of experience in the construction and insurance industry. We offer free one-on-one consultations to discuss your goals, concerns, and ideas and will provide a free roof evaluation with your best interest in mind. Call 636-938-ROOF or click www.eurekacontracting.com to learn more and schedule your free roof inspection.
About the Author:
Eureka Contracting & Roofing is a top-rated, Veteran-owned, fully licensed, and insured roofing business in Eureka, Missouri. By putting 30 years of experience to work, we ensure that our residential and commercial customer's roofs, gutters, shingles, soffits, and siding are expertly installed, maintained, repaired, or replaced. We make properties better– the proof is in the roof!