Roof Repairs in Autumn

Roof Repairs in Autumn

 

Autumn and winter are the most common seasons for roof repairs, but act early and you can avoid a lot of headache — and unnecessary bills. While many homeowners, especially in Utah, think that winter does the most damage, you shouldn’t underestimate autumn.

Snow, hail or ice might not be hitting your roof quite yet, but autumn comes with its own issues. For starters, it’s time for critters and pests to start settling down for winter, and they often use your roof as a path to warmer quarters.

As soon as the leaves start to turn color, your roof will have to work twice as hard to keep you safe and dry. In fact, the leaves themselves can cause all kinds of problems. Combined with rain, leaves can become incredibly heavy while simultaneously clogging downspouts and gutters. They can also fester and breed mold and fungus. Finally, they’re a fantastic hiding spot for pests.

One of the best ways to avoid debris buildup in the autumn is simply to have an arborist trim back trees that hang over your roof.

Back to School, Back to Roofing Basics

In some Utah regions, once the snow begins to fall, you won’t be able to see your roof for weeks or even months. Take the time now to scan your roof for broken or missing shingles. It’s dangerous to do this with a ladder, but a pair of binoculars can work great. You also should call a roofer for a full autumn inspection, since he or she will, of course, be able to pinpoint problem areas much more easily than you can. Repairing shingles, dents or minor leaks now will prevent bigger and more expensive fixes in the future.

You may also need to have a pro set some humane traps if you have a problem with raccoons, squirrels or other creatures damaging your roof as they prepare for their own holiday season. At the same time, insects and birds might be feasting on your roofing materials without you even knowing it. This can be especially true with nonmetal roofing options such as wood.

Sun Damage: It’s Not Just for Your Skin

The summer heatwaves can really do damage to your roof, which may be vulnerable to UV rays. Now is the time to check on how your roof weathered the summer heat — it may be best to add a layer of UV protection moving forward. Different roofing materials naturally have different UV protection. However, adding a sealant can increase your roof’s durability and ultimately extend its life.

Finally, you might be getting ready to string holiday lights along your roof. A professional can do this or you can DIY, but either way, it requires a roof that’s in good shape. Make sure you’re ready for winter by calling The Roof Doctor for all your roofing needs, including maintenance and repairs.

 

Share This Content