Fall is the perfect time for roof maintenance, especially in West Michigan with winter approaching. By doing a quick inspection yourself or having us out for a thorough (and free) roof inspection, you can catch any problems before the cold, snowy months are upon us. Plus, if there is work to be done on your roof, fall weather is much more comfortable for doing roof repair or replacement than summer when the heat can be oppressive.

The Perfect Time for a Roof Inspection

Even if you have a relatively new roof and are certain you won’t need to do any extensive work and definitely won’t need to consider a roof replacement, you should still inspect your roof in the fall. By keeping your roof in pristine condition, it’ll last longer and make your investment all the more valuable. Since unexpected things can happen throughout the summer, particularly during thunderstorms, it never hurts to confirm your roof is still in great shape.

Your Fall Roof Maintenance Checklist

There are several things you can do to give you and your family peace of mind that your roof is ready for the winter.

Look at Your Roof

The first thing you should do is a visual roof inspection from the ground. You’ll be able to see any obvious signs of damage, such as missing shingles, without having to climb up a ladder. For help knowing what to look for during your visual inspection, check out our post on three signs you need to replace your roof.

Clean the Gutters

You should be cleaning your gutters at least twice a year if you can, once in the spring and once in the fall. The fall cleaning is especially important as you want your gutters to be clear and ready to handle all the precipitation we experience with a West Michigan winter. Getting rid of leaves, twigs, dirt, and other detritus will help prevent ice dams and icicles throughout the winter.

Check the Flashing

While you’re up there cleaning the gutters, take a closer look at your roof and flashing. If the flashing is loose, re-caulk it to ensure it’s secure during the winter.

Inspect Ventilation and Insulation

Proper ventilation and insulation is key to preventing ice dams and icicles. Not sure you have what you need? You can always call us or take a look at our post on how to choose the right insulation for your home.

Trim Trees if Necessary

If you have tree limbs hanging over your roof, it may be a good idea to trim them prior to winter. Storms or even heavy snow can result in limbs falling. The damage could be relatively small, such as loose granules or shingles, or the damage could be much worse (and much more dangerous) if the limb puts a huge hole in your roof. Take care of any unsafe branches in advance.

Get Your Free Roof Inspection

After you’ve gone through our fall roof maintenance checklist, if you see any potential issues or if you’d rather have the pros give your roof a full inspection, contact us and schedule an appointment.

We’ll check for any potential issues and give you a free quote for any required roof replacement or repair. When you take care of your roof in the fall, your roof will take care of you throughout the winter.