When the sweltering summer heat starts to abide and the cooler weather rolls in, Coloradoans start to think about the arrival of Fall and Winter. Getting ready for shorter days and the prospect of snowfall might entail a trip to the thrift store to pick up a few extra coats or snow shovels, but what about getting your roof ready for the upcoming cold season?
Think about it: during Fall and Winter, your roof puts in overtime protecting you and your family from water leaks, debris, and cold air, and it doesn’t even ask for a paycheck! In order to get the most out of the investment that was made into your roof, there are some basic maintenance checklist items that you should address in the weeks leading up to Fall (which starts September 22nd).
Right now is the best time to give your roof a once-over, and the roofing professionals at A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors are here to help by providing you with this handy checklist.
First Things First: Check for Damage
The most critical issues affecting roofs in Colorado have to do with worn or damaged shingles, tiles, flashing, or other roofing material.
For some homes, taking a trip around the perimeter of the building is sufficient in detecting obvious damage like buckled or curled shingles, chipped tiles, or other wear-and-tear. However, most homes are going to require a trip onto the roof itself for a more involved inspection.
While it is suggested that you conduct a physical inspection of your roof before Fall, it’s also highly recommended that you do so safely. Always wear fall protection equipment, and be sure to work with a partner who can help to ensure your safety at all times.
While you’re up there, check for things like:
- Accumulation of moss
- Bare spots on asphalt shingles (where the granules might have eroded)
- Cracked caulking
- Rusted flashing
- Damaged roof overhangs
- Any warping, bubbling, lifting, or depressed roof sections
If you do see any obvious signs of dilapidation or disrepair, make note of it and be sure to contact the roofing professionals at A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors for a more thorough examination. It’s possible that the damage you’re seeing is only the tip of the iceberg, and more extensive damage might exist in the roof underlayment.
Conduct a Thorough Gutter and Downspout Cleaning
Fall in Colorado brings with it the natural shedding of leaves and other debris among our environment. To prepare for the inevitable deluge of organic matter that is bound to make its way to your rooftop, take some time to properly clean your gutters and downspouts.
If your home is located underneath especially thick tree coverage, consider adding gutter guards to help protect from excessive debris accumulation.
Don’t forget: many gutters and downspouts are constructed of extruded aluminum or other metal alloys, and their edges can be quite sharp. Always wear thick gloves and a long-sleeved shirt to protect from cuts and abrasions.
Check Interior Spaces for Water Damage or Deteriorated Insulation
When making your way through this roof maintenance checklist, be sure to make a trip to the attic and other crawl spaces in your home.
Check for signs of water intrusion. Often, these can be found in corners or edges of the attic or crawl space, and they might exist even if there is no obvious roof damage above them.
When checking your insulation, be sure to look for peeling, torn, moist, or otherwise damaged sections. Repair the affected areas yourself, or call in the experts for extensive insulation repair tasks.
Trim Back Tree Branches and Other Foliage
Falling tree branches account for a large percentage of roof damage that is incurred in Colorado every season. High winds are known for sending thick, heavy branches down onto vulnerable roofs, something that can be thwarted by proactively trimming back your trees.
Take extra precautions if tree trimming requires the use of ladders, and don’t get overconfident with your work; call in the pros if you’re not comfortable doing the work yourself.
Inspect Vents, Stovepipes, Chimneys, and Skylights
Long-term exposure to the harsh Colorado climate can often compromise the flashing and sealants that are used to waterproof roofs where certain hardware is installed. Look for splits or cracks in these areas, and take action to repair them before the colder weather gets here.
Lastly, always remember that A-to-Z Roofing & Exteriors is just a phone call away when you need help with protecting, repairing, or replacing your roof. Contact us today for a free estimate.
We’re proud to be your go-to Colorado roofing company for life!
For a guide to Spring roof tune-ups, be sure to check out our 5-Step Spring Roof Tune Up for Coloradoans.