For some, autumn is the most beautiful time of the year. For others, it’s simply the months leading up to Christmas. Whatever the case, it’s an important time for your roof. Autumn marks the end of summer, which means a change in the weather – not to mention all the leaves coming off the trees.
In this post, we’ll discuss the challenges autumnal weather poses for your roof, looking at 3 ways you can look after your roof in autumn.
1. Gutter clearance
Ask most people about autumn and it won’t belong before someone mentions the falling leaves. In contrast to spring, which is the season of new life, autumn is a time when trees start hibernating and let their leaves fall to the floor.
Unfortunately, the floor isn’t the only place they fall. Any buildings with trees around them will likely end up with leaves on their roofs and in their gutters. Leaves can also be blown onto roofs from further afield, so there aren’t many roofs that are exempt.
While leaves might look nice in their various colours, they can be a serious issue for your gutters, especially when they get wet. If your gutters get clogged up with leaves, they will overflow and this could lead to water ingress. The leaves will also add unnecessary pressure to your gutters.
To keep your property protected, you’ll want your gutters to be clear in autumn. With gutters on the perimeter of your roof, this isn’t a job to be doing yourself. Instead, find a local gutter clearance service that will do the job safely and efficiently.
2. Check for leaks
It’s easy to assume your roof is in tip-top condition throughout spring and summer. Lower levels of rainfall mean that smaller issues might not rear their heads from April to August. But that doesn’t mean they’re not there.
When autumn comes around, rainfall typically increases. This makes it the ideal time to check for the first sign of any leaks. Take a look around your ceilings and the top of your walls for any damp spots or discolouration.
If possible, go into your loft and inspect the roof space from inside, looking again for drips or water ingress. You can also do a daylight test, by heading up to your roof during the day and keeping the lights off. If you spot any light coming through, it usually means there’s a break in your roof’s covering.
Have a look at your roof from outside your house at ground level too. If there are any missing tiles, or if anything looks out of place, you’ll want to get it sorted sooner rather than later.
3. Book an inspection
While a DIY check from the ground and inside can spot any obvious issues, the best way to protect your roof in autumn and beyond is by getting a professional inspection. An experienced roofer will be able to safely check every aspect of your roof and flag any problems – or potential problems that could develop in the future.
They can recommend the best course of action to put things right and get the repairs sorted once you’re happy with the quote. By doing this in autumn, you’ll avoid the winter rush and make sure your roof is prepared for the wintry conditions.
Autumn inspections and repairs
If you want to make sure your roof is at its best this autumn – and ready for winter – don’t hesitate to contact DPR Roofing. Our team of roofing experts in Wakefield have over 30 years’ experience in repairs, replacements and gutter clearance.
Give us a call on 01924 255 677 to arrange an inspection or discuss the problems you’re having with your roof this autumn.