With fall on the way, it’s time to prepare your home for the colder months. From your roof and siding to windows and gutters, prepping your exteriors to handle the rigors of winter starts now. Here are some fall cleanup tips to ensure your exteriors are in top shape as we head into autumn. And if you need help with anything from gutter cleaning to roof repair, consult with a trusted Troy contractor to make it happen.
Roof Inspection
Start by inspecting your roof for missing or damaged shingles, loose flashing, or visible wear and tear. Don’t assume just because it’s a small issue that it can’t morph into a larger one. Even minor issues can result in major leaks, especially under fall’s heavy rains and winter’s snow loads. Inspecting your roof now will help to prevent ice dams and interior water damage later.
Clean and Maintain Gutters
Scoop leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters and downspouts so water can flow freely away from your home. Clogs and overflows can cause a lot of damage to your siding and the gutters themselves. Even if you have gutter guards, you still need regular inspections and cleaning.
Seal Windows and Doors
Check seals and weatherstripping around windows and doors, and replace any cracked caulk or worn-out strips. When you make sure your windows and doors are sealed properly, this can keep out drafts, reduce energy costs, and prevent moisture infiltration.
Clean Siding, Windows and Screens
Dirt, falling leaves, and debris can reduce the curb appeal and longevity of your siding and windows. Power-wash your siding, hose down window frames, and remove screens to do a deeper clean.
Trim Trees and Manage Landscape
If there are overhanging branches that could threaten your roof or home in a storm, trim them back. Clear leaves from roofs, walkways, and gutters to help with drainage and protect your landscaping.
Protect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
To keep your plumbing system from freezing or bursting this winter:
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses
- Cover outdoor taps
- Drain sprinkler systems
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if you’re a handy homeowner, you could miss subtle signs of wear and tear, especially when it comes to your roof. This is why it’s important to schedule regular inspections with a Troy roofer. Identifying areas of concern in fall means they can be fixed before the winter sets in.
Don’t Neglect the Attic and Ventilation
A majority of fall prep focuses on your home’s exterior, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your attic and ventilation systems. A well-insulated and properly ventilated attic will help to prevent ice dams. With poor ventilation, heat can build up beneath the roof, melt snow, then refreeze at the eaves. This causes a backup of water under shingles, resulting in hidden leaks, damaged insulation, and costly repairs.
This fall, be sure to check for:
- Clear ventilation pathways
- Proper attic insulation coverage
- Signs of mold, moisture, or pests
Sign Up For a Seasonal Maintenance Plan
It can be overwhelming to stay on top of every seasonal task, which is why many homeowners explore professional seasonal maintenance plans with their Troy contractors. From scheduled roof and gutter inspections to minor repairs and cleaning, these maintenance plans can take place automatically according to the seasons.
Contact McLean Roofing and Siding Today
If you don’t want to tackle the above fall cleanup tasks, just leave it up to our Troy roofers! Contact us at (248) 524-1111 to schedule your free no-obligation estimate and consultation.