It is time to get ready for fall. As the leaves change and the weather gets colder, homeowners and contractors should start planning ahead. A roof that isn’t taken care of in the fall can become a big problem in the winter. A lot of roofing problems can be avoided, but little mistakes now can lead to expensive repairs later. This article talks about the most common mistakes people make when taking care of their roofs in the fall and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Not paying attention to small signs of damage

A missing shingle, a small leak, or a metal panel that is a little bent can be easy to miss. But these “small” problems can get worse very quickly. Water gets into cracks and seams, which can cause rot, mold, or damage to the structure.

Don’t do it: Look at your roof early in the fall, when the weather is nice. Even the smallest signs of damage should be recorded by contractors, and they should tell homeowners to act before heavy rains come.

Mistake 2: Not Cleaning the Gutters and Downspouts

One of the main reasons for water damage is clogged gutters. Rainwater backs up under shingles or overflows near foundations when leaves and other debris block the flow of water. This causes leaks in the roof and floods in the basement.

Don’t do it: At least twice in the fall, clean your gutters. Put in gutter guards to keep them safe for a long time. This is something that contractors can offer as an extra service during seasonal inspections.

Mistake 3: Not paying attention to flashing and sealants

Most roofs have weak spots where the flashing meets the chimney, skylight, or vent. If flashing is loose, cracked, or not sealed well, it will leak. But a lot of homeowners forget to look in these places.

Don’t do it: Check all of the flashing and use a good sealant where it is needed. To make sure that the products last through the wet and cold months, contractors should suggest professional-grade ones.

In the winter, ice dams can’t form in attics that have good ventilation. Without it, moisture builds up inside, which leads to condensation, mold, and less energy efficiency.

Don’t do it: Check that the vents are clear and that air can flow freely. Homeowners should be taught by contractors how good ventilation can make roofs last longer

Mistake 5: Putting off professional inspections

Some homeowners try to do all the upkeep on their own. Doing things yourself is helpful, but it can’t replace professional knowledge. Untrained eyes may not see damage that contractors can see. If you wait until winter to get help, it will usually cost more and take longer.

Don’t do it: Make an appointment for an inspection in early fall. This time of year is a good time for contractors to offer cheap packages and build trust over time.

Mistake 6: Using the Wrong Things to Fix Things Quickly

Some people use cheap shingles, panels that don’t match, or temporary sealants when they need to fix something quickly. These quick fixes often don’t work when fall storms and winter freezes put them to the test.

Don’t do it. Buy high-quality materials that match the roof you already have. Homeowners should ask suppliers about how long the products will last, and contractors should talk about how much money they can save by using the right ones from the start.

Mistake 7: Not paying attention to tree branches and trash

Branches that hang over the roof can scrape shingles, drop leaves, and break during storms, which can cause a lot of damage. A lot of homeowners wait until it’s too late to cut them.

Don’t do it: Cut back branches in early fall. To keep the roof clean and safe, remove debris after storms.

Last List for Homeowners and Contractors

• Look at the roof surface (shingles, metal, or TPO).
• Clean out the gutters and downspouts.
• Check the flashing and seal any weak spots.
• Make sure there is ventilation in the attic and on the roof.
• Set up a professional check-up.
• For all repairs, use good materials.
• Cut back branches that hang over.

Get our free fall roofing maintenance checklist to help you remember what needs to be done and avoid making expensive mistakes.

Your roof is the first thing that protects your home from rain, wind, and cold. If you don’t make these common mistakes when maintaining your home in the fall, you’ll save time, money, and stress. For contractors, fall is the best time to teach clients, make connections, and offer solutions that keep winter emergencies from happening. 
We at BRS Roofing Supply have the high-quality shingles, metal panels, TPO systems, and other tools that contractors and homeowners need to get the job done right. Contact us today to receive a quote and prepare your roof for fall with confidence.