Fall in Metro Atlanta means falling leaves, cooler nights and the occasional strong storm. A little attention now can prevent leaks this winter. Here is a simple checklist to work through.
1. Clean the gutters and downspouts
Leaves and pine straw clog gutters fast. When gutters back up, water can spill under the roof edge and rot the fascia and decking. Clear them out, and check that downspouts drain away from your foundation.
2. Clear debris off the roof
Leaves that pile up in valleys and behind chimneys hold moisture against the shingles. A clean roof dries faster and lasts longer. If you cannot reach it safely from a ladder, leave it to a professional.
3. Trim overhanging branches
Branches that rub against the roof wear away granules, and limbs that overhang the house are the ones that come down in storms. Trimming them back reduces both risks.
4. Look for missing or damaged shingles
From the ground, use binoculars to look for missing, curled or cracked shingles, especially after summer storms. Small problems are cheaper to fix before cold, wet weather arrives.
5. Check flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights
Many leaks start where the roof meets something else. Look for gaps, rust or lifted flashing. Our post on why roofs leak around attic vents explains one of the most common trouble spots.
6. Check the attic
On a sunny day, look for daylight coming through the roof boards, water stains, damp insulation or musty smells. These are early signs of a leak.
7. Schedule a professional inspection
If your roof is getting older or you have had storms this year, a professional inspection before winter is worth it. A roofer can spot damage you cannot see from the ground and tell you whether anything needs attention now. See our roofing FAQs for more answers.
Need a roof inspection?
Emergency Roofing Solutions serves homeowners across Metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Call 404-474-4222 (a live person answers 24/7) or schedule a free roof assessment.