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Wet leaves and your dreamy autumn might be an unintended combo for roof disasters waiting to happen. The vibrant fall foliage falls from trees to the ground. It creates a subtle, but big threat to your home’s roof.
But fear not, there are simple measures to stave off the dangers of soggy leaves accumulating on your rooftop. In this article, we’ll explore the perilous potential of wet leaves and arm you with knowledge on how to protect your home’s most vital defense.
Table of Contents
Impair Draining Systems
As leaves pile up, they can clog gutters and downspouts, thwarting water from being properly channeled away from your home. This blockage can lead to water pooling on your roof. The water can seep under shingles, causing leaks and potential water damage inside your home.
Safeguard Strategy:
Ensure your gutters are clear of debris by doing a regular leaf cleanup, especially during the fall. Consider installing gutter guards, mesh screens, or leaf-catchers. These can cut the accumulation of leaves.
Add Weight to Your Roof
Wet leaves, though light individually, get heavier when soaked. This added weight, combined with snow and ice, can strain your roof’s structure and cause collapse in extreme cases.
Safeguard Strategy:
Regularly remove leaves, especially after heavy rainfall, to prevent excessive weight accumulation. Consider hiring a professional like Davidson Landscaping for a leaf pick up service if your roof or the leaf load is particularly large.
Impede Drainage from Additional Debris
Once leaves have formed a dense mat on your roof, they become a collection point for other airborne debris such as twigs, pine needles, and dust. This further compounds the drainage problem and accelerates the deterioration of roofing materials.
Safeguard Strategy:
Regularly inspect your roof for the presence of debris and promptly remove it, especially around punctures or other vulnerable areas. Investing in periodic professional roof inspections can help identify and clear these trouble spots.
Encourage Mildew and Mold Growth
Leaves collecting moisture on your roof create a perfect environment for mildew and mold. This can damage your roof and pose health risks to your family.
Safeguard Strategy:
Keep your roof clear of organic debris and ensure good air circulation to discourage fungal growth. Trim any branches hanging over your roof to minimize the shade and moisture that invites mold.
Provide a Path for Pests
Leaves can attract pests like squirrels, rodents, or insects to your roof and home. They can cause damage or seek shelter, leading to more issues.
Safeguard Strategy:
Trim back overhanging branches and strategically place barriers or deterrents to block pests’ access. If you suspect a pest problem, address it swiftly to minimize damage and prevent recurrence.
Conceal Preexisting Damage
The lively cover of leaves may hide existing damage to your roof, making it difficult for you to detect issues on time. This visual obstruction can delay much-needed repairs, allowing problems to worsen.
Safeguard Strategy:
If you suspect roof damage, carefully move aside leaves to inspect your roof’s condition. Promptly address any concerns or call a professional for examination if you’re not comfortable with your assessment.
Prevent The Damage Wet Leaves Can Cause to Your Roof
By recognizing the potential risks of wet leaves to your roof and implementing proactive tactics to mitigate them, you can ensure the longevity and functionality of this critical element of your home. Don’t wait for the sky to fall-act now to protect the shelter over your head from the silent leafy menace of autumn.
