Fallen Leaves: How Can They Damage Your Roof?

The primary role of your roof is to protect your home against the elements. While shingles are usually made from durable materials, they can still develop issues when not cared for properly. Poor habits, such as allowing leaves to pile up on your roof could lead to extensive damage that requires costly repairs. It could also speed up the deterioration of roofing materials, resulting in early failure.  

Continue reading to find out what fallen leaves can do to residential roofing systems. 

How Can Fallen Leaves Damage Your Roof?

When it rains and leaves get soaked, they can harm shingles. You must get rid of them immediately before water damage, rot and structural issues occur. Rotted shingles will break easily, and once holes and gaps develop, water will eventually find its way inside your home. Undetected leaks are one of the most common causes of structural damage in the attic. 

Excessive buildup of fallen leaves could put a strain on your roof. Wet leaves could retain moisture and become really heavy. The added weight can stress your roof’s underlayment and your home’s support beams.  

What Can You Do to Prevent It?

Clean Your Gutters Regularly

Gutters must be clog-free to drain water from your roof effectively. An inefficient gutter system can cause roof damage, basement flooding, foundation damage and other costly issues. You must have it cleaned regularly and replaced or repaired if necessary. At Northeast Gutters and Remodeling, we are here for your gutter installation, cleaning and maintenance needs. 

Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

Many times, homeowners are unaware of how much leaves have already built up on their roofs. You won’t know what’s up there unless you schedule an inspection. Let a professional see your roof at least once a year and after a weather event. It’s also a good idea to do a visual inspection from the ground every couple of months to see if the shingles have been damaged or if debris has built up on the roof. 

Trim Trees

One of the easiest ways to minimize debris on your roof and gutters is to trim back trees around your property. Trees can help shade your home during summer and help keep your indoor spaces cool. However, they can cause heavy debris buildup during the fall. 

Turn to Northeast Gutters and Remodeling for quality home exterior services. We specialize in roof replacement, siding installation and more! Call us at (860) 899-7878, or fill out our contact form to get an estimate.