As we lean towards winter, homeowners have a seemingly endless checklist of seasonal tasks—raking leaves, checking for drafts, winterizing systems, and yet one essential job often goes unnoticed—the removal of dead leaves, tree branches, and pine needles from our roofs. As we see it, there are three critical risks of leaving fallen leaves on your roof. Learn more about these issues and make a plan to remove your leaves or hire a professional to ward off future damage.
Water Damage
Leaf accumulation happens everywhere, from our lawn to our roofline. While it initially seems like a picturesque scene, beneath the charm lies a potential threat—water damage. “The water damage from not removing leaves from a roof can be destructive. Roofs are intended to be water-shedding, allowing it to drain downward and away from a house. Leaves can get in the way of water being able to drain properly from a roof, which can lead to water infiltration into a home and visible damage to the framing, roof sheathing, and insulation. This deterioration over time can also affect the R-value of the insulation, making a home less energy efficient, and in colder climates, increases the risk of ice dams, which can cause significant damage to both roofs and the interior of homes,” warns Mike Thomas, CARE Training Lead at GAF.
It's important to think proactively. Before the first snowfall lands, remove dead leaves and pine needles to prevent roof damage and hefty repairs.
Clogged Gutters
Tree debris has a sneaky way of finding its way into our gutters, creating a domino effect of issues including damage to shingles. "Wet leaves can also erode the mineral granules on roofing shingles, causing the granules to fall into the gutter over time," shares Thomas. The erosion of roofing materials not only compromises the effectiveness of the gutters but also sets the stage for more severe issues down the line including:
- Water runoff. A waterfall from your roof gutter can lead to ground-level pooling near the foundation, which causes costly issues including basement flooding, foundation damage, and other structural issues. It also erodes the landscaping.
- Ice dam development. In colder climates, clogged gutters can contribute to the formation of ice dams. This can cause structural damage as water backs up under the shingles, potentially causing roof leaks and extensive damage.
- Growth of mold and mildew. Stagnant water in clogged gutters breeds mold and mildew. This can even impact the exterior walls of the house, leading to health issues and additional maintenance costs.
- Gutter damage. The extra weight of damp leaves, pine needles, and water in clogged gutters can cause it to sag or pull away from the house.
Even Tim Walz underscores the importance of maintaining fall leaves, and he isn't just talking about homes in his home state of Minnesota. As he shared on SubwayTakes with Kareem Rahma, "The most neglected part of homeownership the gutters. It's personal for me. You get your basement wet, you get ice dams, it causes a lot of problems."
Pests
A seemingly harmless pile of leaves on the roof becomes an open invitation to pests. Bugs, rodents, and birds find refuge in this leafy haven, potentially causing substantial damage to your shingles and the overall roofing structure. As temperatures drop, these unwanted guests seek warmth and shelter, turning your roof into an unintended habitat.
The Importance of Safe Leaf Removal
In light of these potential dangers, it's important to prioritize leaf removal every fall. A homeowner with a low-pitched roof can use a variety of tools like electric leaf blowers or roof rakes with extension poles to decrease the likelihood of water damage but always approach leaf removal with caution and expertise. Attempting to scale your roof for this task can be risky. Falls from roofs are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths among adults worldwide. This is where certified roofing professionals come into play and gutter cleaning services benefit homeowners.
Mike Thomas emphasizes this point. "Leaves on roof shingles, especially when wet, can create a slick surface, forming a slip hazard. Some removal of leaves must also take place from the top of a ladder where an individual is not able to be fully tied off, which poses the risk of falling from the ladder and resulting in life-threatening injuries. A highly experienced certified roofing professional knows how to navigate these areas and avoid injury during the process. As an added benefit, having a roofing professional complete this service gives the opportunity for a full inspection and evaluation of the condition of the roof where they can identify potential issues such as maintenance concerns or any storm damage that may have occurred."
So, as the leaves change color and fall gracefully around us, let's not forget the unseen dangers they pose to our roofs. Prioritize the removal of leaves from your roof this fall, whether it be from ground level with a telescoping leaf rake, or by engaging a certified roofing professional. With proper attention, you can safeguard your home from neglect and manage the accumulation of leaves. Your roof, and the peace of mind that comes with it, will thank you.
