Leaves that fall on your roof can cause issues that will shorten your roof's lifespan. Here, we share how fallen leaves can damage your roof and ways you can prevent it. 

How Can Fallen Leaves Damage Your Roof?

Can Fallen Leaves Damage Your Roof?

Leaves can shorten the lifespan of your roofing system. After rainfall, leaves remain wet, exposing your roofing material to excess moisture for an extended period. This can lead to the early deterioration of your shingles, which causes your roof to be susceptible to leaks, water damage and structural issues.

Wet leaves can rot, crack, warp and damage asphalt shingles. Water from the leaves can get under broken or missing shingles and eventually cause water damage to the sheathing and rafters.

Furthermore, leaves that remain wet after a storm are heavier, adding to the weight of your roof. They can also push against the shingles, warping the material and compromising the sheathing and rafters. 

How to Prevent Damage From Fallen Leaves

Prevent roof damage from fallen leaves by regularly performing the following tasks:

  • Trim Back Tree Branches

Trees are the source of falling leaves during fall. After summer, cut off overhanging branches above and near your roof to prevent leaves from ending up on your roof and gutters. If the branches are too large, hire experts to trim or cut them off.

  • Gutter Cleaning

Leaves and nests trapped inside gutters will cause clogging, preventing the system from properly draining water runoff. Hire a residential roof repair contractor to clean your gutters regularly.

  • Perform a Roof Inspection

A visual inspection is enough to see if leaves are accumulating on your roof. You should also check for broken and missing shingles as well as clogged gutters. If your roof is too high to observe, schedule a regular roof inspection and maintenance service from your trusted local contractor.

Need high-quality roofing services? Turn to the best residential roof installation, repair and maintenance experts — Hershey Exteriors, Inc. Call us at (302) 569-9039, or fill out this contact form for a free consultation.