When September arrives in Southern Maryland, leaves, windy rain, and quick cold snaps aren’t far behind. Now’s the moment to give your roof and gutters the attention they need—before clogs, leaks, and water damage show up.
Why September?
Mild temps make inspections, sealing, and small repairs easier. Addressing issues now protect fascia and foundations, and it helps your home breeze through fall storms.
Checklist
- Full roof scan: Look for lifted or missing shingles, cracked pipe boots, popped nails, and soft decking at eaves/valleys.
- Flashing & skylights: Re-seal or re-flash around chimneys, walls, and skylights to prevent wind-driven rain intrusion.
- Clean gutters/downspouts: Clear debris; extend downspouts 4–6 ft from the foundation. Consider gutter guards if you’re “tree heavy”.
- Attic check: Dark stains, wet insulation, or visible daylight are red flags.
- Soffits & vents: Make sure intake/exhaust ventilation is clear to reduce moisture buildup.
- Trees & storm prep: Trim dead limbs; keep tarps/flashlights handy and snap datestamped exterior photos for insurance records. When to call a pro
When to call a pro
- Shingles creased or missing, granules collecting in gutters
- Persistent staining on ceilings or around skylights
- Sagging or overflowing gutters even after cleaning
FAQs
How often should I clean gutters?
At least twice yearly, late spring and early fall. More often if you have heavy tree cover.
Do gutter guards eliminate cleaning?
They reduce debris but don’t fully eliminate maintenance. You’ll still want seasonal checks.