Late summer is the best time of year to look at your roof. In Montreal, our roofs go through a lot. They endure hot, bright summer sun, heavy autumn rains, and freezing winter snow.
Checking your roof now can save you a lot of money. A small leak in September can turn into a huge, expensive problem by November!
Here are four simple steps to inspect your roof before the fall weather arrives.
1. Safety First: Stay on the Ground
You do not need to climb onto your roof to inspect it. In fact, it is much safer to stay on the ground.
Grab a pair of binoculars and stand in your yard or across the street. Look up at your roof to see if anything looks wrong. If you live in a Montreal triplex or multi-story home, you can also look out from an upper-floor window.
2. Look for Missing or Damaged Shingles
If you have a sloped roof with shingles, check to see if any are:
- Missing:Â Leaves a bare spot where water can get in.
- Cracked or curled:Â Shows the shingle is old and needs replacement.
- Bare:Â Look for missing tiny colored pebbles (granules).
If you have a flat roof—which is very common in Montreal—you want to look for cracks, bubbles, or spots where water seems to pool and sit.
3. Clear Out Your Gutters
Gutters carry rainwater away from your home. Over the summer, leaves, twigs, and dirt can clog them up.
When gutters are blocked, water backs up. That water can spill over the edges or seep right under your roof. Clean out the debris now so the heavy fall rains can flow freely away from your house.
4. Check Your Attic or Top Floor
Go up to your attic or top floor on a bright day. Look at the ceiling and walls for:
- Dark water stains or rings
- Peeling paint
- A musty, damp smell
- Small spots of light coming through the roof boards
If you spot any of these signs, water is already finding a way inside.
What to Do If You Find a Problem
If you see damage, do not wait. Call a licensed Quebec roofing professional (couvreur) right away. Late summer is a busy time for roofers in Montreal, so booking early ensures your home is protected before the cold weather starts.
A quick roof check today gives you peace of mind all autumn long!