Fall is a beautiful season, but it can also be messy for homeowners. Leaves can clutter yards, gutters, drains, and landscaping beds, even if they look picturesque. Leaves stuck on the roof may seem harmless, but they can cause problems by clogging the gutter system and disrupting water flow, leading to foundational flooding and water damage. Additionally, leaves on your roof can detract from your home’s curb appeal. So, how do you get leaves off a roof safely?
Steps to Get Leaves Off of a Roof
Select a sunny, dry day. Wet leaves are difficult to remove and make the roof slippery. Aim for a windless day to avoid battling gusts while working. Ensure roof safety by only climbing on the roof if the pitch is low and safe to walk on. Roofs with a pitch greater than 18.4 degrees are considered steep and dangerous.
- Secure the ladder on stable ground. Have someone spot you while you climb and work. Always maintain three points of contact with the ladder.
- Use a rope to hoist the leaf blower up the ladder. Do not carry it in your hand while climbing.
- Wear gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear to protect yourself.
- Remove Leaves from the Roof
- Start at one corner and blow leaves down and across the shingles, not against them, to avoid damaging the roof. Aim to blow leaves to an area without gutters.
- For steep roofs, use the rake to pull leaves down while staying safely on the ground.
- Clean the Gutters
- Move around the perimeter of your house with a ladder, scooping out leaves from the gutters.
- Use this tool to clean gutters from the ground, speeding up the process and reducing the need for a ladder.
- After removing the leaves, inspect the roof and gutters for any remaining debris.
- Repeat the process as necessary throughout the fall to keep your roof clear.
