Fall Roof Maintenance Checklist for Idaho Falls, Rigby, and Rexburg
A quick fall tune-up protects your roof before winter. Use this checklist to clear gutters, inspect flashing and penetrations, seal exposed fasteners, and confirm attic ventilation.
Do these steps before the first sustained freeze so snow and ice do not trap moisture.
At a glance
- Gutters and downspouts: clear debris and confirm smooth drainage.
- Flashing and penetrations: check step flashing, chimney areas, pipe boots, and sealants.
- Shingle surface: look for lifted tabs, exposed fasteners, and missing granules.
- Attic ventilation: verify open intake and exhaust, and look for daylight leaks or damp insulation.
- Tree limbs: trim branches that hang over the roof line.
Quick checklist you can print
| Task | Goal | Done |
|---|---|---|
| Clean gutters and flush downspouts | Prevent overflow, ice buildup, and fascia damage | □ |
| Inspect step and chimney flashing | Seal gaps that allow wind-driven rain and meltwater | □ |
| Reseal pipe boots and exposed fasteners | Stop small leaks before winter | □ |
| Ground-level shingle scan with binoculars | Spot lifted tabs, missing shingles, or creases | □ |
| Attic check for daylight and damp insulation | Catch early leak or ventilation issues | □ |
| Trim branches near eaves and ridge | Reduce abrasion and storm breakage | □ |
If anything looks questionable, schedule a professional inspection before snow season.
How to complete each step safely
- Prepare and protect. Use sturdy ladders on level ground, gloves, and eye protection. Keep someone nearby while you work.
- Clear gutters. Remove leaves and grit, then run water to confirm downspouts flow freely. Check for leaks at seams and miters.
- Inspect flashing. From the ground or ladder, check step flashing at sidewalls, chimney counter-flashing, and headwalls. Look for gaps or rust. Reseal minor joints with compatible roofing sealant.
- Seal penetrations. Examine pipe boots and any exposed fasteners. Replace cracked boots and reseal exposed nail heads with a roofing-grade sealant.
- Shingle surface scan. With binoculars, look for missing shingles, lifted tabs, or creases near the shingle lines. Note any areas that need repair.
- Attic ventilation and moisture. Verify that soffit vents are open and not blocked by insulation. Check for damp insulation, stains, or daylight at sheathing joints.
- Trim vegetation. Cut back branches that can rub shingles or dump heavy snow loads onto the roof.
When to call Idaho Roofing
In Idaho Falls, Rigby, Rexburg, and nearby towns, fall winds and early freezes can turn small issues into winter leaks.
If you see creased tabs, widespread granule loss, soft spots, or flashing gaps, book a professional inspection.
We can also install heat cables in problem eaves and confirm proper ice and water shield at vulnerable areas.
Roof Maintenance Service
Gutter Cleaning and Repairs
Schedule a Fall Inspection
FAQs
When should I clean gutters in Eastern Idaho?
Clean in fall after most leaves drop, then check again after the first freeze-thaw cycle. If you have heavy tree cover, plan on a mid-season sweep.
Do heat cables solve ice dams?
Heat cables can reduce ice at problem eaves, but they do not fix the root cause. Air sealing, balanced ventilation, and insulation address the source of ice dams.
Is moss a concern in our climate?
Moss is less common here than in coastal climates, yet north-facing slopes and shaded areas can grow algae or lichens. Avoid pressure washing. Use roof-safe cleaners and protect landscaping.
Can I do this without getting on the roof?
Yes. Most checks can be done from the ground with binoculars and from the attic. Leave roof-level work to trained crews.