Autumn is the single most useful time to look at a roof. Getting ahead of the leaves, and dealing with small faults before the wet and windy months, is what keeps a roof watertight through a North West winter.
The autumn checklist
- Clear gutters and valleys — the big one, before and after leaf fall; see why gutters overflow and how trees affect gutters.
- Check tiles and slates — replace anything slipped or cracked before the winds arrive; see slipped tiles.
- Inspect flashings and mortar — repair cracked ridge and chimney mortar before freeze-thaw sets in.
- Look for moss — clear heavy growth that blocks drainage on shaded slopes.
An hour in autumn saves a leak in January.
Most winter roof emergencies trace back to a small fault that was visible — and fixable — in the autumn.
- Next: how to prepare your roof for winter.
- Want an autumn check done? Find a local NFRC member roofer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally once the bulk of the leaves have fallen, and again if you’re under heavy tree cover. Clear gutters going into winter are one of the best defences against damp walls.
Sources & Methodology
- Roof Helpline editorial standards — How we research and review roofing guidance.
