Leaf Management
It is getting to be that time of year again, where the leaves will start turning colors and start falling from the trees, which means here in Brandermill, more leaves will be gathering on roofs, in gutters, and on yards.
While it is a rule (Residential Design Standard, 11.1.1 D & E and 11.1.2 A) to keep your roof and gutters relatively clean of leaves and debris, it’s important to know why. Having an excess of leaves sitting on your roof and in your gutters is a hazard to your house.
Dead leaves over time decay and will trap moisture against roof shingles. This creates a perfect condition for mold, algae, and wood rot. Mold and algae can significantly reduce the lifespan of your roof. Therefore, it is very important to remove the leaves periodically before it becomes a potential issue. Other, long-term solutions are trimming back tree branches that touch, or are close, to your roof. This will help leaves fall on your lawn rather than your roof, as well as help prevent insects from using tree branches as bridges to your home.
Gutters tend to get filled up with leaves, pine needles, seeds, branches, and other natural debris, which if left in the gutters will absorb water and weigh down your gutters. As time goes by, the gutters could start to pull away from the house and possibly damage the exterior of your home.
With all this cleaning of the roofs and gutters, your yard should not be neglected either. Please remember that heavy accumulations of leaves in front yards, over finished landscaping, or that extend over pavement, curbs, ditches, and/or into the street, are not permitted per Residential Design Standard, 11.1.1 E. Remember to properly dispose of your leaves and debris in the proper manner.
-Tasha Rempfer, Compliance Manager
