Updated on May 12, 2023
Rain gutters serve as a drainage system from your home’s roofline to protect your roof and prevent mold, mildew, and other water damage to your home. Attached to your roof’s fascia board, they’re positioned at a slight angle at the bottom of your roof to collect and direct water to the downspouts and safely away from your home’s foundation. Let’s explore the importance of maintaining the flow of rainwater away from your home with proper gutter maintenance and the consequences of a clogged gutter system.
Consequences of Clogged Gutters
It can be hard to keep an eye on things around your home, especially when they are literally over your head. But something seemingly out of sight, like rain gutters, can have a big impact on your home’s long-term health.
When you fail to clean your gutters regularly, you’ll often encounter:
- Water damage to your home’s foundation, interior and exterior walls, roof, and even your property – Clogged or damaged gutters can cause water to leak down your walls and pool at the base of your home, eventually leaking down into your foundation.
- Pest infestations – Insects, birds, and rodents love it when gutters are clogged with rotting leaves, debris, and standing water. Leaves are a perfect food source and home for pests while standing water makes an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.
- Mold growth – Wet leaves left in your gutter decompose and rot allowing mold to grow and thrive, discoloring your gutters and possibly leading to health problems if it enters your home.
- Fire hazard – Accumulated leaves and branches in your gutter can lead to a potential fire, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Damaged gutters – Over time dirty gutters become damaged and need to be repaired or replaced.
How Gutters Get Clogged
Wind, rain, and dry weather can cause leaves, twigs, and other debris to fall into your gutters, clogging them and preventing water from flowing through them freely. If you have numerous trees close to your home, debris can accumulate even faster.
Built up debris and overflowing rainwater not only cause home and roof damage but can also lead to damaged gutters. Many gutter systems are made of aluminum and the accumulated debris and materials can corrode the aluminum, leading to broken gutters that will need to be replaced. When this happens it’s imperative to replace damaged gutters with a new quality gutter system to protect your home.
The Importance of Regular Gutter Cleaning
Cleaning your gutters may be a dreaded chore, but it’s one of the most important things you can do to maintain your home’s value and prevent water damage to your property. Clean gutters keep water running smoothly down and away from your home’s roof and foundation, saving you money on future unexpected and expensive repairs while protecting your home’s stability and value for possible future owners.
How to Clean Gutters
Keeping your gutters looking their best takes time and effort. Whether you choose to manage their upkeep yourself or hire a professional gutter cleaning service to do the job, it’s recommended to clean your gutters twice a year, in the Spring and Fall. Be sure to check your gutters periodically throughout the summer and winter months too for any clogging or damage.
If you choose the DIY route, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment needed to complete the job and make practicing safety a priority. Don’t take unnecessary risks that might cost you more in medical bills than gutter repairs. When you clean your gutters, be sure to remove all built-up debris and pests either by hand or with a shop vac or leaf blower. Next, flush out your gutter with a power washer or garden hose, being careful not to damage your gutters during the process. Be sure to double check your downspouts and gutters when you’re finished for any damage in case they need to be replaced.
Call a Professional If Your Gutters are Damaged
Sometimes, even with regular maintenance, gutters can become damaged or develop leaks over time. When this happens it’s important to schedule a visit with a professional gutter replacement service to allow them to evaluate any damage and determine if your gutters need to be replaced. Gutter professionals have the tools and knowledge needed to properly assess your gutter system and its functionality. They are prepared to thoroughly examine your gutters and go over any questions you may have.
Signs that it’s time to call a professional gutter service include:
- Cracks in your gutters and downspouts
- Gutters that are separating from the house
- Gutters that are sagging or bowing
- Gutters that are leaking
- Water damage to your roof, walls, foundation, or property
- Peeling paint around your gutters or downspouts
- Rotting fascia and soffit
Maintain Quality Gutters for Years to Come
We understand that maintaining the value, integrity, and beauty of your home and property is important to you. Regular observation and upkeep of your gutters is a vital way to do that but if you notice any signs of damage to your gutters, don’t hesitate to contact our team of gutter professionals at G&S Insulating today for a free consultation. We’re here to ensure your home is protected with a quality gutter system for many years to come.