The Few and the Fearless: A Blog About Roofers

Without proper drainage, the rainwater that falls on your roof may enter your home, causing a flood and subsequent water damage. Your gutters help cushion against this by directing roof runoff into your stormwater drain or rainwater harvesting system. Keeping them in tip-top shape should be high on your home maintenance priority list.

Here's what you can do to take proper care of your gutters.

1. Clean Your Gutters 

During storms, the rain and wind can bring fallen leaves, twigs, and other loose debris into your gutters. As the debris builds up, it can cause the gutters to become clogged. Regular gutter cleaning is necessary to remove the clog-causing debris and keep the gutters working smoothly. It also eliminates the eyesore that dirty gutters create in your home.

2. Check For Damage

Aside from posing water drainage concerns, clogged gutters can result in gutter damage. The accumulated debris can cause your gutters to sag, bend, crack or even break due to the excessive weight.

After cleaning your gutter system, it helps to check for any damage, which may indicate it requires repairs.

Any holes or cracks within the system should be repaired to stop the water from escaping during a storm. Any rusty or severely damaged sections may require replacement to get the entire system working well again. 

As you inspect your gutters following a cleaning job, confirm that your gutters and gutter downspouts are securely attached to the roof and walls of your house. If they are not, you'll need to reattach them.

3. Protect Your Gutters 

Proactive strategies work best for your gutter maintenance efforts. As part of your preventative gutter maintenance plan, you should install a gutter protection system to prevent loose debris from entering and building up inside your gutters.

A gutter protection system is a covering placed over your gutter system to keep out debris. When combined with regular gutter cleaning, it allows the water to flow freely, reducing the need for expensive gutter repairs.

4. Inspect Your Gutters Regularly

Don't inspect your gutters only when you're cleaning them. You should arrange regular gutter inspections to ensure early identification and repair of problems that can cause extensive damage to your home later. 

Your gutters are a vital yet often underappreciated part of your home's roofing system. Taking them for granted can have dire implications for your home and bank account. Contact a roofing contractor near you for your gutter maintenance quote.