A clean gutter system is something you may not often think about, but it’s something that needs to be on the top of your mind. Gutters are essential components of your home that ensure that rainwater flows from your roof to the ground without getting into your home. Here are some reasons why clean gutters are so important:
They Prevent Water Damage
When a gutter becomes filled with debris and can’t function properly, rainwater backs up and can cause damage to your home by flowing over the gutter sections. Once a gutter floods, the water can get underneath the roof or trickle down the side of the house to the lower levels. This could cause rotting of the roof or siding. A clean gutter ensures easy water run-off and helps water damage.
They Are a Perfect Home for Pests
A clogged gutter is often filled with sticks, leaves, and other debris from nearby trees. This kind of environment is attractive to certain insects and rodents who often take up residence in the mucky build-up. Keeping the gutters clear of these materials will discourage critters from moving in.
Bracket Damage
Clogged gutters are heavy. Over time, the weight of your gutters may cause stress to the brackets holding it in place. This could lead to damage and could cause your brackets to fail.
Protect Your Foundation
If your gutters end up flooding, water could seep into the ground along the side of your home. Once this water freezes, it could expand and create cracks in the foundation.
To keep your gutters clean, follow these useful tips:
- Clean them at least twice yearly. If your house has lots of surrounding trees, you may want to clean more frequently to prevent clogging.
- Consider hiring a professional. While many people choose to clean their gutters themselves in order to save money, a professional will do a thorough job that could save you money in the long-run. They can locate a problem and address it before it becomes more complicated. Moreover, by hiring a professional, you can avoid the risk of incurring ladder-related injuries.
- Consider installing a gutter guard. Gutter guards will reduce the frequency of your cleanings by preventing debris from entering the gutter. You will still find some debris in your gutter but the amount will be much less than without a gutter guard. You may only need to clean your gutters every one to three years.
For more information, please feel free to reach out to the experts at Doing It Right Roofing Siding Remodeling LLC.
