Keeping a Clean Gutter Will Save You Money
It certainly isn’t the most fun weekend project, but it’s an important one nonetheless. Avoiding consistent and proper gutter cleaning can result in major debris build up and cause you numerous problems down the road. You should be clearing out your gutters at least once a year or you may run into problems.
Avoid Roof Damage
If gutters are not cleaned water will inevitably back up in your gutters and damage the edge of your roof surface due to constant contact with water. Leaves and other debris can potentially clog up your gutter to the point that water is flooding over resulting in a weak or rotting roof. Eventually, the surface, as well as the roof, will need to be replaced due to damages.
Keep Out Pests
Clogged up gutters can be appealing to a number of critters as a nesting site. From birds to mosquitoes, a bed of damp leaves is alluring and can attract these unwanted guests. If gutters are clogged with debris, leaves and rainwater can become stagnant inside of them instead of flowing to the proper drainage area. Making it the ideal atmosphere for mosquitoes. In addition, other bugs, plants, birds, and even mice have been known to infest moist gutter debris.
Damage To Fascia
Water backed up in gutters is heavy and can cause the gutter attachments to pull away from the wood fascia. The fascia is that board that runs right behind your gutter. Overflowing water can damage this important component of your gutter system can cause the wood to rot and weaken as well.
Overwatering Garden Beds
If your gutters become clogged to the point that water is spilling over the side and into your garden beds, you can damage your plants’ health by essentially drowning them. Overwatering can be as harmful as not watering enough. Attractive landscaping adds value and curb appeal to your home. It also dictates a lot of consistent upkeep and valuable time- so don’t let it get ruined by your clogged gutters.
Cracks in Foundation
When a gutter system is working improperly, the water collects inside the gutters and eventually overflows. When this happens, the water doesn’t get far beyond the home and can begin to pool around the foundation. This can cause serious damage that you want to avoid at all costs. If water overflows and builds up along your home’s foundation it can end up freezing, which can cause it to expand and generate cracks in your foundation.
All these household misfortunes can be easily avoided through regular gutter cleaning. The best time of year to take care of this chore is late autumn after your trees have shed their leaves and before the first freeze of the season.
Now it is clear why gutter cleaning should be made a priority. If you something keeps you from doing it, call a professional to help. A good gutter system will keep your home safe through every season by preventing water damage. If you’re unsure how your gutters are holding up, call us for an appointment so we can assess your situation. We are happy to give you the advice and service you need.