Why Gutter Cleaning Is Important
Gutters are an important part of keeping your home safe from water damage. They channel water from the roof and away from the foundation.
When gutters become clogged, they are no longer effective and can cause numerous problems that can be costly to repair. Gutter cleaning regularly is an essential home maintenance activity.
Debris Buildup
Debris from trees, shingle granules and other waste can all clog gutters, and it’s important to clean them regularly. This will keep the system running properly and prevent clogs, which can lead to water damage on your roof, siding and foundation.
Gutters should be cleaned twice a year, more if your home is in a location that tends to get a lot of wind. You can also help the system drain more effectively by trimming limbs and branches that hang over your house.
Whether you’re cleaning the gutters yourself or hiring a professional, it’s important to wear gloves for safety purposes. You should avoid cotton or leather gloves as these will be damaged by the water and may not protect you from splinters and sharp debris.
Organic debris such as leaves and guano can turn into a black, slimy substance that blocks the flow of water through your gutters. If left unchecked, this sludge can also grow mold, which can cause water problems and potentially lead to health issues.
Water Damage
When gutters are clogged with debris, water cannot flow off the roof properly. This can cause serious problems for a home.
Depending on the type of house, this could lead to damage such as foundation cracks or flooding. It also creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
This is particularly true of homes that have wooden siding and window frames. When water spills over the gutters, it can eventually rot the wood and weaken the siding.
If this happens frequently, parts of the siding and window frame can need to be replaced. It may also be necessary to redo sections of the wall.
A clogged gutter will also put significant strain on the fascia board, the horizontal boards that are held to the side of a home’s roof. If the fascia board begins to rot, the entire gutter system can collapse.
Clogged Downspouts
If you have a downspout that is not draining properly, then you need to check it for obstructions. These can be small or large and can be caused by debris, roofing granules, animal droppings, and loose soil or grass.
Clogged downspouts can cause serious issues, and should be addressed immediately. They can damage your gutters and foundation, as well as lead to a lot of water problems.
Before a rainstorm hits, you can test your downspout for a clog by placing the end of a garden hose in the downspout’s opening. If the water flows out at a consistent rate, you have a clean downspout.
After you have ruled out the downspout, you can start to clean it out with a few easy tools. A leaf blower, for instance, can help move the debris out of the way and remove any clogs. A hose can also be used to rinse the downspout and break up any leftover debris.
Mold
Molds need moisture and food to grow, and the water your gutters collect during winter can make the perfect environment for them. In addition, molds release spores into the air that can irritate your breathing and health.
The good news is that regular gutter cleaning service and maintenance can help prevent mold from forming. This is especially important if you have a family with allergies or asthma.
Luckily, mold can be easily removed with bleach and a scrub brush. However, if you have a large area to cover or are dealing with more stubborn mold, you may need professional remediation.
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