As a homeowner, you know that your gutters require maintenance a few times a year, but it can be a task that is easily forgotten about. You may not be able to see the inside of your gutters from the ground level. Therefore, it is important that you safely get up on a ladder to check on your gutters. Gutters that are clogged with leaves and other unwanted debris, can lead to roof leaks, and potential water damage to both the exterior and interior of your home.
That is the reason regular maintenance of your gutters is so important! Routine gutter cleaning can prevent potential damage to your home. This could save you from potential repair costs in the future and help prolong the life of not only your gutters but your roof, windows, and siding as well!
Depending on the area you live in, it is recommended that you properly clean out your gutters between 2-4 times a year. If anything, you should clean out your gutters in the early stages of Fall and once late in the Spring. If you cannot remember the last time you cleaned your gutters, we recommend you checking your gutters for any of the following signs.
Here are five signs that will tell you its time to clean out your gutters.
1. Visible Leaves & Debris
It is normal for your gutters to collect leaves and other debris, especially in the Fall. From the trees surrounding your home, or the rain, debris will always find a way into your home’s gutter system. A build-up of leaves and debris will clog your gutter system, causing it to not work effectively at protecting your home.
2. Water Overflowing
If your gutters are overflowing with rainwater, that will tell you that your gutters are clogged and need to be cleaned. Over time, as the rainwater continues to overflow from your gutters, your home’s foundation could start to become damaged.
3. Plant Growth
If you are seeing any plant growth within your gutters, that is a sign that you are most likely overdue on your gutter cleaning. Plant growth in your gutters can also tell you that there is most likely a large build-up of either leaves or debris. The excessive leaves and debris is causing root protection for the growth.
4. Sagging Gutters
Between the leaves, debris, and rainwater your gutters will start to sag due to the extra weight. The weight strain will not only cause your gutters to sag but also can cause your gutters to detach from your home. If your gutters are detached from your home, they will need to be repaired or even replaced.
5. You Have a Leaky Roof
Any water that is not moving efficiently through your gutter system, can accumulate on your roof. Build-up that is clogging your gutters can cause the rainwater to sit and eventually travel under your shingles. Over time, this rainwater will sit underneath your shingles, causing your roof to rot and the water to find its way into your home.
Cleaning your gutters might be a chore that can be forgotten about, but properly cleaning your gutters is a small price to pay to protect your home! The sooner you get your gutters cleaned, the better. Here at Volpe Enterprises, we provide gutter cleaning services, replacements, or repairs. You will have peace of mind knowing that your gutters are working effectively and protecting your home.
When your gutters are damaged or obstructed, rainwater will pool in areas you don’t want it to, damaging your property’s infrastructure. Learn about proper gutter installation.
