Most property owners realize that gutters provide protection from debris, leaves and dirt that would otherwise coagulate on the roof of the home. Nevertheless, some people fall into the trap of overlooking gutters until serious issues occur. Fortunately, installing guards and cleaning gutters on a regular basis are not difficult tasks. Below are some Springtime gutter tips to help you protect your home from moisture damage.
- Install Gutter Guards. Without gutter guards a house is susceptible to various types of damage, some of which may be serious. Leaky roofs, rotting wood, seepage of water into the basement of the home, and even damage to the foundation are all possibilities if such guards are not used. The primary purpose of these devices are to prevent the aforementioned clogs from occurring in the first place. This allows the water to drain appropriately, which eliminates the need for frequent Springtime gutter replacement and helps to prevent damage to the home.
- Regular Gutter Maintenance. Using plastic gloves, you should remove all visible dirt, leaves, twigs and other debris that may have collected in the gutter during winter. If necessary, use a putty knife to remove stubborn areas of decomposed foliage, but use this tool gently to avoid damage. Next, thoroughly rinse the gutters with the garden hose to ensure any traces of dirt or leaves are removed. Springtime is also a good time to tighten loose screws or nails.
Additional Springtime Gutter Tips:
Checking the downspout for obstructions is a good idea as well, which is easily accomplished with a strong spray from a standard garden hose. If the downspout of your gutter system goes directly to the drain, disassemble this part before using the garden hose so that you do not accidentally force debris into the drain and ultimately create another problem. Finally, if you notice any roof problems or it appears that the time has come for new gutters, contact a professional to obtain a free quote for this project.
