As one of the most major problems that can occur for homeowners, protecting your property from potential water damage is crucial! One key aspect of this protection against moisture and water damage is your home’s gutter system. These seemingly inconspicuous channels play a significant role in preserving the structural integrity of your property – by ensuring the free flow of rainwater away from your house and roofing system, clean gutters are instrumental in safeguarding your residence from major damages!
In this brief blog post, RoofPRO will walk homeowners through five tips to ensure clean and functioning gutters throughout the year. Reach out to our team today for more information!
Five Ways to Protect Your Home with Clean Gutters
From manual cleaning to professional inspections, here are five popular ways to protect your property against water damage with a clean and robust gutter system.
1) Manual Gutter Cleaning in Spring and Fall
Cleaning out your gutters manually is a straightforward, yet indispensable and effective way to safeguard your home. Over time, clogged gutters can accumulate falling leaves, twigs, and other debris, blocking water flow. It’s generally a good idea to conduct a thorough cleaning twice annually: once after winter to address any accumulated debris and again during autumn after the leaves have fallen.
Note: Practice Ladder Safety!
Safety should always be paramount for any homeowner working on their property’s exterior. Whenever you’re ascending a ladder for inspecting or cleaning gutters, always ensure it is steady and firmly grounded. Utilize ladder stabilizers for increased safety if needed. Remember, overreaching can lead to accidents; if you can’t reach an area, climb down and reposition the ladder!
2) Install Gutter Guards to Keep Out Debris
Gutter guards (or gutter covers) are a great product for many properties; they act as a protective screen that prevents larger debris from entering your gutters, yet they allow rainwater to flow through freely. With gutter guards securely in place, the frequency of cleaning can be significantly reduced throughout the year.
Trim Overhanging Trees
Trees beautify our home’s surroundings, but those overhanging your roof can result in a buildup of leaves and other debris in your rain gutters. Regularly trimming these trees can help minimize the amount of debris falling directly into your gutters, clogging them and preventing water from flowing freely.
How Much Do Gutter Guards Cost?
The cost of gutter guards varies depending on material, brand, size of your home, and installation complexities. While there’s an upfront cost, many homeowners consider it a long-term investment that can reduce future maintenance costs and potential damage down the line.
There are two types of gutter covers, plastic and aluminum. While the plastic type can seem appealing because of the lower cost, they will warp from the sun and animals are more likely to chew holes through them. The aluminum type will maintain their quality and are screwed into the gutter itself, meaning the wind and animals won’t be able to move or damage the gutter cover.
3) Flush with Water to Completely Clear Gutter Debris
Once you’ve manually cleared larger debris, use a garden hose to flush the gutters. This not only helps clear out finer particles but can also identify areas where water may not be draining properly, indicating potential blockages you may have missed.
Don’t forget the down spouts, elbows or where the gutter drains into the ground. These are common places for debris to build up and clog the drains, keeping water from properly draining off the roof. If they seem to be clocked, you can snake the gutters or disconnect the down spout drain, clean it out and reconnect it.
4) Inspect Your Gutter System Regularly
It’s prudent to routinely inspect your gutters, whether on your own or by bringing out a trusted professional. Over time, they may develop issues like misalignment, rusting, or detachment from the house. Regular checks throughout the years can help you address minor concerns before they escalate into major damages!
If you see your gutter pulling away from the fascia board, creating a gap, this could be a sign of a bigger issue. When gutters are clocked, the water backs up and can overflow back towards the home. This can cause the wood to rot which loosens up the fasteners, causing the gutter to disconnect.
5) Repair or Replace Damaged Sections
If your inspection uncovers damaged sections or parts that are past their prime, it’s important to act swiftly. Proactive repairs at a good time can prevent more extensive damage and save on more considerable replacement costs down the line.
Hiring a Professional for Gutter Cleaning and Repairs
While many homeowners opt for the DIY route of gutter cleaning, there can be undeniable value in seeking professionals for gutter-related tasks. RoofPRO is proud to bring expertise, specialized tools, and a keen eye for detail to homeowners in Maryland looking for updates, repairs, or gutter guards for their home’s drainage systems. Reach out today for a free estimate!
RoofPRO is a Trusted Partner for Homeowners in Maryland
Specializing in a broad spectrum of home maintenance services, including roofing, siding, windows, and more, RoofPRO has proudly served homeowners across the region for nearly 20 years. We’ve become a trusted partner for property owners in Maryland due to our commitment to quality workmanship and outstanding customer service – check out some of our past projects here!
Functioning Gutters are Vital for Your Home's Roofing System
While new gutters might appear as mere accessories, their function is paramount for your property. They channel rainwater away, ensuring it doesn’t pool around your home’s foundation or seep into your walls!
Top-Rated Solutions for Homeowners Since 2004
With our steadfast commitment to excellence with all of our top-rated home improvement solutions, RoofPRO has been a trusted name in the state of Maryland since 2004. Our comprehensive suite of exterior services ensures that every homeowner can enjoy peace of mind, knowing their property is safe and secure all year round.
Contact Our Team Today for More Information
Are your gutters in need of attention? Whether it’s regular maintenance, repairs, gutter installation, or a complete overhaul, the team at RoofPRO is at your service! Reach out today, and let’s ensure your home remains safe, dry, and damage-free for years to come.
