Gutters are a critical part of your exterior drainage system. They help direct rainwater away from your home’s foundation, protecting your property from water damage such as leaks, moisture, and soil erosion. However, for gutters to function properly, regular maintenance is crucial. If neglected, they can become clogged with leaves, branches, and other debris, which can lead to leaks and serious damage. Here are some handy tips to keep your gutters in good shape all year long.
- Clean Gutters Regularly
Gutter cleaning is by far the most important aspect of maintenance. Blockages caused by leaves, branches and other debris can prevent water from flowing properly, which in turn can cause leaks and damage to your roof or foundation. It is recommended that you clean your gutters at least twice a year – once in the spring and once in the fall, when leaf fall is heaviest.
Steps to clean the gutters:
- Climb safely: Use a sturdy ladder and always work safely. If you are not comfortable cleaning gutters, consider hiring a professional.
- Remove large debris: Food
- Clean with a hose: Once you’ve removed any large debris, use a hose to rinse away any dirt or small debris that may have become trapped.
- Check and Repair Damaged Gutters
Cracks, holes, and dents can occur over time, especially after severe storms or hail. These damages can affect the ability of your gutters to drain water properly, which can cause leaks or pools of water on your roof or in your yard.
How to check and repair gutters:
- Inspec
- If there are dents or more serious structural damage, that section of the gutters may need to be replaced.
- Make Sure Gutters Are Properly Placed
Over time, gutters can become misaligned or glued.
- How to make sure your gutters are properly installed:
- Check the alignment of the gutters. Water should flow toward the downspouts, not toward the edges.
- Make sure the gutters are sloped slightly toward the downspout (about 1/4 inch for every 10 feet of gutter).
- If you find that any gutters are misaligned or collapsed, consider repairing or replacing them as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
- Install Gutter Guards
A great way to reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning is to install gutter guards. These devices help prevent leaves and other debris from entering your gutters, keeping them cleaner for longer.
Benefits of gutter guards:
They are easy to install and come in a variety of styles, from mesh to full covers.
- Inspect Gutter Downspouts
Downspouts are the pipes that carry water from the gutters to the ground or drainage system. These should also be checked periodically to ensure they are not clogged or damaged.
How to inspect and maintain downspouts:
- Make sure downspouts are not clogged by leaves or other debris.
- Check your downspouts for cracks or damage that could allow water to leak into your home’s foundation.
- Consider Installing High-Quality Gutters
If your gutters have a lot of recurring problems or are already very old, it may be a good time to consider installing new gutters. High-quality gutters made from durable materials like aluminum or copper can last longer and require less maintenance. Additionally, there are more modern options that are designed to better withstand extreme weather conditions and prevent debris buildup.
