Cleaning your Gutters is Important

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Fall is upon us and now is the time to start thinking about cleaning your gutters. Fall is the perfect time to think about cleaning your gutters since leaves dropping from trees are a main cause of clogging. It is recommended though to check your gutter system at least twice a year to help prevent any future water damage.

An inch of rainfall on a typical 1,000 square foot roof sends over 600 gallons of water into the gutters and downspouts. Any sort of blockage that obstructs this considerable flow can potentially cause water damage indoors. Foundation damage can happen by a blockage causing water to pour over the sides of the gutter and pool around the foundation which over time can cause cracks to form. If your basement isn’t waterproofed, the water pouring down the foundation can lead to a damp basement. This can lead to a whole host of other issues. Boards that hold the gutter system are often made of wood and when the gutters clog and fill with water it can cause these boards to deteriorate and rot. During the winter ice dams can form on the gutters which will cause water to pool and will eventually seep into the home if not taken care of.

It is recommended to hire a professional if you don’t feel comfortable or experienced enough to clean them.