Gutters are barely noticeable on your roof, but they're a crucial part of it. They guide rainwater to your downspouts, which then lead it to public sewer lines or storm drains. Gutters can endure visible and hidden damage that roof inspection specialists can inspect for you. Here are several reasons why you should maintain your gutters consistently.
Roof Integrity
Blocked gutters and downspouts will accumulate plenty of water during heavy rain. It could cause water to flow and get absorbed by your roof material, turning them brittle and causing water damage to your attic. Maintain roof integrity by having regular gutter inspections whenever possible.
Yard and Basement Safety
Gutters blocked by debris will overflow and flow back to your roof material. Overflowing gutters will soak yards and damage the garden. The wet soil will eventually make its way to your basement and soak the concrete walls. Over time, the moisture will weaken the material and cause your home's foundation to crumble.
Siding Discoloration
Gutters prevent siding discoloration by ensuring rainwater doesn't overflow on your siding. Your gutters will cause rust-colored stains and brown streaks on your siding and affect its curb appeal.
Gutter Helmet has an excellent post concerning the issues dirty and blocked gutters can create. Learn more below.
Your gutters are an important part of your roofing system. They benefit your home in many ways and when they’re not clean, your home can sustain damage from your roof to your foundation. Here are ten problems that can result from clogged and dirty gutters.
#1 – Flooded Basements
When your gutters are clogged and overflow, water runs down the side of your home and eventually into your basement. One of the best ways to avoid a flooded basement is with an effective gutter system that includes aluminum gutter covers.
#2 – Foundation Issues
Whether you have a crawl space, slab or basement, overflowing gutters can damage your home’s foundation. If the sand, dirt or clay under your home gets too wet, your foundation may shift, causing cracks and buckling. Standing water can deteriorate piers in a home on a crawl space.
#3 – Driveway Destruction
Water under your driveway can cause the same issues as water under your foundation or in your crawlspace. Cracks, holes and shifting occur, which can cause damage to your vehicles and creates a tripping hazard.
#4 – Destroyed Landscaping
During a heavy rain, water overflows clogged gutters and runs over your landscaping. Not only can water wash away your mulch, it can severely damage flowers, shrubs and trees.
#5 – Ice
When gutters are clogged and temperatures drop below freezing, ice causes issues in several ways. Clogged gutters become heavy and can pull away from your home. If water has run over your gutters onto your deck, driveway or sidewalks, it can freeze and cause a slip hazard.
#6 – Pests
Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitos and other pests. Rodents may find the water, and critters that eat mosquitos will be drawn to your home.
#7 – Water Damage
When water runs over your gutters and down the sides of your home, it will eventually find its way into your home. You may not notice the damage water is causing behind your siding, in your window frames or under your flooring until significant harm is done (Continue reading here to learn more)
Need high-quality gutter cleaning and maintenance services? You can always rely on Roper Roofing & Solar's experts. We install and maintain roofs and gutter systems. We also offer solar panel and solar shingle installation services. Call us today to get started.
