Gutters are an important part of your home’s system, especially your roof. You may not think of them often but you will notice when they get clogged with debris. When gutters are neglected it can become an inconvenience and sometimes a nightmare to fix. A gutter that has been clogged with sticks, leaves, trash, and other materials can cause water damage and a leaky roof. It can allow water to seep into your home and ruin the interior as well as the exterior. Gutters that haven’t been cleaned recently can actually be a great home for rodents, honeycombs, pests, and mold. Gutters are a relatively easily cleaned area of your home but can cost you thousands of dollars in roofing if they are neglected.
How often should I clean my gutters?
When it comes to your gutters it can depend highly on where you live. It also depends on how many trees are around your home. Generally, you should have your gutters cleaned every fall and spring. These are prime times for heavy leaf build-up in your gutter system. A professional should not only clean the gutters but also the downspouts. The downspouts play a large part in allowing water to flow from your gutters onto the ground without backing up. If you live in a part of the country where your home is surrounded by a lot of foliage it may be beneficial to assess your gutter needs every four months. Being overly cautious with the build-up in your home’s gutters can be a great step in ensuring that you aren’t causing water to pool or build.
Is there anything I can install?
If you don’t want to have to constantly worry about the state of your gutters you can look into installing leaf guards. These can significantly decrease the need for your home to have gutter maintenance (although it won’t eliminate the need completely). You will likely have to check the quality and state of your gutter screens once every three years to ensure they’re doing well. If you do choose to install gutter guards you should check for debris semi-regularly. They aren’t a cure-all and can still allow a small percentage of debris to slip through.
Do it Yourself or Hire a Professional?
When it comes to some jobs it may be better to hire a professional. Cleaning gutters usually requires a ladder, gloves, eye protection, and the right clothing. It can be a messy job and one that isn’t much fun if you aren’t comfortable with heights. Hiring a professional to clean your gutters ensures that they are done right. It also helps to avoid any water pooling and potentially damaging leaks.
If you have waited too long and your gutter has caused a leak you can call Rescue Roofing LA today. We can sort your roof’s cracks and leaks while inspecting its age and health. Keeping your gutters and roof in good repair should be of paramount importance for commercial and residential building owners. (888) 290-5525
