Keeping the gutters well-maintained is crucial to preventing property damage and guaranteeing optimal roofing system performance. Proper maintenance can prevent clogging and leaking. Besides redirecting rainwater, these fixtures can prevent secondary issues like pests and mold infestations.
Gutters and downspout installation may not be that costly, but without proper care, you may find yourself spending more on future repairs or replacements. Fortunately, the maintenance process is quite easy, and when done properly, the guttering system can protect your home from further damage. Here are three repair gutter maintenance tips that prevent leakages and clogging.
1. Regular Cleaning
Generally, homeowners are expected to clean and inspect these roofing fixtures at least once yearly, particularly in Spring and Autumn. Nonetheless, you should inspect and clean these units regularly. People living in the wettest cities should clean their gutters more regularly as they’re more susceptible to clogging. To keep your guttering system functioning, you should do the following:
- Using a plastic shovel, remove the dried leaves and dirt from the gutter and dump them in a bucket.
- Remove the remaining dirt using water from a garden hose. If the water from the hose doesn’t drain out of the drain spout, then your gutter may be blocked.
- To dislodge the blockage, you can insert your garden horse inside the downspout and spray the water at full pressure. If that doesn’t work, you can dislodge the blockage using a plumber’s snake tool.
- Tighten and reattach any piece that you may have removed while unblocking the downspout before flushing the gutter again to clean it.
Most importantly, wear your protective gear, including gloves, before getting on the roof.
2. Check the Guttering Structure for Holes, Leaks, and Rust
After you’ve finished the cleaning process, you should inspect it for any form of gutter damage. This includes inspecting it for leaks and rust. If you find holes in the guttering structure, you should patch them using a gutter patching kit that you can find at the local store or metal flashing. When inspecting these structures, you should also check the downspout for rust and leaks. Make sure they extend a few feet from your home’s foundation.
Remember, a rusted gutter has reached the end of its lifespan, so you should replace it. Consider upgrading your current option with a gutter made from vinyl, copper, or aluminum that doesn’t rust.
3. Clear the Roof
Before scaling such heights, you should first ensure you’re safe. This means avoiding this task when there’s a strong wind blowing or when the roof is wet. If the weather is perfect, you should climb the roof using a ladder and remove the debris using a rake. This will prevent the rain from pushing them to the gutter and clogging it.
4. Trim Overhanging Trees
If you have trees with branches that hang over your roof, it’s important to keep them trimmed back. Falling leaves and branches can quickly clog your gutters and increase the risk of damage. Regularly trimming branches will reduce the amount of debris that ends up in the gutters, making maintenance easier.
5. Check and Secure Fasteners
Over time, gutters may become loose due to weather conditions or normal wear and tear. Periodically check that all gutter fasteners are secure, including hangers, brackets, and screws. Tighten any that are loose to ensure the system is properly supported. Loose gutters can lead to sagging, which disrupts water flow and leads to leaks.
6. Test for Proper Drainage
After completing all cleaning and inspection tasks, test the gutter system to make sure it’s draining properly. Use a garden hose to run water through the gutters, checking that it flows freely to the downspouts and away from the foundation. This helps confirm that there are no clogs or issues with the drainage system.
7. Install Gutter Guards
For an extra layer of protection, consider installing gutter guards to help minimize the amount of debris that can enter your gutters. Gutter guards are designed to block large debris, like leaves and twigs, while allowing water to flow through freely. This can significantly reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
Endnote
Gutter maintenance is one of the most overlooked property care jobs. Without proper maintenance, you’ll have various unavoidable problems, such as mold and clogging. With the above tips, you’ll have a functional gutter that protects your home’s foundation. If you have a fear of heights, be sure to hire a professional.
In Case You Missed It!
