As winter continues to linger and hopefully soon fades to spring, now is the perfect time for homeowners to consider whether their home’s gutters are prepared for the various and often heavy precipitation that’s common this time of year.
When gutters and downspouts are in good working condition, they redirect water away from your home’s foundation and can prevent damage to fascia, soffit, shingles and other parts of your home’s exterior. In short, gutters protect both your home and your wallet from expensive repairs or replacement.
However, if your gutters themselves need repaired or replaced, then it’s best to address that issue first. It will still be a cheaper solution than waiting and making major repairs later.
That’s why the time is now to inspect, clean and take steps to maintain your home’s drainage system. If you identify any problems, such as cracks, leaks or drainage problems, then do not hesitate to call northwest Iowa’s trusted experts: Guarantee Gutter.
With over 40 years of experience, we can provide a free, no-obligation estimate. Our experts provide the right solution for your home or business. Simply contact us today to begin the process of repairing or replacing your gutters and restoring your own peace of mind.
Importance of gutter maintenance
We’ve already mentioned briefly the problems that poor home drainage can cause for a home’s foundation and exterior, but let’s dig deeper into the how and why – plus how the problems don’t always stop at the exterior.
Gutters and downspouts in poor condition may cause water to pool around the structure’s foundation. This can cause erosion and weakened soil. Too much water too close to the foundation can cause cracks, leading to water entering the foundation and further toward the interior. This could compromise your home’s structure, but also lead to rotting, mold growth and water damage inside the home.
On the exterior, not diverting water can also create ice dams in winter or push water back toward the roof and siding during heavy spring rains. This can also lead to mold and further damage behind these parts of your home.
All told, it’s best to make everything remains clean and have an expert take a look at needed repairs.
What tools you need to clean gutters safely
Some homeowners may be able to clean their house’s gutters themselves. If you’re able to perform the DIY task, then it’s important to have the right tools for the job so you can do so safely.
Here’s what gear is required to inspect and clean yourself:
- Ladder. Follow proper ladder safety.
- Gloves
- Bucket for debris and bucket hooks to hold the bucket
- Trowel for scooping debris
- Garden hose for flushing
- A drill and appropriate bits if comfortable with screws and supports
There are other tools that may come in handy, such as a hand auger that can be useful for clearing stubborn debris from downspouts, but much beyond that and we’d recommend contacting a professional.
Cleaning the gutter and downspouts
As long as you have a ladder tall enough to safely reach your home’s gutters, you can begin removing debris by hand or with a trowel. We recommend using a bucket to discard debris so you don’t have to drop the gunk and garbage to the ground.
Once the gutters are cleared, use a garden hose to flush out anything that remains in the gutters and downspouts.
Inspect for damage and proper drainage
If you find clogged gutters, then it’s possible there could be other damage, too. Clogged gutters left too long are a leading cause of further damage, such as cracks, leaks and sagging.
While cleaning your gutters by running a hose to flush out debris and dirt, you can also look for any leaks that may appear as the water runs its course. Wherever you find cracks or leaks, apply a sealant to prevent future issues. Some larger cracks, leaks or damaged materials may require replacement parts.
After you identify or rule out any leaks, check to make sure all gutters are securely fastened to the home in a manner that allows for proper drainage toward downspouts.
Age and significant weather events are two other leading factors of gutter damage, especially over time. Most gutters last about 20 years, but that lifespan can decrease quickly if severe weather impacts your home.
Suspect it may be time to repair or replace your gutters? Contact Guarantee Gutter, a Midwest Companies business that’s been trusted throughout northwest Iowa for more than 40 years.
Preventative measures for future maintenance
Cleaning gutters and downspouts can sometimes be a time-consuming, strenuous process. Luckily, there are preventative measures that you can take to make future cleanings an easier and shorter process.
For example, homeowners can install gutter guards to help keep debris like leaves, dirt and tree branches from clogging gutters. This means gutters will likely need to be cleaned less frequently and less likely to become clogged.
Guards are often made of metal or a plastic mesh. They allow water to flow freely through the home’s drainage system, while preventing debris from getting through. Cleaning is still required, but not as often.
Spring is also a great time to have gutter guards installed during cleaning and maintenance.
Time to bring in the professionals?
Cleaning and maintaining your home or business’s gutters is sometimes best left to a trusted expert in the home exterior industry. Guarantee Gutter, a part of Midwest Companies, has been a go-to expert in gutter repairs and replacements for the people of northwest Iowa for more than 40 years.
Our team offers seamless aluminum gutter solutions, oversized downspouts, plus durable gutter guards to protect your home. Contact us today to book an appointment for a free, no obligation estimate for your residential or commercial property.