Every building needs gutters to move rainwater away from the structure. However, a person must understand how to keep this system flowing freely to prevent damage. Gutters aren’t of much help if they cannot do their job. How can a person maintain their gutter system to ensure it functions properly?
Gutter Cleanings
Gutter cleanings are essential for the function and maintenance of a gutter system. Many people use a hose to clear the gutters after removing any solid debris, such as leaves. However, a plumbing snake might be required to remove objects wedged in the downspouts. The entire system must be cleared for the system to run smoothly and correctly.
Clean the gutters a minimum of twice each year. Experts recommend doing this in early spring before spring storms arrive. The process should be repeated in the fall after the leaves have fallen from the trees. Many leaves will make their way into the gutter system where they can clog it. If the property has numerous trees, gutters cleanings may be required weekly in the fall to keep the gutters and soffits free of debris.
Gutter Inspections
Cleaning the gutters is only one task that needs to be completed a minimum of twice each year. The homeowner should also inspect the gutters to ensure they are positioned correctly on the home. If they aren’t, they won’t function properly.
The gutters must be sloped slightly to ensure unwanted water moves away from the home. If the gutters aren’t sloped, the water will not be able to drain. It builds up in the gutter system, and the weight of the water may pull the gutters away from the home. When the water accumulates enough, it will back up onto the roof, where it could do damage.
However, excessively sloped gutters can also do harm to the home. If the water moves rapidly through the system, it could damage the exterior of the home. For this reason, homeowners need to ensure the proper slope is maintained.
Gutter professionals recommend sloping the gutters one-half inch for every ten feet of gutter. When checking the slope, ensure the gutters aren’t leaning too far in one direction, as this could also affect water drainage.
Gutter Guards
Consider installing gutter guards to keep debris from making its way into the gutters. Manufacturers offer three types of gutter guards today. Screening and filtering devices sit on top of the gutters, while blocking and filling devices are installed in the gutters.
Reverse curve gutters come with a hood. Water clings to this hood before glowing into the gutter. Any debris will not adhere to the hood, so it won’t clog the system.
Each style has advantages and disadvantages a property owner must know. For example, micro-mesh screens are ideal for those property owners who collect water in a rain barrel. The screen prevents unwanted items from making their way into the water.
Property owners must carefully monitor their gutter systems to ensure they function as intended. Water can do significant damage to a building in little time if the gutter system doesn’t work as intended.
Inspect and clean the gutters twice every year, more often in areas with lots of trees or severe weather. Doing so helps to protect the property from significant damage and provides the owner with peace of mind, knowing they are doing everything possible to safeguard their investment in the property.
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