Most people wait until it’s too late to prepare their gutters for the rain. Instead of simple cleanings and minor repairs, we get calls for emergency services and damaged gutter systems.
So here are 4 EASY & QUICK tips to make sure your gutter system will get the job done.
1. Ensure water flows away
Follow the path of your gutters to the downspouts where water drops down the side of your home. Does it spew out downhill and away, or does it puddle, pool, or even drain back toward the foundation?
Remember that 90% of damage is caused by what you don’t see. A small puddle on the surface could mean a huge soggy mess below the ground.
2. Check the connections
Inspect the brackets that hold each section of gutter to your house. Are screws loose? Are gutters sagging or falling away? When water starts flowing, the pressure and weight will build. One minor detachment creates much bigger problems, but can be easily prevented.
3. Address damage now, no matter how small
Minor drip in the corner? Small section starting to fall away from the fascia? These things are easy to fix but are very concerning. Proper maintenance will ensure you don’t face big challenges when the sky falls!
4. Look for growth and debris
In the Pacific Northwest more than anywhere else – gutters NEED to be cleaned annually. Pine needles, leaves, and other debris roll down the roof and fill the gutters, clog the elbows, and prevent the downspouts from doing their job. (Just watch the video below).
If you see any plant growth, whether inside your gutter system or around downspout exits, you’ll need to take care of this now or risk expensive repairs.
Courtesy of Gu-Wi Gutters & Windows Give them call at 833.GET.GUWI
Art courtesy of Life Maid Easy