What’s the leading cause of gutter damage?
It’s essential to avoid any damage. Gutters are an integral piece of your home’s well-being. They serve to control the flow of rainwater to protect your roof, walls, foundation, and landscape.
But when neglected, experts say gutters can turn from a necessity to a nightmare. For example, a gutter clogged with leaves, sticks, and other debris can cause a leaky roof or water damage to the interior or exterior of your home. On the other hand, contractors say gunked-up gutters also make lovely homes for pests, rodents, mold, and honeycombs from bee infestations.
What could happen if you don’t clean your gutters?
Foundation problems: If you have a 2,000-square-foot home, every inch of rain translates to more than 1,200 gallons of water pouring down your roof! A properly functioning gutter will carry that water through a downspout and away from your home. But a clogged gutter does the opposite—allowing water to spill over the sides and pour down your walls. In addition, pooling water around your foundation can cause erosion, weakening the walls, leading to foundation cracks and settling.
Broken gutters: When your gutters are clogged, the water they collect has no place to go. Instead, it fills your gutters to the brim. With each gallon of water weighing about 8 pounds, all that extra weight can bend your gutters or tear them away from the roof.
Wet basement: If your basement isn’t waterproofed, the water pouring down your foundation can lead to a damp basement. It is caused by water seeping through your basement’s porous walls and floor.
Insect infestations: Nobody likes mosquitos in their backyard. But pooling water in your gutters can be the perfect breeding ground for them. Damp mud and leaves can also be an inviting place for bees and wasps to build their nests.
Problems caused by clogged or broken gutters are expensive to fix but easy to prevent. (Clear the debris!) But before you get out the ladder, check out these tips on how to clean your gutters safely.
Know when to hire a pro to check for any damage
If the job is too physically demanding or you’d prefer to play it safe and hassle-free, contact a professional to clean your gutters. The cost will vary depending on the size of your home.
If You need help, please, feel free to call us, and we’ll set an appointment for you.
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