Properly maintaining your gutters has a positive impact on the curb appeal of your home, and it can also help you to keep your house in good structural condition. Poorly maintained gutters do not channel water away from your property, and this can result in extensive damage that weakens or rots your roof and siding over time. If water damage is left unchecked, the result can be costly repairs and dangerous mold and mildew that causes health concerns. Maintaining your gutters takes a bit of time, but putting in the effort will benefit your home, family and pocketbook in the long run.
Do Regular Visual Checks On Your Gutters
The first step in maintaining your gutters is to climb a ladder and take a look at them regularly. Look for decayed leaves and other organic material that is building up in your gutters and downspout, and make sure to remove it on a regular basis. This material can be removed by hand to be added to your compost bin, or you can take a hose and wash it out. Taking the time to perform this task on a monthly basis will save you a significant amount of time and money versus replacing your gutters more often than necessary.
While you are up on the ladder, it is also a good idea to take a look at how your gutters are fastened to your home. You will notice several spikes that travel through your gutters, into the siding of your home and into the rafters behind it. Sometimes spikes are missing or broken, and this can cause your gutters to become ineffective or sag over time. Replace any missing or broken spikes whenever necessary to keep your gutters properly secured to the siding and working effectively.
Major Cleaning and Gutter Replacement
If your gutters are older and not made of durable aluminum or vinyl, it is also important to check them for rust. With time, rust will corrode through your gutters and cause holes and leaks. Some leaks can be repaired with new caulk or another waterproof sealant, but some will require that you completely replace the gutter and/or the downspout. Gutters that are free from damaging rust and properly caulked will go a long way toward keeping your siding safe from rot, mold and mildew caused by water damage.
To keep your gutters in the best condition, consider investing in a quality pressure washer. This device uses a powerful stream of water to clean your siding, driveway, sidewalks and gutters. It offers optimum power and can remove even the most difficult debris from your gutters and downspout. Follow the instructions that come with your pressure washer, and thoroughly clean your gutters at least twice a year.
If you will be replacing your gutters as part of a more extensive home renovation project, give Alair Homes a call for assistance. Our highly skilled, award winning construction professionals offer superior craftsmanship and unbeatable customer service to make your home renovation a smoother, more enjoyable process. Contact us to schedule your free consultation today.