7 Reasons To Clean Your Gutters At Least Twice A Year
Gutters play an important role in properly directing rainwater and melting snow away from your home’s foundation and roof. However, it is easy to overlook regular gutter maintenance as gutters are often out of sight, up high along the eaves of your roofline. Over time, debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt accumulate inside rain gutters which can cause blockages and water backups. While the thought of climbing a ladder twice annually to scrub out gutters may elicit a slight burst of hesitation due to the perceived effort required, keeping gutters clean is crucial to protect the integrity and function of your home’s drainage system. Neglecting gutter cleaning invites damage that leads to costly repairs. Taking some time in spring and fall to address your gutters reduces future perplexities from neglected drainage issues. The following seven reasons emphasize how twice-yearly gutter cleaning proves highly beneficial.
Prevents Leaks And Stains
Clogged gutters unable to channel rainfall freely are a leading cause of water leaks and moisture damage. Backed-up gutters force water over the edges of your roof where it can seep into your attic, walls or windows. Stagnant water sitting in blocked gutters also breeds mold and mildew growth discoloring your home’s siding and trim. Regular cleaning removes gunk buildup allowing gutters to shed water appropriately with no overflows leading inside.
Protects Fascia And Soffit Boards
If rain cannot drain through gutters due to blockages, it leaves your fascia and soffit vulnerable to rotting as well. Clean gutters allow these exterior trims to remain dry, preventing expensive repairs or full-board replacements down the road.
Prevents Roof Damage
When gutters overflow and leak water, it creates wet spots on your roof’s shingles or other roofing material accelerating decomposition. Over time, this can cause premature wear and possibly costly roof repairs or replacement sooner than expected. Cleansing gutters twice annually maintains proper drainage to lengthen your roof’s lifespan.
Foundation Is Spared
Water left standing too close to your home’s foundation from clogged gutters invites moisture issues. Wet basement walls or wet soil against the foundation lead to cracks and structural weak points. Regular gutter cleaning ensures water flows away fully protecting basement integrity and avoiding future perplexities.
Fewer Pests Attracted
Stagnant water trapped by gunk in your gutters can become a breeding ground for mosquitos and other pesky insects. Regular scrubbing eliminates breeding sites and decreases insect problems around your living spaces.
Reduces Risk Of Ice Dams
Fallen leaves obstructing gutters in autumn then frozen in place by winter precipitation leads to dangerous ice dams forming along your roofline. Heavy ice buildup forces water up underneath shingles rather than safely down gutters. Protecting gutters from blockages during autumn cleanings avoids major ice damming and associated roof leaks prone to arise during the frosty months.
Saves Money In Repairs
Staying on top of twice-yearly gutter scrubbing eliminates future repair bills from damage permitted through neglect. The minor investment of time and effort spent keeping gutters flowing freely saves substantial costs down the line from issues like new gutters, roof replacement or foundation repairs that could have been avoided with routine care.
To Wrap Up
Making an effort to thoroughly clean out gutters in spring and fall prevents major drainage mysteries and protects your home’s siding, roof and foundation over the long run. While gutter scrubbing requires some exertion, the benefits far outweigh any burst of effort spent. With consistent care, your gutters can function optimally and your home remains structurally sound for years.
