If you are like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your gutters until an issue arises. However, gutters are more important than you might realize when it comes to protecting your home. With this in mind, here are a few things your local gutter contractor wants you to know:
- Gutters do much more than divert rainfall away from your roof. They help to avoid foundation erosion, basement flooding, landscape damage, and siding deterioration. A properly functioning gutter system protects almost every aspect of your home’s exterior.
- Routine maintenance is necessary. Leaves, twigs, and debris can quickly clog gutters, causing water to overflow and pool outside your home. An experienced gutter contractor will recommend cleaning gutters at least twice a year, usually in the spring and fall.
- Minor issues don’t stay minor for long. While a small leak, a loose fastener, or a sagging portion of the gutter system might not seem like that big of a deal, these issues can cause wood rot, mold growth, and structural damage over time. Routine inspections by a gutter contractor can help uncover problems before they worsen.
- Not all gutter systems are the same. Material quality, precise sizing, and competent installation are all factors that influence performance and longevity. Investing in high-quality gutters can typically reduce maintenance requirements and increase the life of the system.
- Contractors recommend preventative measures like gutter guards. While they cannot completely eliminate the need for maintenance, they can greatly minimize buildup and increase water flow.