Your gutters are an important part of your roofing system, and they should be kept clean and in good condition at all times. A functional gutter system allows rainwater to safely flow from your roof, but they get clogged easily by debris after severe weather.
For obvious reasons, the best time to clean your gutters is during the summer. Here are just a few tips to help you keep everything clean and in good shape.
Check the Downspouts
Most of your gutters are on your roof, which makes it difficult to clean them effectively. However, the downspouts reach down to the ground and are much easier to inspect. Before you climb up a ladder to your roof, take a look at your downspouts to make sure they’re not clogged or damaged. Water should flow freely from them and be directed at least four to six feet away from your house to prevent damage to your foundation or basement. If water doesn’t flow freely through your downspouts, there may be a blockage somewhere in your gutter system.
Inspect Your Gutters Regularly
Your gutters should be inspected and cleaned at least twice a year. The best time for this is at the beginning of summer, before any severe storms and at the end of fall. You should be able to see any sagging or large pieces of debris from the ground with a pair of binoculars, but you may also need to climb up a ladder to take a closer look at your gutters and clean them out. If you’re not comfortable on a ladder or if it’s unsafe to climb up to your roof, call a roofing professional to complete the inspection for you. You should also call a professional about installing new gutters if you notice any obvious damage.
Keep in mind that you should clean and inspect your gutters at least twice a year. This doesn’t mean that you can’t clean or inspect them more often than that. If your home has been hit with a severe storm or if you notice that water isn’t flowing from your downspouts, take a look at your gutters. They may be clogged with debris from the recent storm.
Trim Branches Above Your House
Much of the debris that clogs gutters comes from trees that may be too close to your house. If you have branches hanging over your roof, call a tree service company to have them trimmed. Arborists will be able to cut them back safely to remove any danger to your gutters without harming the tree itself.
Your gutters serve an important function for your home, but only if they’re kept clean. Keep these tips in mind this summer, and don’t hesitate to call a roofing professional if you have any questions or concerns. When you need gutter services in Etna, ME, contact Home Roofing Solutions.
