The gutters are an important part of the roofing system, on the job 24/7, year-round. Changing climate conditions, fluctuating temperatures, and active winds take their toll. A functional gutter system prevents problems from occurring, anything from minor inconveniences to serious structural instability. Use these helpful tips to protect your gutters from damage.
Clean the Gutter System Regularly
Industry professionals advise homeowners to clean the gutters at least twice a year (spring and fall). You might need to gutter clean seasonally if you have a lot of trees on the property, and they are a mix of deciduous and coniferous – leaves, needles, pinecones, etc. fall at different times of the year.
Downspouts are responsible for properly draining runoff safely away from the foundation. Clean them thoroughly and remove any blockages by flushing the downpipes with water or use a plumber’s auger for more stubborn clogs.
Inspect the Gutter System
Conduct a visual inspection of the gutter system after heavy rainfall, severe windstorms, and in between gutter cleanings. Don’t forget the roof: check for any debris hanging around flashings, chimneys, and other roof protrusions – if there is, you’ll want to remove it, because if you don’t, guess where it will end up? Check the gutters and downspouts for loose hardware, sagging or missing sections, leaks, and worn seams.
Schedule a professional gutter inspection once every two to three years for gutter systems under 10 years old, and every one to two years for gutters that are older.
Make Repairs
Once you’ve inspected the gutters after a storm or in between gutter cleanings, take action. Reapply sealant to worn gutter joints and mitres; reattach loose downspouts to exterior walls; and replace missing and/or broken brackets and hardware.
Hire a professional to make repairs if they are extensive; in hard-reach areas of the roof; or you don’t have the DIY skill set to fix the problem.
Install Gutter Guards
If you’re constantly having to clean the gutters, installing gutter guards could be the ideal solution for you and your home. Select a leaf protection system that is specifically designed to match the types of trees growing on your property. For example gutter guards for deciduous trees typically have larger holes while leaf protection with smaller holes or narrow slots are more effective in managing a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees. Also ensure that the gutter guards are compatible with the roof.
Trim Nearby Trees
It’s not just debris that can cause damage to the gutters. Trim nearby trees so they don’t scape the protective granules from asphalt shingles; damage other types of roofs; and dent the gutters on a windy day.
Eliminate “Bad” Gutter Cleaning Habits
An excellent way to protect your gutters from damage is to change habits that can be harmful to your gutter system. Reduce the chance of damaging the gutters by:
- Scheduling time throughout the year for regular home maintenance, including the gutters
- Not procrastinating – hire a professional contractor if you can never seem to find the time
- Using a ladder stabilizer – an attachment for ladders to keep it from directly leaning against aluminum gutters and denting them
- Selecting the right tools for the job
- Using the right cleaning and repairing techniques
- Giving yourself enough time to complete the task without rushing or taking shortcuts
