The roof stands between the interior of your home and the elements of the outside world and weather. It is a barrier against snow, hail, rain, ice, branches, and other debris blown around in the wind. However, the gutters play an equally crucial role. They are not just a part of the roof, but the first line of defense, directing water and debris away from your roof and foundation. Therefore, regular roof maintenance, including gutter cleaning, is essential. Clogged gutters result in various safety or structural risks. Gutter cleaning should be done at least twice a year – typically in the fall and late spring – to avoid the risk of damage to your roof and allowing the water to flow away from the building. We will walk through gutter cleaning in this article, looking at potential risks of neglecting gutter cleaning, signs of when the gutters need to be cleaned, equipment, and safe gutter cleaning tips.
Potential risks of neglecting gutter cleaning
Water damage
When regular gutter cleaning is neglected, excess water cannot flow down and travels through crevices and cracks in the siding. This can lead to various issues, from a leaky roof to basement flooding. Extensive damage will occur over time, visible as stains on the walls and ceiling and damaged and rotting roofing material due to water dams. The water will pool around your building, with the risk of damaging or flooding the basement. This underlines the crucial role of gutters in preventing basement flooding, making regular gutter cleaning a vital task for your home’s safety.
Cracked foundation
The gutter drains water, melting ice and snow away from the house. Without gutters, there is no protection against pooling water. Erosion and pooling water will weaken your foundation over time, leading to cracks, shifting, or settling. Cracked foundations result in uneven floors and cracks in the walls. The financial damage you can incur from a cracked foundation is significant, and according to the Insurance Information Institute, it is one of the most common and costly problems homeowners face. It underlines the urgency and importance of regular gutter cleaning to avoid such financial and structural consequences.
Pest Infestations
Clogged gutters create an attractive place for rodents and pests to nest. Stagnant water attracts mosquitoes, and accumulated debris provides a nesting place for rodents, insects, and birds. Apart from damaging your roof, it can create a health hazard for your family. It can lead to more expensive repairs as the average cost for pest infestation ranges between $300 to $600.
Roof and fascia damage
The weight of the clogged gutters, holding water and debris, will cause them to become heavy and break away from the fascia. This part of the roof will be inefficient, and water will seep into the house. Water dams form when snow melts on the roof. When it runs down the cold, clogged gutters, it can freeze again, causing the ice dams to collect under the shingles, and the moisture damages the roof. With clogged gutters, the weight of snow, debris, and water from excessive rain will be on the roof, which could be compromised by moisture, causing the roof to collapse.
Decreased home appeal
Neglected gutters can affect your home’s curb appeal. Walls become stained, and debris and plant growth in gutters present an unkempt appearance. It can be detrimental if you want to sell your house, as it indicates the need for more maintenance.
Reduce fire hazards
Dried debris from trees and leaves blown onto the roof can be a potential fire hazard and be highly combustible. Embers could ignite that debris, endangering your home and the inhabitants, especially with high winds.
Signs when gutters need to be cleaned
Here are the main signs that will indicate your gutters need cleaning:
- Vermin and insects are present. Scratching noises when you sleep or unusual insect activity and presence could indicate that your clogged gutters created a habitat for the unwanted activity.
- Water overflowing. Water cascading over your gutters or spilling over the sides indicates that the gutters are blocked. The water is not free-flowing down the drainpipe.
- Sagging gutters: A slight sag or bend in the gutter can be caused by the weight of debris or a buildup of water that needs to be cleared.
- Stains appear. Discoloration on the fascia could indicate water damage. Water standing in the gutter will become dirty and stagnant, causing stains and an unsightly appearance.
- Plants or weeds growing. Wind can deposit seeds on your roof, which will start sprouting with excess water.
- Exterior paint damage. Paint damage will be visible inside and outside the house. The paint will bubble, peel, or chip. Inside the house, there will be water marks running down the walls.
Safety Tips
Cleaning your gutters could put you in an unsafe position when working at a height on the roof if you don’t protect yourself. It would help if you did the following to ensure your safety:
- Use the right equipment: A sturdy ladder, gloves, a scoop, and a hose. A ladder stabilizer can provide additional support, reducing the risks of accidents.
- Wear protective gear: Rubber gloves and safety glasses protect your eyes and hands from unknown objects in the gutter. A dust mask can protect against dust and other gases.
- Clear the debris first: Remove large debris with a scoop, broom, or your hands. Have a bucket or bag available to discard the debris. A tarp on the ground can help to discard debris from the roof easily.
- Flush with water: Use a hose to flush the gutters and downspouts, checking at the same time whether the water runs freely.
Gutter cleaning is a vital aspect of home maintenance that should be addressed. To be safe and protect your property, take note of the potential risks, signs when to do gutter cleaning, and how to go about gutter cleaning. If you need any help regarding your roof, don’t hesitate to call Frontline Home Solutions for advice and assistance.
