In Minnesota, it is important to have gutters on your home because spring, summer, and fall can often bring a lot of rain and moisture. Gutters are important because they collect water from your roof and redirect it to an appropriate area away from your home. Gutters help prevent water from running towards your foundation and causing leaking or flooding.
Gutters also protect things like:
- Siding
- Windows
- Roofing systems
With all of that being said, the only way gutters can perform their job properly is if they are kept free of debris and properly maintained. Today, we’ll be covering how to clean and upkeep your gutters.
Signs Your Gutters Need Maintenance
Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage, but they often go unnoticed until a problem arises. Regular maintenance is essential to keep them functioning properly. Here are some signs that your gutters need attention:
Overflowing Water
If you notice water spilling over the sides of your gutters during rainfall, it’s a clear indication that they are clogged. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can block the flow of water, causing it to overflow and potentially damage your home’s foundation.
Sagging Gutters
Gutters should run parallel to your roofline. If they appear to be sagging or pulling away from the house, it could mean they’re filled with debris or that the hardware is failing. Either scenario requires immediate action to prevent more serious issues.
Water Stains or Damage
Check the exterior of your home for water stains or damage, especially near the gutters. Stains can indicate that water is not being properly directed away from your home, leading to potential rot and mold growth.
Peeling Paint or Rust
Flaking paint or rust on your gutters is a sign they are not draining properly. Constant exposure to water can cause these issues, signaling that maintenance is overdue.
Pest Infestations
Clogged gutters can become a breeding ground for pests like mosquitoes and rodents. If you notice an increase in pests around your home, your gutters might be part of the problem.
Regular gutter maintenance can save you time and money in the long run by preventing costly repairs. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection.
4 Professional Tips For Maintaining Your Gutters
Want to take care of your gutters like a pro? Follow these tips:
1) Keep Your Gutters Clear of Debris
After a season of rain, a lot of debris can be pulled into your gutters by water and gravity. Things like leaves, sticks, and granules from your shingles, are just a few things that can be pulled into your gutters and clog them. After a while, these things begin to accumulate in your gutters and clog the downspout holes. When this happens the water begins to back up in your gutters because it has nowhere to exit. The gutters then begin to fill with water until they start spilling out of the gutters as if you didn’t have gutters in the first place. In order to prevent this from happening, you should have your gutters cleaned out once a year.
2) Make Sure the Seals in Your Gutters are Solid
Your gutters will have sealant on things like your end caps or downspout holes. The sealant helps seal the seams to make sure the water is directed properly. After a time, the sealant can begin to degrade and get worn down from either rain or the sun. When it starts to wear down, it can leave those areas susceptible to leaking. By taking a look at the seals when you have your gutters cleaned, you can prevent any issues with the seals leaking.
3) Have Debris Guards Installed on Your Gutters
Debris guards can come in different forms. No matter what type you choose, these guards can help prevent debris from getting in your gutters in the first place. This not only prevents debris but can eliminate having to clean your gutters every single year.
4) Make Sure Downspouts and Extensions are Properly Placed
This final step is simple but very important. Having the downspouts and extensions in the proper places can be the difference in keeping water out of your home. If a downspout is improperly installed, the water comes out of the downspout and runs back to your home’s foundation, which defeats the purpose of the gutters in the first place. Your downspouts and extensions should be placed so that the water leaves the extension and runs away from your home.
How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?
Want to know how to build a gutter maintenance plan? Here’s how often you should be maintaining your gutters.
- Seasonally: It is generally recommended to clean your gutters at least four times a year—once in each season. This ensures they are free from debris following the fall, winter, spring, and summer months.
- After Severe Weather: Following heavy storms or strong winds, inspect your gutters for any debris that may have accumulated and clean them if necessary.
- If You Have Overhanging Trees: If your home is surrounded by trees, you may need to clean your gutters more frequently, perhaps every two to three months, to prevent leaves and twigs from clogging the system.
- Before Winter: Clean gutters before winter to prevent snow and ice buildup, which can lead to freezing and potential structural damage.
- Check Twice a Year: For a general guideline, inspect and clean your gutters at least twice a year, especially in the spring and fall, to keep them functioning optimally.
Trustworthy Gutter Services
Gutter maintenance is key in order to avoid damages to your home exterior. But you don’t have to go it alone!
If you have any more questions about gutters or protecting your home’s exterior, give us a call or contact us today!
