Unmaintained gutters can damage your home, especially during heavy seasons. As we approach April, it's essential to know ways to make gutters ready for April showers. Gutters route the water from your roof away from your house to protect siding, windows, doors, and foundations from water damage and help prevent basement flooding. Let’s discuss how you can clean and maintain your gutters for this.
There are six things you should do to maintain the integrity of your gutters.
Cleaning your gutters
Proper gutter maintenance should begin with cleaning them out. To clean your gutters and downspouts, you should remove all leaves and debris that prevents water from flowing through. If the water can’t get through, water will dam up, fill the gutters, overflow, and can even pull the gutters loose.
There are three steps to cleaning your gutters.
1. Scoop out loose debris. Use a small garden trowel or a gutter scoop to scoop debris out of the gutter. The best time to do this is when the debris is damp. Consider dropping the debris into a bucket to make the clean up easier.
2. Blast out the gutters with a hose. After you’ve scooped out most of the debris, use a hose with plenty of pressure and a nozzle that can be turned on or off to wash away what’s left.
3. Clear obstructions in drainpipes. If you notice that water doesn’t flow freely through the gutters, try flushing the debris with a hose. If that still doesn’t work, you might have to use a plumber’s auger (snake) or push it through from the top.
Secure your gutters
To repair loose gutters, replace the gutter spikes with gutter screws. Gutter screws hold gutters in place more securely than standard gutter spikes.
Seal any leaks
If you notice leaks in your gutters, you’ll want to seal them. To repair a leaking gutter joint, first, clean the area then seal it with silicone caulk.
Repair the downspouts
Check to ensure all of your downspouts are clear of leaves and debris. You should also check the joints to be sure they fit together properly.
Monitor your water runoff
In addition to clearing them of debris, make sure the water coming out of the downspout is diverted away from your home. If not, use a downspout extension, irrigation pipe, or splash blocks.
Check them regularly
Inspect and clear gutters in both spring and autumn. You’ll also want to be aware of how your gutters are holding up during times of heavy rain and melting snow.
Your gutters play a big role in protecting your house from water damage. Follow these six recommendations to be sure your gutters are in good shape. And if you need a professional to take a look at your gutters or fascia, give JB Roofing a call. We’d love to help.