5 Common Gutter Maintenance Errors and How to Avoid Them
Inaccurate gutters can affect the aspect ratio of the home, making it less desirable from a building aspect. A well-maintained home will continue to be desired and will add money to your bottom line.
The question is, what do you need to do to keep your gutters in good shape so that they work well and don’t make your home’s value go down over time?
In this article, we’re going to go over a few common gutter maintenance errors and how to avoid them.
1. Not Having a Cleaning Routine
Neglecting to keep up with a consistent gutter maintenance routine can quickly lead to a variety of maintenance errors. When trash builds up near downspouts, rainwater can flow right onto walks and cause people to slip and fall or cause other damage.
Regular gutter inspections, like cleaning out the gutters and clearing out the downspouts, will keep your gutter system in good shape. Also, this will keep you from having to pay for expensive repairs.
2. Forgetting to Check for Leaks
It’s easy to miss these leaks, but they can cause costly damage over time. To avoid this mistake, homeowners should check their gutters twice a year for any signs of leaks.
If you’re concerned about the condition of the gutter, inspect it after heavy rain. Additionally, homeowners should inspect the gutters for rust and corrosion.
If any signs of damage are present, it is highly recommended to get professional help to repair the damage. Installing a gutter guard can further reduce the chances of leaks due to clogged gutters.
3. Failing to Address Sagging Gutters
To avoid this error and ensure proper gutter support, make sure that all gutter hangers are secured tightly to the house’s fascia board. Also, ensure the gutters are cleared of any leaves and debris.
Additionally, check in on your gutter hangers periodically to monitor any signs of damage. This includes rust and corrosion. If hangers are in need of repair or replacement, address them immediately so that your gutter system is secure and in good working order.
4. Improper Downspout Placement
To help avoid this, it’s best to install downspouts on each side of the house as close to the corner as possible. This will help more efficiently drain the gutters and reduce the chances of water building up and overflowing.
Additionally, it’s important to make sure each downspout is placed at least 10 feet away from the foundation. This will help ensure that the water is directed away from the foundation.
5. Not Asking for Professional Help
Not asking for professional help is a common mistake when it comes to gutter maintenance. An untrained homeowner may think they can save money by cleaning their gutters themselves, but this can lead to problems.
If you don’t know what you’re doing or don’t have the right safety gear, it can be dangerous to try to clean your own gutters. If you need help with maintenance or gutter installation, it is best to call a professional. Doing so will ensure the job is done properly and safely.
Avoid These Common Gutter Maintenance Errors
To avoid common gutter maintenance errors, be sure to inspect gutters on a regular basis for any debris buildup, and take note of any signs of rust or water damage.
Never attempt cleaning or repairs yourself if you do not have the proper tools or expertise. For all your gutter maintenance needs, contact a professional gutter specialist today.
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