Spring is finally here and you may have some projects planned to spruce up your home, like landscaping and pressure washing. One part of your home you don’t want to neglect is your gutters. Your gutters go through a lot of wear and tear during the fall and winter months. The fall leaves clog gutters and the winter ice and snow can weigh down gutters and pull nails and brackets loose. Spring is the perfect time to clean, repair, replace and add a gutter guard system to your gutters
Gutters move water away from your home’s windows, siding and foundation. Gutters that are not properly maintained can cause erosion problems around your home as well as wood rot and structural damage.
Here are some signs that it is time for you to clean, repair or replace your gutters.
Cracked and split gutters
Water can seep through cracks and damage the fascia boards, your walls and even your foundation.
Mold, Algae or Mildew Spots
If you see mold, algae or mildew spots on your gutters it can be a sign that gutters are leaking or overflowing. Reasons for overflow include dams, blockage and inadequate flow.
If you see mold and mildew near the gutters or foundation it is a sign of improper drainage.
Water pooling near foundation
If you notice water gathering along the side of your home it may be because of cracks, blockage or a gutter design flaw. This water can lead to flooding, structural damage and mold growth.
Standing water can damage landscaping, cause soil erosion and even bring unwanted mosquito infestation.
Stains or damaged siding
Water streaks or stains in the same color as your siding or warped siding can be caused by gutter problems. If the gutters on your home haven’t been inspected lately or are old, they could be out of alignment which can cause rainwater to flow behind them or the siding.
Sagging or warped gutters
Gutters should never sag or warp. Sagging or warped gutters can be a sign of rotted fascia, severe water or foundation damage.
What to do?
Gutter Cleaning: For clogged gutters a simple and cost-effective solution is to have your gutters cleaned. The most effective way to clean gutters is to hire a contractor that uses a vacuum based gutter cleaning system to remove all debris (leaves, shingle grit, nails). A vacuum system leaves zero mess, protects existing landscaping, and can examine the inside of the gutter with a built-in camera.
LeaFree™ Gutter Protection: LeaFree™ Gutter Protection keeps leaves, pine needles, sticks and other debris out of the gutters. This nail free gutter protection is retrofitted to your existing gutter. Unlike other leaf guard systems that can void your roof warranty, this system is designed to work with roofing manufacturer specifications.
Seamless Gutter Installation + Repair: If you have a more complex issue than a clogged gutter then it may be time to install seamless gutters. Seamless gutters that are fabricated onsite and designed to keep water away from your home can protect your home’s foundation and structure. The fasteners and nails on a seamless gutter system are located inside the gutter itself, allowing for a clean look.
Splash Blocks: An easy and simple solution to get water from the downspout and directed away from the house is to install splash blocks on the ground.
Notice any of these signs? It might be time for a gutter cleaning or gutter installation.
Contact Streamline Roofing at 757-585-4362 to schedule a free estimate. Streamline Roofing is locally owned and operated and is fully licensed and insured. Streamline Roofing’s services include: Roof Repairs and Replacement, Guttering and Soft and Pressure Washing.
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