Functioning rain gutters are absolutely vital to a roof. Your roof directs precipitation off your home, but if your gutters are clogged, water won’t drain the way it’s supposed to, and that means trouble for your roof and the rest of your home.
Avoid Roof Rot
If your rain gutters are clogged with piles of soggy leaves, sticks and other debris, a heavy rainstorm will mean pools of water in the gutters that have no way to drain.
In the summer, this water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. In winter, the problem is a bit more complex.
When snow melts, it has to be able to drain off of your roof quickly. If your gutters are blocked, the water backs up underneath the shingles, refreezes, melts, then refreezes again. This forms what is commonly known as an ice dam, and it’s one of the main causes of roof rot.
Sitting water dampens and decays your roof’s decking and can lead to mold. This problem is minimized when you make sure your rain gutters are clear.
A Host of Additional Benefits
Besides preserving your roof, your gutter system also provides many other valuable benefits.
First, a water drainage system that’s designed properly will always direct water away from the home’s foundation, preventing flooding and ensuring soil stabilization. It will also prevent landscaping from washing away. Your walkways and sidewalks will be less likely to crack and sink because supporting soil will stay in place.
Wood door and window frames are susceptible to rot if water is pouring over them during every rainstorm, and vinyl or brick siding can stain. Rain gutters preserve the exterior of your home.
Spring and Fall Are the Seasons for Gutter Cleaning
It’s fall — have you cleaned your gutters yet?
Most experts agree that how often your gutters need cleaning varies based on how many trees you have near your home. Lots of foliage nearby may warrant more cleanings, but on average, it’s smart to clean the entire water drainage system twice per year, once in the spring and once in the fall.
In the fall, you’re making sure that the rain gutters are free of leaves and set to properly function all winter long. In the spring, you’re clearing out all of the debris that was blown into them during the long, frigid winter.
Hire a Pro or No?
At the Roof Doctor, we know how risky it can be to climb on a steep roof. Consider hiring a professional gutter cleaner to take care of this task, especially if you’re wary of heights. Call the Roof Doctor for more information on keeping your rain gutters clear. We will give you suggestions based on the size and positioning of your roof.