What Does Gutter Cleaning Include and Why Should You Bother with It?

Keeping your gutters clean on a regular basis protects your biggest investment—your home.

Autumn is a pleasant season when the colors of fall blanket the nation with gorgeous views and crashing leaves. However, filthy gutters are usually accompanied by clogged gutters, as well as the need for gutter cleaning.

It's a pricey mistake to ignore your gutters if rainwater leaks into your home or damages it, putting a serious damper on curb appeal. Rainwater in your gutters can also serve as a mosquito and fly breeding ground. From the roof down to the basement, and everything in between, we've collected all you need to know about gutter cleaning and why it's so essential to keep them clean.

What Is Gutter Cleaning?

Gutter cleaning is the act of removing any debris, filth, and leaves from your gutters and downspouts that block the free flow of rainwater from the roof to the ground.

Professionals may remove debris by hand or with a shovel. They'll flush the gutter system with water to wash out any remaining particles, allowing rainwater to flow freely through it.

Gutter System Components

Without gutters, rainwater would pour off your roof unchecked and potentially damage your home.

A gutter system includes the following components:

Gutter: Attaches to the edge of the eaves on your roof

End cap: Closes gutters

Fascia bracket: Connects to the eaves and provides structural support

Downspout: Allows rainwater to travel from the roof to the ground

Elbow: Snaps onto the downspout and redirects the water away from your home

What Clean Gutters Do and Why They’re Essential

When leaves, debris, dirt, and twigs get trapped in gutter systems, they prevent them from functioning effectively.

When clean and free of clogs, rain gutters perform an essential function. They offer the following advantages:

Rainwater that falls on your roof should be diverted from your home.

Keep your windows and window sills dry to prevent moisture and condensation.

Heavy rain should be avoided on the outside and inside walls.

Keep your basement and foundation dry by preventing water from seeping in.

Now that we know how gutter cleaning preserves your home, let's take a closer look.

Prevents Roof Damage

Rainwater is supposed to travel through your gutters and downspouts, but when leaves and dirt clog them, the water gets trapped. Not only does this cause Guttersmith issues for your home, but it can also be a safety hazard.

Several issues can occur when rainwater seeps through the surface of your roof, including:

Roof rot

Weaken your roof’s construction

Seep from the roof into your home

Protect Exterior Walls

When water and debris build up in your gutters, it can put unnecessary strain on the system--and even cause gaps that let rainwater through.

Areas affected include:

Your roof is covered in shingles.

Soffits keep your roof in good condition and prevent moisture from entering the attic.

Fascias ventilating the roof

If your home's exterior walls get waterlogged, they won't function properly. Additionally, mold, mildew, and algae will grow on the exterior wall and your paint will start to peel and chip.

Prevents Cracks in Foundations

Gutters that are clogged with muck allow water from your roof to flow straight into your basement and foundation. It may also harm your lawn.

Excessive water levels saturating the ground causes soil expansion. This pushes your foundation up. After the water dries and the soil contracts, there is now a strain on your foundation due to the continuous process of expanding and contracting.

When water gets into your basement, it can cause the following issues:

Windows and doors that don’t shut

Uneven flooring

Cracks in drywall

A clear gutter system prevents water damage to your basement, foundation, and yard.

Deters Animal Nesting and Insect Infestations

Small animals and insects are very attracted to still water sources, as they frequently use them for drinking.

Insects, birds, and squirrels may build a nest in the leaves within your gutters. It's an easy commute for these animals to nest, breed, and infest your attic from the gutter.

How Often You Should Clean Your Gutters

Homeowners should clean their gutters at least once or twice a year, with autumn being the best time after the leaves fall from trees. Spring is also an ideal season for gutter cleaning if there are plenty of trees on your property that could potentially clog your gutters.

Giving the job to an experienced gutter cleaning company can stop falls and also let them take a look for any issues with wear or drainage.

Should You Hire a Professional for Gutter Cleaning or Do It Yourself?

If you're afraid of heights, don't like getting dirty, and would rather avoid pests altogether, then having your gutters cleaned professionally is probably the best option for you.

Gutter cleaning is an essential aspect of house upkeep, but it is frequently neglected. That's why we're here to explain what gutter cleaning entails and why it's so essential. Regular gutter cleaning can not only help maintain your property in excellent shape, but it can also prevent costly water damage in the future. So don't put it off any longer; give us a call now and let us take care of this important job for you!

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