As the leaves change and fall from the trees, it’s time to start thinking about the home maintenance tasks that need to be completed before winter. One job that’s often overlooked is cleaning the gutters. While it may not seem like a priority, there are several good reasons to make sure the gutters are clean.
1. Avoid Water Damage
If gutters are allowed to become clogged with leaves and debris, they no longer funnel water away from your home’s foundation. When gutters back up, water can seep into your crawlspace or affect your foundation, leading to serious water damage. In addition, if the gutters are attached to your home’s siding, the excess weight of wet leaves and debris can cause them to pull away from the house, causing issues with drainage around the home.
2. Clean the Gutters to Prevent Pest Infestations
Gutters clogged with wet leaves and debris provide the perfect breeding ground for various pests, including mosquitoes, termites, and carpenter ants. Mosquitoes are a nuisance, and carpenter ants and termites may damage your home. By keeping your gutters clean, you can help prevent an infestation.
3. Reduce the Chances of Mold Growth
Clean gutters allow water to move away from your home. When they become clogged, the gutters overflow, leading to moisture beneath the roofing materials and behind the siding. Excessive moisture contributes to an environment conducive to mold growth. Mold, mildew, or algae might develop on the roof, siding, or in the attic.
4. To Extend the Life of Your Gutters
Gutters constantly full of wet leaves and debris will eventually start to rust and deteriorate. Regularly cleaning your gutters extends their life and helps you avoid having to replace them prematurely.
How to Clean the Gutters
If you have a lot of trees around your home, you may need to clean your gutters frequently. Leaves and debris can build up quickly and cause the channels to become clogged.
Cleaning your gutters is not difficult, but it is essential to do it safely. You will need a ladder and gloves to protect your hands from the debris. Start by removing leaves, pine needles, twigs, and debris from the gutter using a scoop or gloved hands. Then, use a nozzle attachment on the garden hose to rinse the channels. Make sure water is flowing freely out the downspouts.
Cleaning gutters may not be the most fun task on your fall to-do list, but it’s worth doing. Not only will it help prevent water damage and pest infestations, but it will also help extend the life of your gutters.
Northern Florida Home Inspections provides inspections to customers in northern Florida. Contact us to schedule our services.