A gutter system serves the critical purpose of diverting rainwater from a home, thus preventing the water from damaging the property’s foundation, exterior, and surroundings. Without a properly-functioning gutter system, a property is likely to suffer a long list of costly damages, including foundation damages, flooding basements, damaged exteriors, mold growth, and garden erosion. Consequently, amounting to an overall decreased property lifespan. Despite the benefits of having a functioning gutter system being indisputable, many homeowners tend to neglect this critical component of a property. Unraveled in the subsequent paragraphs are pointers to maintaining a gutter system.
Clean the gutter system regularly
In general, it is recommended that you clean your gutter system twice a year. Once during spring and once during fall. However, if your property’s surrounding is detailed with plenty of trees, they regularly shed their leaves onto the gutters. You can do the cleaning more often. There are several ways you can leverage to clean the system. Based on the type of debris in the gutter and whether the debris is wet or dry. For instance, when the debris in the gutter is wet, you can scoop them out and drop them on clothing or a plastic tarp placed on the ground.
When cleaning the gutter, do not forget to inspect the downspouts for clogs and get rid of them. A downspout clogged with debris prevents water from flowing, forcing it to back-up and spill over the gutter sides during downpours.
Inspect the gutter system for leaks and holes
Inspecting the gutter system for leaks lets you know whether you will have to run minor repairs yourself or liaise with gutter replacements sydney to overhaul the whole system and fit in a new one. To inspect the gutter system for leaks and holes, you need to find a position where you can comfortably set up a ladder. You then run a hose in your position and place it inside the gutter so that water flows through the system. As the water flows through the system, you will have to walk around the property to identify whether water is draining in places where it should not be draining. You will probably need assistance in holding the hose in position as you inspect the system and note areas with leaks and holes.
Perform the needed repair and maintenance
Small cracks, gaps, and holes in the gutter system identified during the inspection routine can be sealed with gutter glue. You can also leverage on roofing cement in sealing pinholes or large. On the other hand, if the damage to the system is extensive, perhaps it is time for a replacement. A few signs that a gutter system is ready for replacement include rusted gutters, numerous sizeable cracks and splits across the system, and broken sections.
In summary, ensuring you have a good gutter system protects your home from various costly damages that could be caused by running water and increases the overall value of your property’s lifespan.
