Home Maintenance Basics: Managing Gutter Issues
Any issues with the gutter system can prevent them from functioning correctly and can lead to significant damage.
Gutters perform the essential task of rerouting rainwater away from the roof and the home to protect their structural integrity. Any issues with the gutter system can prevent them from functioning correctly and can lead to significant damage.
Regular gutter cleaning and timely maintenance checks are essential household tasks to keep them healthy and in good condition and avoid more extensive and costly problems down the road. Fortunately, most gutter issues are simple to fix and easily manageable by homeowners. This article highlights a few common gutter problems homeowners can face and some simple ways to manage them:
Clogs
Dirty and choked gutters are the most common issues every homeowner encounters at some point. Clogging occurs when dirt, leaves, twigs, and other debris accumulates in the gutter and downspouts and restricts the water flow to prevent gutters from draining properly.
Gutter cleaning once or twice a year and after significant storms is the most efficient way to prevent severe gutter clogs. Get on a ladder and wear gloves to remove all debris and flush it with a hose to ensure thorough cleaning. Invest in gutter guards to reduce gutter cleaning frequency. Also, consider installing seamless gutters that are easier to clean.
Leaks and holes
If you notice a constant drip or stream of water from any of its sections, it is a sign of a leaky gutter. Clogs, holes, cracks, and misplaced joints are the common causes of gutter leaks. In addition, a gutter system can develop a hole after a significant storm or wear and tear over time.
It is simple to fix leaky gutters. Use a waterproof gutter caulk or sealant to seal small holes, cracks, and joints. Patching is an ideal solution for larger holes. Get a patching kit from a hardware store or make a patch from the metal flashing.
Improperly sloped gutter system
An improperly angled gutter prevents water from flowing smoothly to the downspout and results in water pooling. The gutter system should slope at least a quarter-inch every 10 feet. The incorrect slope is the probable culprit if the gutter fails to drain properly and there is no visible leak.
The possible solution may involve bending the hanger or reinstalling the hanger. Experts recommend hiring a gutter company with the right experience and tools to ensure the gutter is pitched correctly.
Sagging or damaged gutters
Gutters can get damaged, or their sections can sag or pull away from the roof due to lack of proper maintenance, poor installation, hardware deterioration, loose hangers, debris buildup, or a severe storm. A loose, damaged, or sagging gutter fails to do its job correctly.
Tighten the screws or replace the hardware to secure gutter joints or reattach loose or sagging sections. Other solutions may include unclogging the gutter, installing new hangers, or replacing the entire gutter system.
Incorrect downspout positioning
If the downspouts are too close to the foundation, the water may pool near the foundation or basement wall. To fix this problem, install gutter extensions to allow water to drain away from the foundation.
Maintain the gutters
Regular gutter cleaning and maintenance can prevent gutter issues from worsening. Invest in a new gutter system if the home has no gutters or the existing system is inadequate, old, or outdated.
Clover Valley Home Service offers reliable service in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, baseboard and crown molding, sprinkler repair, fence repair or replacement, yard work and cleanup, and fire defense space preparation services. Our work is guaranteed. Call (916) 742-3141 today!
