The gutters on your roof are responsible for directing water away from the property. When gutters become clogged with debris, they can cause many serious problems. However, many issues can be mitigated by following a consistent roof maintenance routine. Here are five key reasons why gutters need to be cleaned.
1. Roof Damage
Leaves and sticks in your roof’s gutter system can lead to roof damage. During rainstorms, water can easily overwhelm clogged gutters and spill over onto the roof edge. This moisture can seep into the roof, leading to issues like wood warping and mold growth. Additionally, the water’s weight can cause the gutters to pull away from the roof, damaging the fascia and molding.
2. Keep Out Pests
A gutter system full of dirt, standing water, and organic material is an ideal habitat for pests. As more pests become attracted to the area, these unwelcome guests can begin to find their way into your home. To prevent these issues, consider scheduling gutter cleaning at least twice per year.
3. Damage to Fascia
The gutter system itself is attached to the fascia board. When the gutters are clogged, water will spill over onto the fascia and cause the wood to warp or rot. This will cause gaps to form in the fascia and roof edge. If this problem isn’t addressed, you could end up with roof leaks during rainy weather.
4. Overwatering Garden Beds
Another reason to keep gutters clean is to prevent garden beds from receiving too much water. When your home’s gutters are clogged, any water will simply fall directly down the side of the house. The distance the water travels to the ground, and the flooding it creates can be catastrophic for garden beds.
5. Cracks in Foundation
Keeping gutters clean will preserve the integrity of your home’s foundation. When water collects around the perimeter of your house for long enough, cracks in the foundation can begin to form. If the problem continues for long enough, major repair work may need to be done.When you need assistance with gutter cleaning for your Missouri home, rely on our Midwest Roofing team. Since 2008, our dedicated team has helped thousands of homeowners with roof and gutter installation. Call us to discuss your roofing concerns, and we’ll be happy to help.
