You regularly clean your bedroom, kitchen counters, and even the leaves on your front lawn. How often do you clear out your gutters and downspouts? Although not high on the priority list, keeping your gutters and downspouts clean is incredibly important for the overall health and maintenance of your home. Clogs in your drainage system can lead to leaks in the walls or roof. Columbia Roofing, an elite roofing company located in Elkridge, MD, has more than 30 years of experience in exteriors. They recommend regularly cleaning out gutters and downspouts to decrease the chances of water damage.

Understanding the importance of keeping gutters and downspouts clean will help you remember to maintain them regularly:

• Keep Clear of Clogs: Leaves, animal nests, sticks, ice, and other debris can all contribute to a clog in your gutter. This disrupts the flow of water and inhibits it from draining properly. If severe enough, this can create an overflow and cause water to seep into your roof, down your walls, and even into your basement. This kind of moisture can lead to mold growth or deterioration. Avoid the expenses of installing new siding by keeping your gutters clear of clogs.

• Direct Water Away: It is important that downspouts are directing rainwater away from your home. Water that pools up at the base can potentially create an unstable environment for your foundation. This may also cause soil erosion, ruin gardens, and lead to a leak in the basement. If you have trouble preventing water from pooling in one spot, consider placing a rain barrel at the end of the downspouts. These will collect water throughout a storm without causing damage to your grounds or foundation.

• Keep Your Home Looking Fresh: If you already mow the lawn, rake the leaves, and tend to your garden, don't allow your exterior to look unkempt by leaving debris in the gutters. Cleaning out your gutters and downspouts is an essential step in maintaining a fresh, stylish home. Grab a secure ladder and work your way down the drainage system. A thorough cleaning should take place at least twice per year, at the beginning of autumn and the beginning of spring.

Keeping gutters and downspouts clear is an excellent way to help ensure the longevity of your home. If clogs and water damage have harmed your roof, however, call Columbia Roofing in Elkridge, MD, for exceptional roof or gutter repair. Visit their website for more information, or dial (410) 479-6100 today.