They say a little rain never hurt anybody, but just one inch of rainfall runoff on a typical 1,000-foot roof translates to about 623 gallons of water falling from the eaves. That amount can cause a lot of damage to your roof if your gutters are not up to the job. Unfortunately, a lot of homeowners don't give their gutters a second thought until they’re clogged or ripped from fastening. Here's a brief guide on why gutters are important to your roofing system.

Why Are They Important?

A gutter's primary function is to funnel water away from the house. Faulty gutters could result in water collecting on the ground near the home's foundation. These standing pools lead to flooding and mold buildup. Your home will also be susceptible to infestations from insects that breed in standing water, such as mosquitos. Gutters also help protect your roofing system. Without them, water runoff can seep under the shingles and cause roof damage, as well as cause exterior walls, decks, and patios to rot.

Gutters are also crucial in protecting your home from erosion. The topsoil safeguards the home's foundation, but if water is not properly diverted, it could erode and weaken the structure.

How to Take Care of Gutters

Clean out accumulated debris at least twice a year. Check that the trough is not pulling away from the house. Any loose hangers or brackets should be tightened. You can also switch to using screws, as they tend to do a better job holding gutters in place. Examine the entire system for rust, dents, and holes. Lastly, seal leaks with a butyl-based caulk when the gutter is dry.

Don't take chances with your gutter system. A & J Quality Roofing will make sure that your roofing system is secure. The New Hartford, CT-based company accepts any roofing jobs, from whole roof replacements to minor roof repair. They also offer carpentry services and skylight installations. You can check out their website or call (860) 836-9427.