Your rain gutters do an important job by channeling water off your roof and away from your home. When they're in poor condition, eaves and walls can sustain major water damage. Now that spring is knocking on the door, it’s time to assess the condition of your gutters following winter and make sure they’re set for the wet weeks ahead. Here are some issues to keep in mind.

Why You Need Spring Gutter Repair & Maintenance

1. Winter Damage

in Tennessee, it's rare to accumulate enough ice and snow to harm your gutters. But even in the South, changing temperatures, moderately heavy rainfall, and the remnants of last fall's leaves can still take quite a toll. Check for cracks, clogs, and areas where the gutters have pulled away from the side of the home. 

2. Spring Rains

If winter's rainfall is enough to put a strain on your gutters, spring will be that much worse. May is typically the wettest month of the year, and the weight of all that water can continue to pull your rain gutters away from the building. Check your downspouts, too, and make sure they’re aligned correctly to avoid flooding your foundation.

3. Pollen & Sap

As the weather warms up, plants and trees around your home are starting to wake up for the season. Depending on the types of plants you have, this can mean deep drifts of pollen and blossoms that can clog your rain gutters. Dripping sap is a stickier problem—it can coat the metal or vinyl, creating traps for leaves and debris. While most spring detritus can be taken care of with a standard cleaning, don’t be surprised if sap proves to be more stubborn. 

4. Insects

Your gutters are designed to slope down toward the downspout. But if you have sagging areas or clogs, you may end up with standing water in your gutters. This creates a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which can make your spring unpleasant. A thorough cleaning will clear out blockages and allow water to flow to the downspouts, reducing the mosquito population around your home.

To make sure your rain gutters are in top shape this spring and arrange gutter cleaning, repair, or replacement, choose Borden Seamless Guttering & Siding in Cookeville, TN. Serving Putnam County for over 40 years, they offer personalized service from experienced contractors whose quick work and affordable prices make them the area's first choice for gutters and siding. To schedule a visit, call (931) 528-2816 or send a message online.