Without a properly functioning gutter system, heavy rain will wreak havoc on your home and cause serious water damage. For this reason, gutter and downspout cleaning should be a top priority. It’s recommended that you clear out your gutter system at least twice a year to keep it in top condition and prevent clogs from developing. Here is some further insight into why this is an essential home maintenance task to stay on top of. 

The Significance of Downspout Cleaning 

How Downspouts Work 

Downspouts are designed to transport all the water that collects in the gutters down the side of the house and away from its foundation. However, if a downspout gets clogged, it will no longer perform its job correctly. As a result, rainwater will back up and eventually cause the gutters to overflow. While it’s fairly simple to detect and remove clogs from the gutters, a blockage within the downspout is more difficult to find. As such, have a downspout cleaning done every time the gutters are cleared. 

What Happens When Downspouts Aren’t Maintained 

Failing to clean your downspout can lead to major problems with your home. This includes: 

• Foundation damage: a clog can cause water to pour over the sides of the gutter and pool around the foundation. Ultimately, this can damage the foundation, causing cracks and mold growth to develop. 
• Wood rot: the boards that support the gutter system are made of wood. If the gutters continually fill up with water, the boards will start to rot. 
• Ruined landscaping: when rainwater spills over the sides of gutters, it often lands on the gardens, shrubs, and flower beds below. Too much water can cause this foliage considerable harm, killing some plants and attracting pests with the excess moisture.
• Ice dams: since a clogged downspout prevents water from draining, it increases the chance of an ice dam forming in colder weather. Ice dams can form on gutters, which will cause water to pool and seep into the home as it melts. 

With spring in full swing, now is the time to schedule your gutter and downspout cleaning with a reliable professional. There is no one more qualified to take care of your home than Window Butler of Cincinnati, OH. They have earned a solid reputation for providing residents with exceptional property maintenance. They offer a full range of services, including pressure washing, gutter and window cleaning, and sealing and staining that will help you avoid costly damages to your exterior. Call (513) 375-5531 to request a job estimate, or visit them online for more information on their services.