Gutters protect the structure of your home by preventing water leakage. Keeping your gutters clean is an essential maintenance routine that helps ensure the longevity of your home. Without a clean gutter system, water can seep into the walls creating problems beyond just mold. Learn how to prevent needing gutter repair as well as the damage it can cause.

How to Prevent Gutter Damage

Damaged gutters can cause severe issues to the foundation of the home. The purpose of gutters is to funnel water off the roof and away from the structure, but if the gutters are malfunctioning, water can accumulate on the roof or around the home. Large puddles of water sitting idly near the foundation can cause cracks and the home could collapse. Even if the structure doesn’t fall, unwanted mold growth can occur. Roof issues can also arise if the gutters are not functioning properly. Damage to the roof can cause the shingles or wood underneath to lose its strength. If you live in a cold climate, ice dams can form on top of your gutters causing water to seep into your home.

Signs You Need Gutter Repair or Replacement

Running a hose through the gutter system is a simple way to identify potential leaks. Small leaks can be easily repaired with caulk, but large issues should be handled by a professional. Contact a gutter repair specialist If you notice any small cracks in your gutter system. Over time these small cracks grow, especially in colder climates. When ice forms inside of these smaller cracks, they can expand causing a larger split to develop. Large cracks require immediate professional attention. Paint may also begin to peel, indicating that moisture is trapped inside the gutter. If you notice an orange color, rust, sagging or pulling away from the home these are all signs that your gutters need to be replaced.

How to Select and Preserve New Gutters

If you need to replace your gutters, make your selection based on affordability, durability, and color. Aluminum is the most popular option, but you can choose from steel, copper, or wood. Gutter maintenance requires homeowners to scoop out the fallen leaves and debris to create a path for water flow. Use a water hose to flush the gutters out to ensure the water is properly being filtered. Gutter guards offer a nice finish and prevent gutters from becoming clogged and overflowing.

Proper gutter maintenance can protect your roof, increasing the value and safety of your home. As a licensed, bonded, and insured company, Countywide Roofing has been operating with quality and pride in Ohio’s Lorain County and the surrounding area for over 25 years. Receiving an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau, they hold true to their values. Whether you need gutter repair or masonry work, call 440-246-3328 or visit them online to view the full selection of their repair services.