Neglecting to care for your gutters can cause all kinds of problems in your home, including foundation damage, rotted wood, and insect infestations. It can also lead to leaks and the need for roof repair, as clogged gutters cannot properly drain water off your roof. To keep your gutters in good shape, follow these simple do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Have your gutters professionally cleaned twice a year.

Even if you’re good about maintaining your gutters on your own, it’s important to have them cleaned by a professional in the spring and autumn. A spring cleaning is essential because it removes the wet and sticky debris that builds during the winter, so your gutters are clear for the rainy season. Skipping this step can lead to leaks and may result in the need for roof repair. During the fall, your gutters need to be thoroughly cleared of things like sticks and fallen leaves. In addition to causing drainage issues, failure to clear this debris can trap water and create ice dams.

Install downspouts & gutter guards.

Both of these extend the life of your gutters and prevent the need for roof repair. When downspouts are attached to your gutters, they direct water away from your home at the ground level, which is particularly important if your house is on an incline. Gutter guards shield your gutters from large pieces of debris to help prevent clogging.

Don’t:

Ignore the need for repair.

If you notice an obvious problem such as a leak or clog, tend to it right away. Even if it doesn’t appear to be causing immediate damage, putting off repairs will only make the problem worse while also adding strain to the entire gutter system. The quicker you make a fix, the better off you’ll be.

Forget to schedule routine inspections.

It’s also essential to have a technician come in and inspect your gutters twice a year (this should be in addition to bi-annual cleanings). They’ll be able to spot pressing issues that you may not notice, such as loose fasteners or channel gaps. They’ll also be able to recommend an appropriate solution before the problem gets worse (and ends up costing a lot more money).


If poor gutter maintenance has caused problems in your home, the experts at Apollo General Contracting can help. For more than 40 years, these roofing contractors have provided clients in the Centerville, OH, area, with top-notch roof repair and home remodeling services, and even have an A+ Better Business Bureau® rating. Visit their website to learn more, and call (937) 321-6759 to request an estimate today.