All houses with shingle roofing have gutters, or long drainage systems running along the roof. When properly maintained, this vital component protects your home from the rain. In doing so, the unit helps you avoid roof repairs. Here’s all you need to know about the function of the gutters and how to maintain them to prevent roofing damage.

What Do the Gutters Do?

While your roof shields your home from water damage, the gutters protect it from the same type of harm. They carry rainwater off your roof and down the downspout, preventing pooling over the structure.

Without the gutters, accumulated rainwater would seep into the porous material of the shingles, resulting in cracks and warping. This could lead to leaks in your attic, causing water damage on belongings and insulation. Over time, water damage typically leads to mold. With water spilling over the side of your home, erosion and foundation shifting could also occur.

How Should You Maintain Them?

Over time, your gutters will become filled with debris, including leaves and twigs. These clogs will prevent rainwater from flowing through, causing pooling over the roof.

To prevent this, clean the gutters in the spring and in the fall. You should also inspect them for damage like loose connections or cracks once a month, since these issues could affect their efficiency. If you spot gutter problems, fix these before they affect your roofing. 

Maintaining your gutters will save you money on roof repairs in the long run. If you’re looking for assistance with roof maintenance, look no further than My Roofing Co in Kaneohe, HI. They have been providing high-quality roofing services to residents of Oahu for over 35 years. Rest assured, they will go out of their way to ensure the job is done right. Learn more about their repair work online or call (808) 352-7272 to schedule an appointment.