Gutters direct rainwater and melted snow away from the foundation of your house, preventing dangerous erosion and basement flooding. They similarly protect your home’s siding from water, which could ruin the material and encourage mold growth. Lastly, they keep water off your roof, where it can harm shingles and lead to structural sagging. The following maintenance guide will help you protect your investment.

How to Care for Your Gutters

1. Clean Them Regularly

Leaves, branches, pine needles, seeds, and seed pods can collect in your gutters, creating blockages that trap water behind them. To avoid this, grab an old plastic spatula and scoop out the accumulation. A plumber’s snake can pull out clumps of wet leaves from the downspouts.

2. Inspect for Damage

Take note of any cracks in your gutters, which may be causing water to leak out onto your siding. These should be sealed—and soon before water forces the problem to expand. Also, check that accumulated debris and ice haven’t caused the gutters to become too heavy. This could result in the gutters sagging and pulling away from your home, damaging the area where they are attached to the roofline.

3. Shore Up Leaking End Caps

Remove any built-up oxidation around seams and end caps using a brush or coarse steel wool. Then rinse and allow the area to dry. Apply a bead of sealer by putting a glove on and applying it to your finger, then smoothing it along any cracks.

4. Add Gutter Covers

Prevent leaves and debris from getting into your gutters in the first place by installing gutter guards. These metal or plastic pieces fit over the channels, letting liquids, but not solids through. 

Serving central Ohio for over 50 years, Empire Windows of Delaware aims to enhance the curb appeal and functionality of your property. In addition to installing gutters, they also have a large selection of siding, replacement windows, and overhead and entry doors. Their Five Point Guarantee includes an estimate in 60 minutes or less, no pressure to make a decision, assurance that they’ll be on time for your estimate or that they will call if they are running late, their best price the first time, and recycling services for your old windows. Call (614) 766-1400 for your free estimate. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings.