Gutters are a critical component of your roofing system. Without them, your property can suffer from problems that may involve costly roof repairs. As a homeowner, you should understand the potential issues that clogged or damaged gutters can cause and how to avoid them.

Damage Caused by Problematic Gutters

Gutters and downspouts are integral components in your home’s drainage system, directing water off the roof and away from your foundation. This stops water trouble and flooding, especially in your basement.

If gutters aren’t doing their job, water will pool, which means excess moisture on your roofing and around the base of your home. Water can weaken the materials of your house, cause rot within your walls, and require costly roof repairs. If you have any cracks or gaps in your walls or roof, moisture can get inside your living space, causing interior water damage.

Poor drainage will also negatively impact your yard. The excessive amount of water will oversaturate your greenery and lead to soil erosion. If water gets into your paths or driveways, it can lead to cracks and uneven ground, as well as disrupted soil.

Signs of Trouble

The easiest way to detect an issue with gutters is pooling water. Around your foundation, you may find muddy areas or leaks and water damage in your basement. If pooling is happening on your roof, you may discover water damage in your attic or crawlspace. When moisture gets inside, mold and mildew are soon to follow.

In severe cases, you may see areas of the roof sagging from the weight of water or from weak spots that are rotting and in danger of collapse. You may even notice sections of the gutters pulling away from the roof. This is caused by excessive weight or corroded hardware.

Maintenance Tips

Make sure nests, leaves, and other debris are removed from your gutters regularly. You may also consider adding gutter guards, which prevent large debris from getting lodged inside your drainage system. Another way to stop problems is to maintain your landscaping. Remove low hanging branches that can drop twigs and leaves onto your roofing.

For roof repairs and new roof installations, trust the team at Edge Roofing & Remodeling. Located in Austin, TX, these roofing contractors have been the family-owned and -operated company of choice for residents of Travis County since 1983. To schedule an appointment, call (512) 825-6987. Visit their website for more information.