Although gutters can easily blend in with the rest of your home’s exterior, don’t overlook this essential feature altogether. After all, if these drainage systems stop doing their job, rainwater would spill over onto your roof and siding. And over time, this water damage could promote roof leaks, wood rot, foundation wear, mold growth, and other moisture-related issues. Fortunately, the following gutter maintenance tips will key water runoff flowing as it should.  

4 Gutter Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Roofing & Siding

1. Clean Regularly

Removing debris—such as leaves and twigs—from your gutters is one of the most important steps to keeping them intact. If too much waste gathers, the channels can become clogged, allowing heavy rain to overflow onto the roof and siding. The organic matter may also attract pests.

To prevent these blockages, aim to clean out the gutters at least twice a year and before major storms. If you want to reduce the frequency of cleaning, install gutter guards so large debris won’t collect in the channels.

2. Clear Clogged Downspouts

When it rains, check to see if the water is exiting the downspout as it should. If the stream is weak or nonexistent, the spout may be clogged. In many cases, these blockages can be removed carefully by using a plumber’s snake from the top of the gutters.

3. Test the Flow & Fix Any Leaks

Once the debris has been removed, spray water through every section of the gutters. Follow the flow to make sure the water comes out of the downspouts. Identify any leaks you spot along the way and have them repaired.

If a loose joint is causing the problem, have the channels reconnected to form a reliable seal. Other small leaks can be repaired using a specialized sealant. However, if the opening is large or rusted, you will likely need to hire a roofer to replace the damaged gutter section.

4. Secure Loose Areas

Visually inspect your gutters from a distance throughout the year. If you see any areas sagging or pulling away from the roof, you may need a roofing contractor to replace the faulty section or resecure it.

When your gutters need to step up their game, Pinnacle Roofing & Siding is here to tackle all drainage system issues. Serving Lincoln, NE, homeowners, this experienced contractor has the skills and experience to install, repair, and replace gutters to promote the proper flow of rainwater. If water damage has compromised your home, this team can also provide affordable roof repairs and siding installation. Visit this friendly local roofer online to learn more about these services. Call (402) 560-0232 to schedule a free estimate.