Your gutters catch water from your roof and divert it away from your home. To keep them working properly, they need some basic maintenance to preserve their condition. Below are some tips for maintaining them.

How To Maintain Your Gutter System

1. Keep Them Clean

Clean out your gutters regularly, and make sure downspouts aren’t clogged. Debris will build up and block the flow, causing water to overflow against your roof and siding. This can lead to moisture damage.

Clogs during the winter can also cause ice to form against the roof, allowing moisture to seep into it. If your downspouts become clogged, they’ll get heavy with water and can pull the system away from the roofing. They can also overflow with dirty water that may pool around your home.

2. Watch for Damages

Periodically check your gutters for signs of damage and wear. Rust will weaken the system and increase the chance of leaks or breaks. Warping and bending in the system can also trap debris and water. This creates a breeding ground for pests and bacteria.

Loose or missing hardware should be replaced to keep gutters secure. If they pull away from your home, debris can become trapped between the roof and the system. Water may not flow through and instead drain alongside your house.

3. Check for Leaks

Leaks occur most often at elbows and joints. Check by pouring water in your gutters and watching for drips. If a leak isn’t addressed, water can run down your siding, causing mildew and stains.

Water may also collect near your foundation. From there, it can seep into cracks in your basement or soak into soft materials like supporting beams. This can cause high humidity and mildew in your home, as well as potential structural instability.

4. Upgrade When Necessary

If your system is constantly getting clogged or needs frequent cleanings, you may want to install a gutter guard. This device is installed over or in your system to keep out debris while allowing water in. Therefore, it prevents clogs and reduces maintenance.

You may also need downspout extensions. These allow you to guide water from downspouts and away from your home to prevent issues.

To keep your gutters in good shape, have the gutter and roofing contractor at Nine Square Roofing & Construction in Orlando, FL, inspect, replace, or repair them. Their licensed experts are prepared to perform reliable repairs if your roof becomes damaged. Learn more about their services online, and call (407) 906-6463 for a free estimate.