The Importance of Gutter and Downspout Cleaning

Homeowners often think about covering their shrubs, plants and taking in their outdoor furniture just before the winter sets in. However, they often forget about the importance of cleaning their gutter and downspouts on a regular basis. This is something that should be done at least twice a year.

Gutters can become clogged over the year. Twigs, leaves and other deadfall from leaves can make their way into a gutter from a gust of wind, or even if the tree is in close proximity to the gutter. The gutter of a home can become cluttered with tree debris. When a gutter is not cleaned out properly, and precipitation occurs, the rain that is collected in the gutter has no clear passage to the downspout for drainage away from the home.

When this happens, a backup occurs. This backup of water can lead to an overflow of water. This overflow can damage the wood that the gutter is nailed into. In fact, overtime, the pressure of the buildup of water can cause a gutter to pull away from the trim of the house.

As a result, the wood can become rotted and look terrible. Not only that, a steady overflow of water can also damage the foundation of your home or even your landscape.

During the winter months, clogged gutters can turn into ice dams. The backed up water freezing causes this. Ice damming is a major cause of roof leaks. The ice formation will in time, get so thick that it will back up to the foundation of the roof.

When this occurs, the heat from the home will melt the ice dams that are closest to it and result in water leaks that will make their way into your home. When this particular action occurs repeatedly over several years, the outside trim of your home will have to be replaced.

Downspouts can also become clogged with debris. It is important that these be dismantled to remove any clogged deadfall. Hiring a company that specializes in gutter and downspout cleaning will save you some time and money.

They have the equipment to clean your gutter and downspout efficiently and know how to clean it without damaging your gutter. While they are cleaning your gutter, they will often use a hose to flush out the downspout.

Gutter and downspout cleaning should be done at least twice a year. May and October are usually the times of the year that this type of chore should be undertaking. Doing a thorough cleaning of your gutter and downspout will prevent damage to the foundation of your home and landscape.