Most homeowners only concentrate on exterior problems when faced with a leaky roof or seeping dampness.
One issue that slips through the cracks is existing gutters. Once a problem arises, it ends up being a costly lesson.
Poorly functioning gutters can have a knock-on effect. But if you follow our essential gutter maintenance tips, you won't have to bear the repercussions of gutter repair work.
The Crucial Role of Gutters
Rain gutters are not just aesthetically pleasing add-ons for your home. Their main role is to protect houses from water damage.
Their elongated design channels roof runoff away from the building's foundation, preserving structural integrity.
A maintained seamless gutter installation helps minimize the risk of exterior damage, especially during the rainy seasons.
For example, Greenville, South Carolina, experiences an average of 13.8 days of rain in July. That's 0.04 inches of rainfall in a single month. It's safe to assume that the months leading up to July are the busiest for Greenville gutter installers.
Damaged or clogged gutters can lead to major headaches. That's why keeping them in good condition not only protects your home but the surrounding landscape by directing water away from your property.
Just Add Water
Cleaning your gutters is a good place to start. All you'll need is a high-pressure hose to dislodge debris like leaves and twigs from the downspouts.
Don't rush through the process. Ensure there are no obstructions to prevent water from running through the system and down the pipes. Even gunk and smaller objects can cause havoc during a slight downpour.
Forbes Home suggests doing a proper clean twice a year - in spring and fall.
If you live in an area surrounded by many trees and bushes, it's best to increase cleaning to twice a week.
Install a Gutter Guard
One of the benefits of gutter guards is that they keep your gutters clean and protected from clogs, says gutter installation experts SureFlow Gutters.
Gutter guards and covers block debris from getting into gutters without obstructing the free flow of water.
There are several types of gutter guards available. While some can be installed DIY, Architectural Digest advises taking the professional installation route. Services often include gutter cleaning and sealing.
Below are the types of gutter guards best suited for residential homes.
Screen Gutter Guards
These can be metal or plastic perforated sheets that are placed on top of the gutter. The holes in the material block debris. But because they are large, smaller objects like pine needles and shingle grit often get through.
Also, if you live in a windy area, the chances of it blowing off are very possible. The lightweight material doesn't stand a chance against Mother Nature.
CBS News cautions that the plastic screens can warp over time, resulting in you having to replace them every few years. The one positive is that screen gutter guards are the cheapest and can average between $1 to $3.
Micro-Mesh Gutter Guards
Be prepared to pay $4 to $9 for micro-mesh gutter guards. Most gutter installers will recommend going with this option. The steel screens filter out the smallest debris, and they're corrosion-resistant.
Micro-mesh screens are best suited to places where trapped pollen and dirt collect. While there are DIY options, having a professional install them is advisable as most will include gutter cleaning and sealing in their service quote.
Be warned, the flow rate on micro-mesh gutter guards doesn't have a good track record. High-flow areas like roof valleys should be carefully considered.
Foam Gutter Guards
Also a low-cost option, foam gutter guards can cost between $2 and $3. The foam inserts are placed on top of the gutter and act as a filter.
Blocking medium to large debris, you should clean your gutters more than the required twice a year.
If you're on a budget, foam gutter guards will likely do the job. However, they're not a permanent solution to blocked gutters. In rainy climates such as Greenville, South Carolina, you should rather give them a miss.
Brush Gutter Guards
Brush gutter guards are large pipe cleaners inserted into the gutter's trough. The bristles trap debris. Herein lies the problem. With nowhere to go, the objects need to be physically removed.
Priced from $3 to $4.50, brush gutter guards are value for money when it comes to ease of installation. Harsh sunlight can affect longevity, making them brittle. If this is the case, you'll probably have to replace them every few years.
Whether you're in Greenville or New York, maintaining your gutters effectively helps increase the lifespan of your roof.
The last thing you want is a hefty gutter installation or gutter repair bill. Remember, keep your gutter system clean and clear of any obstructions.
