Just like the roof or siding of a house, a working gutter system is an important component to your home's exterior. Gutters are put into place to collect and direct the flow of rain water away from a structure, which helps to protect against the possibilities of water damage or flooding. Usually made from plastic or aluminum, gutters are generally easy to upkeep and maintain, but homeowners should be aware of the condition of their gutters to ensure they last. According to Inspections Unlimited founder and professional inspector Dan Lubbers, damaged gutters are a common find during a home inspection. There are specific points an Inspections Unlimited professional will check to make sure a home's gutter system is working at it's full potential.
A gutter system's effectiveness begins with the quality of installation. Gutters are suppose to be installed at a slight slope that channels water towards the downspout, but many systems to not meet this basic requirement. The system should be attached firmly to the side of the structure, usually to the fascia, or the horizontal board between the top exterior wall and eaves of the home. It is also important to ensure that gutters are not cracked, leaking, or have come apart at the connecting seams. This is true for the downspout as well, which should be securely attached to the side of the home or building. The downspout should direct water away from the foundation of a structure.
Gutters can be damaged during storms or heavy wind. In colder climates, snow and ice can also tear gutters away from the sides of homes. Be sure to keep an eye on your home's gutter system during the winter months. Add a basic gutter inspection to your annual home maintenance routine or ask your Inspections Unlimited professional to take a special look at the condition of your home's gutter systems. Identifying problem areas early can help save you money later, since installing a new gutter system can cost hundreds of dollars.
While the proper construction and installment of gutters might be something most homeowners leave to the professionals, it is important to keep up on the maintenance of your home's gutter system. It's advised to clean gutters once or twice a year - whether you do it yourself or hire a professional. Keeping gutters clean and unclogged is the number one thing to remember. Clogged gutters are useless - it's as simple as that. It is easy for leaves, moss, twigs and other debris to be swept off the roof and into the gutters and downspouts. Blockages lead to overflowing, which leads to a variety of problems for you and your home.
An overflowing gutter can cause numerous problems for you and your home. Since clogged gutters are useless for channeling water off and away from your roof, leaks and moisture damage are more likely to occur. Overflowing water can be pushed upwards and underneath lower shingles on the roof, soaking through to the roof's sub-layers. Exterior walls are also at risk, since the gushing water can deteriorate siding and peel paint. If a clogged gutter is preventing the flow of water, it can add too much weight and pressure, causing the gutter to bend or even tear away from the structure. In the dryer months, standing water in a gutter can become stagnant - creating a prime breeding ground for insects such as mosquitoes.
Also be aware of bent or disconnected downspouts. Since this is the primary route for redirecting water away from your home, it's necessary for the downspout to function correctly. Just as it's important for gutters to stay free of debris, downspouts and drains also need to be maintained. A plugged drain can result in pooling water around the foundation or base of your home. Keep an eye out for fan-like patterns appearing in the dirt or mud around a downspout, which can a sign of clogging that can be visible even during dry months. Homeowners might also notice the pattern appearing on the side of the home near the downspout, the result of pooling water and splattering.
If properly maintained and cared for, a home's gutter system will serve as an important tool in protecting your home against the elements. Be diligent when it comes to repairs and cleaning. Just like any other part of your home - routine inspection can help stop problems before they start. During your next home inspection, an Inspections Unlimited inspector can help to diagnosis wear, tear, and damage to your home's gutter systems.
