Gutters are one of the simplest ways to protect your home from water damage, however even low-tech systems require maintenance and repair. Some gutter maintenance may be DIY, but others may require the knowledge and expertise of a professional.
Clogged Gutters: If your gutter does not have a guard it should be cleaned twice a year to prevent a buildup of leaves and debris that can make it hard for water to flow through. As a result, water can pool on your roof, increasing the chances of water damage. Rubble in the gutter and downspout also makes a nice nest for animals. If rainwater overflows at the top of the gutter instead of going through the downspout, if you notice vegetation growing out of the gutter or if the gutter is sagging from the weight of the rubble, you likely have a clog.
Cleaning a gutter is a straightforward process of climbing a ladder and manually removing the gunk. Take extra care when doing any work at a high height—especially if you need to bring sharp tools with you while climbing the ladder. If your gutter system is too high for you to feel comfortable climbing a ladder, our professionals offer gutter cleaning and would be happy to assist.
Leaky Gutters: If you notice water dripping from the seams of your gutter, that means the water is not being channeled away from your home and can end up pooling around your foundation and seeping into your basement. Leaks in the gutter can come from holes created by rust or from damage resulting from falling debris.
You can repair a small hole by covering it with sealant. For larger holes, you may need to get a gutter patch kit from your local hardware store or call a local professional for assistance.
Sagging Gutters: A gutter that is weighed down by leaves and debris may begin to sag or pull away from the fascia. Uncorrected, the gutter does not channel water into the downspout, and the water instead can flow straight down, and seep into the foundation. In addition, the unstable gutter could collapse unexpectedly, causing injury to anyone below.
You can fix a sagging gutter by adding a brace under the sag, and replacing any gutter hangers that are weak or damaged.
Many gutter problems can be fixed simply and inexpensively. But it’s good to know when the job requires a professional.
How do you know if it’s time to call a pro?
If you’re replacing your entire gutter system, you’ll most likely want an expert handling the installation to ensure it’s done correctly and efficiently so as not to damage the fascia or your roofing system.
If you have stubborn clogs in your downspouts, maybe even with animals nesting inside, it’s a good idea to call a pro.
Even when the repair is simple, climbing on ladders and being on the roof can be dangerous. If you do not have a safe ladder that is the appropriate size for the project, if you don’t feel comfortable climbing on your roof or being up high, or if the repair needs to be made when it may be slippery or icy, we recommend eliminating the chance of a fall by contacting a professional.
Need to talk gutters? Call Baker Roofing Company at 919-828-2975. Our trusted local professionals can help you determine the best way to install, repair or replace your gutters.
