Brantford Repair Services: 4 Reasons Cleaning Gutters Is Important

Most homeowners are familiar with typical household maintenance, including lawn care and other exterior maintenance tasks. One of homeowners’ most dreaded exterior care tasks is gutter cleaning. While you do not have to perform gutter maintenance often — only twice per year — it can be a hassle, especially for those who might be physically challenged. 

Despite the minor inconvenience of gutter cleaning, it is essential to home ownership. Ignoring your gutters will inevitably lead to blockage and house damage. While you may not think about it too often, gutter cleaning is a necessary part of home care that can save you thousands of dollars in potential damages. 

1. Prevents Wildlife and Pest Infestations

Gutters naturally collect dirt and debris that runs off your roof during storms and other weather incidents throughout the year. If you do not remove the debris from the gutters, it becomes promising nesting material for pests and wildlife. Additionally, as insects explore the gutters, birds and other creatures hunt and eat.  

All the activity in the gutters naturally draws attention to your roof and home as potential nesting sites. Animals want to be near a food source. Squirrels, birds, raccoons, etc. Will find any weaknesses around your attic for entry. Before you know it, clogged gutters will be the least of your concerns. 

2. Prevents Damage to Gutters

As any handyman in Brantford can explain, unclean gutters eventually result in failed or damaged gutter systems. The dirt and muck that fills the gutter will eventually clog the downspouts. Clogs will result in expedited wear, causing rust, blowouts, and cracks. The weight of the debris and inspecting wildlife will inevitably cause downspouts to bend and pull away from the roofline. 

Gutters are designed to transport water from the roof to the ground. The systems are not intended to hold debris or water for long periods. If you want to make the most of your system, you need to ensure the system gets cleaned a minimum of twice per year. 

3. Ensures Proper Functionality

Gutters protect the house by providing an intentional route for water to escape the structure; rainfall and snowmelt run off the roof into the gutters and down the downspouts, exiting several feet away from the foundation. The proper flow of water is only possible in a clean gutter system.  

Debris and muck clog the system, making proper flow impossible. Water will still run off the roof and into the gutters, but dirt and leaves prevent the water from draining through the downspouts. With nowhere to go, the water will back up and flood the gutters, running over the edges and down the sides of your home. 

4. Prevents Water Damage

Many homeowners do not think about the consequences of clogged gutter systems, but if left untreated, the clogged gutters will lead to water damage. Water can seep into the roofline, causing tiny leaks in attic spaces. It can also run down exterior walls finding access points in an old window and door seals or potentially under the siding. Finally, water can build up around the foundation of the house, resulting in cracks and other potentially significant issues. 

Cleaning gutters prevent water damage. While you may not want to perform the task yourself, you can hire gutter cleaning near me to do the job for you.  Your gutters should receive a thorough cleaning at least twice yearly to prevent any significant exterior issues. If you are no longer capable of cleaning the gutters or simply do not have the time or wish to do the job yourself, hire a professional. Contact an experienced handyman with Handyman Connection and get the job done right.