Deciduous trees provide pleasant shade throughout the year. However, in late fall they will threaten the functionality of your gutters. For the gutters to retain their functionality and stay clean – they need to be maintained regularly. But what are the signs that it’s time for autumn gutter cleaning? How do we know when we need professional help? Here are 5 signs that you need professional gutter cleaning.
Gutters And Their Role In Water Protection
During heavy rains and other weather conditions – large amounts of water flow from the roof surface into the gutters. They protect the house from moisture – because otherwise the facade would be damaged, and moisture would get into the interior of the house. Gutters are only a part of the drainage system – which also includes drainage pipes and tanks or stormwater drainage. To properly perform their function, gutters need to be placed with a slope towards the drainpipe. Also, gutters need to be cleaned at least once a year – especially if there is a deciduous tree nearby, whose leaves could clog the gutter drain pipes.
Gutter Cleaning
Cleaning gutters, especially at higher altitudes, is not an easy job. To avoid dangerous climbing on the roof – it is easier to place a protective net on the gutters. That will prevent it from becoming clogged with leaves and twigs caused by the wind. Clogging of the drainage system can also be prevented by filters that are placed at the junction of the drain pipe and the gutter – which also need to be cleaned regularly. It is best to leave the installation of the protective net to the experts. They will do this job when installing or repairing the roof structure or replacing the gutters. Setting up a safety net is basically easy – but professionals have the necessary tools and knowledge. You will also receive a warranty for the work performed – and all possible problems will be eliminated within the warranty period. You can also periodically clean the net yourself, with the help of a ladder and a broom.
When Is It Time To Clean The Gutters?
Even when there are no problems, gutters should be cleaned twice a year – or at least once a year. However, many of us avoid that – because it involves a lot of dirt, and we often think that cleaning the gutters is not so important. Big mistake! According to www.gutterspecialists.co.uk – clogged gutters can bring us a lot of problems. Therefore, if you notice any of these things, call a professional for help – before there is major damage to the house. Here are 5 signs that indicate you need to do professional gutter cleaning.
1. Wet Stains On The Walls
It often happens that we notice water leaking on the walls of our house – or stains that become more visible with the days. If something like this happens to you, you should first suspect a gutter – especially if the water stains are brown. This happens when the gutters are clogged with twigs and leaves. The new water coming into the gutter has nowhere to go, so it looks for the way on the other side – leaving a colored stain on your walls. If you have already noticed this, call a professional immediately – as this could be a red alarm light. This is primarily because by the time you can see the water on the wall – probably a lot of water has already leaked.
2. Do Moss And Plants Grow In Your Gutter?
This is not uncommon at all. Namely, many plants, such as moss, like the moisture inside the gutter – and such plants do not require much light. So when you notice new green shoots sticking out of your gutter – don’t be too surprised. However, these plants can cause problems. Sometimes there are so many of them that they lead to congestion. Also, sometimes at the joints of the gutters, they create cavities – from which water later leaks. Professionals can very easily remove these plants with the help of a vacuum and special tools – to secure the pipes and prevent water from clogging or leaking. Also, professionals can help you by installing a special leaf guard to make sure that leaves and other vegetation that may sprout do not enter your gutter.
3. Animals
Do you have the impression that something is living in your gutter? A mouse, a squirrel, or even a rat may have found their habitat right there. In that case, you definitely need the help of professionals to get rid of unwanted guests as soon as possible. Cleaning the roof is also helpful because unwanted guests can hide in the cracks they make there. The professional will do everything to clean the gutters in a quality way, but also the roof – and to install special guards that will keep the animals away from your gutters and roof.
4. Your Gutter Overflows
If you have seen that due to heavy rainfall your gutters emit an almost real waterfall – it could be a job for professionals. Namely, if during the melting of ice or due to snow and heavy rain, a large amount of water flows through the gutter – you should make a new supply or at least extend the old, existing ones. Otherwise, the joints may crack or the gutters may fall off the walls – under the weight of a large amount of water. Then the damage that occurs can be very costly.
5. Loose Joints On Gutter
If you see loose joints or protrusions on your gutters – it means it’s time for service. While loose joints may burst, a protrusion may indicate an existing blockage. The water passing through the gutter puts pressure on and eventually cracks. Therefore, call an expert and warn of an unpleasant situation.
The Bottom Line
Although most of us avoid cleaning gutters, sometimes we have to. If you do not know how to clean the gutter properly, do not risk doing even more damage. Invite professionals and get ready for the winter season.