Home Gutter Care & Maintenance Guide

Gutters may not be the most attractive part of home maintenance, but they shouldn't be overlooked. The aim of gutters and downspouts is to divert runoff away from the home. Water damage can cause structure failure, and in colder climates, the freezing and thawing of water built up around the foundation can cause cracks. Fortunately, proper maintenance of gutters and downspouts will divert water away from the home and foundation.

Inspect

Look for corrosion (rust), holes, leaks, and debris that clogs and blocks the drainage. Also check for missing or bent gutter hangers, and mark sections that need to be addressed to find them easily later.

Clean Regularly

Whether there are other signs of damage, it is important to clear out debris regularly to help prevent buildup. You can use a dedicated gutter scoop to clear out impacted debris, or get a sturdy stick to push it out so rainwater can flow freely. If you're using your hands, make sure to wear heavy-duty gloves in case there are thorns, nails, or sharp sticks that could hurt them.

If there still seems to be a clog even with clean gutters, you may need to check the downspout. The part where the gutter connects to the downspout is a common place for debris build-up. You can remove the elbow to inspect the downspout, but if you are still unable to see the clog, you can push a water hose down the spout at full blast to break up the clog.

Seal Leaks and Replace Damaged Sections

If you find small holes or leaks, it's possible to fix them with a gutter patching kit or silicone caulk. Clean the area thoroughly and seal it with the caulk. For gutters that are sagging or loose, it may be necessary to replace the gutter spikes with gutter screws for better support.

Divert Water Runoff

The purpose of gutters and downspouts is to direct rainwater away from your Ignacio home. Even if the water is safely diverted from the roof and to the ground, water buildup right by the house can damage the foundation or damage crawl spaces and basements with moisture build-up. Make sure that water is not only being diverted from the roof, but away from the house with irrigation pipes or downspouts.

After cleaning and repairing the gutters, consider getting gutter screens or a guard to help prevent buildup and protect your investment in your gutters.