4 Crucial Gutter Maintenance and Repair Tips

Keeping your gutters in good condition should be one of your top home maintenance priorities. In addition, properly maintained gutters ensure that your home remains safe during heavy rainfalls and storms and prevent secondary issues such as pests and mold.

While hiring a gutter installation company or contractor is always the best option for major repairs, you can take on the minor fixes yourself. Here are four crucial gutter maintenance and repair tips that can help keep your gutter in the best condition throughout the year.

Photo credit: Pixabay

Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary safety tools and equipment and that you are confident you can do the job safely. You will need safety goggles, non-slip shoes, a mask, especially if you are allergic to dust or pollen, and don gloves to protect your hands. Ensure you also have a tall enough ladder and observe the NSC ladder safety tips. If the gutters are above the first story, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job for you to avoid unnecessary risks.

Regularly check your gutters for rust, leakage, or corroded joints. If you spot any leakage or tiny holes, consider applying a sealant and caulking the joints. However, if you notice rusting in your gutters, it indicates they have reached the end of their life expectancy, and it might be the time for a replacement.

Keeping your gutters clean helps increase their lifespan while helping them function properly. Leaves and debris over your roof can build up into a huge pile over time and clog or block your gutter system. This may lead to overflows and water damage.

Plan to clean your gutters at least twice a year. Typically, it’s recommended to clean them before the winter months and then during the fall. If your property is located in an area with many trees, ensure you clean your gutters more often.

Holes or gaps in your gutters can result from improperly placed nails, rotting, or cracks from extreme weather conditions. Fortunately, patching a hole or a gap can be a simple DIY task if the rest of your gutter is still intact.

• Begin by cutting a piece of sheet metal that can perfectly fit over the hole
• Thoroughly smear roofing cement around the edges of the hole inside the gutter
• Place the sheet metal gently over the hole and squeeze it into roofing cement
• Cover the patch with more roofing cement and leave it to dry

Gutter maintenance and repair is not everyone’s favorite chore, but it’s a crucial part of keeping your gutters functional and boosting the look of your home’s exterior. Follow these simple tips to help you keep your gutter system clean and functional to keep more expensive repairs and replacements at bay for longer. If you have any questions or concerns regarding gutter maintenance, call a professional for help.

Published in: Home advice | Author: Yanita