One of your home’s most unsung heroes is about to be working overtime as Florida’s rainy season rolls in. Your gutters play an essential role in your home’s protection and safety, and as they face strong winds, heavy rains, and potentially even hail during this year’s storms, they are fighting off threats to your home’s structural integrity. Don’t wait until the storm clouds gather to make sure your gutters are ready to take them on! Check your gutters for any build-up or wear and tear today. Although overflowing gutters may be easy to overlook, they could be acting as a warning sign of serious and costly damage to come. The following are just a few issues that can be caused by neglecting your gutter maintenance, and if you notice any of these at your home it is time to call in your friendly neighborhood Noland’s Roofing to get your property looking its best and feeling its strongest again.
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Roof Damage
The most obvious issue posed by a dysfunctional gutter system is potential roof damage. When your gutters are unable to drain the water from your roof properly, the moisture can seep beneath your shingles. This can lead to rot or mold compromising the architectural structures or even leaks into the home itself. You want to keep the roof over your head clean and dry.
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Foundation Issues
Similar to roofs, your gutter system is also designed to redirect water away from your foundation. If your downspout is pointed too closely towards the home, or if it’s blocked by debris so that rain is overflowing and not being properly removed, the water could pool around your foundation which can lead to cracks and structural damage that will worsen over time.
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Pest Infestations
The last thing Florida needs is more breeding ground for our favorite pest – the mosquito – but unfortunately, that is exactly what your clogged gutters can become. When water is unable to drain from your gutters, it sits stagnant, and stagnant water attracts some destructive pests. From mosquitos to termites to rodents, these unwelcome guests may come for water, but they will most likely stay to cause some mischief.
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Exterior Damage
Depending on your home’s exterior, a non-working gutter system can not only affect its durability but also its appearance. Overflowing gutters can, of course, cause mold, but it can also contribute to wood rot, and visible water streaks, and ruin your home’s siding or soffits. (Not to mention that a cluttered gutter is definitely detracting from your curb appeal.) All of which are much more costly repairs.
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Landscape Erosion
Florida is known for its unique foliage, but even a master gardener cannot protect their plants from the effects of damaged gutters. When rainwater is displaced, especially with the heavy rains of hurricane season, it can wash away soil and all the essential nutrients that come with it. Your plants also run the risk of being over-watered, stunting any of their potential growth.
How Can You Protect Your Home?
There is no need to fear, protecting your gutters and home couldn’t be more simple. The most effective way to ensure your gutters are in working order and getting the job done is to clean them regularly, at least twice a year. Cleaning out your gutters removes any potential buildup that can lead to blockage, allowing rainwater to drain as it should and nipping the aforementioned issues right in the bud. If you are able and prefer to clean your gutters yourself, this is certainly a project that you can DIY if you have the necessary tools (ie. gloves, a ladder, and a hose) and are willing to put in the time and effort. As you clean, keep an eye open for any sagging, leaks, or heavy debris as they are a sign that it may be time to call in a professional for a repair. You can also check out our blog for more information on gutters and on prepping your home for hurricane season.
Don’t let your home fall victim to these gutter-related issues! Contact us today and get ahead of the storms with a gutter cleaning and inspection to make sure you’re ready to weather out the season.