Your gutter system is an integral part of your home. It collects the water from your roof and leads it away from the foundation of your home. Without your gutter system, the rainwater running off your roof may dampen your walls and penetrate your home through the smallest cracks or through your windows. 

However, because of its design, the gutter will not only catch water, but it can accumulate leaves, twigs, and other debris. If there is too much debris collected in the gutter, rainwater will not be able to flow smoothly and this is where trouble starts to happen. To prevent this, it is also crucial to keep the gutter system clean and maintained regularly.

When is the best time to clean your gutter?

It is suggested that you clean your gutter twice a year —- during spring and autumn. However, if your home is located in a place where there are plenty of trees, then cleaning your gutter system more often is highly suggested. It is also recommended to clean your gutter before and after a big storm. Cleaning your gutter before a storm will ensure that rainwater can flow without any interruption. After the big storm, you can either start cleaning the gutter or wait for it to get dry so it would be easier for you to remove the debris. 

Why is it important to maintain a clean gutter system?

Checking your gutter occasionally for debris that can clog it is not a bad idea. Regular gutter cleaning offers you the following benefits:

• Prevents water damage

The main purpose of your gutter system is to direct water away from your home and property. A clogged gutter will not only create problems on your roof but also to the whole foundation of your home. It will cause rainwater to overflow towards your home’s foundation. If this happens every time a heavy rain occurs, it can weaken your home’s structure resulting in damage. With proper maintenance and regular cleaning, you can ensure that your gutter system can perform its job efficiently. Apart from that, twigs, dry leaves, and other debris accumulating on your gutter system make it a perfect nesting place for critters and pests. They carry diseases and can put your family’s health at risk.

• Prevents flooding

Another problem caused by clogged gutters is flooding. When there is debris blocking the gutter, water can build up during heavy rain and may spill over the sides. Spilt water will find its way to low lying areas of your home. It can cause flooding in your basement and ruin the home’s foundation. 

• Prevents costly repairs

Clogged gutters bring about a multitude of problems in your property. The overflowing water can soak your fascia boards resulting in mold and damage. The debris that has accumulated in the gutter can also damage your roof when they start to decompose. The overflowing water can soak your fascia boards resulting in damage. Add up the damage it can cause to your foundation and nearby structures. All of these problems need to be repaired to prevent further damage. However, if the gutter is well maintained and properly cleaned, there will be no costly repairs that you need to deal with.