Have you cleared out your gutters since the summer? Leaves and other debris can gather throughout fall, and if gutters are blocked, they cannot properly transport water away from the foundation and siding of your home. When that happens, a leak is almost sure to happen. You should have your gutter system inspected before heavy winter snow takes its toll.
Inspection
Several areas of the roof should be checked in your gutter inspection, such as the following:
- Drip Edges/Eaves: This area is the metal flashing at the edge of the roof. It holds the fascia in place so water cannot enter into the walls and ceilings. Most gutter systems attach under or against the eaves. This area is often neglected but can cause a lot of problems if not in proper condition.
- Seams: Even if your gutters are seamless, they still have seams where the corners meet and connect with downspouts. Check these for water damage.
- Downspouts: When downspouts are clogged, they pose a problem when heavy rain or snow hit. Checking for clogs can be difficult if the spout has bends, so you may have to remove sections to check the spots that are hard to reach.
- Fasteners: Your gutter system may be either screwed or nailed to the fascia. Check this connection for any signs of damage, and replace any fasteners that are damaged to prevent costly repairs later.
Gutter Problems
You should also be looking at signs of trouble in other areas of the home, keeping an eye our for the following issues:
- Staining: If you discover any discolorations on siding, eaves or soffits it is a sure sign that the gutters are leaking and require further inspection. It may also be a sign of roof problems, so have them checked out immediately before more damage is caused.
- Sagging: Not only do sagging gutters look bad, but they can also cause water to prematurely splash from the gutters onto the walls and foundation. In addition, they could mean damage to the fasteners or wood behind the fascia.
- Mold: Water that remains sitting in gutters may create mold and mildew, and could get inside the home. If black mold forms, it could be a health risk.
- Damp Basement: If water has come into your home through basement walls, your gutter may not be properly draining water.
Don’t wait for leaks to cause irreparable damage on the outside and inside of your home – if you suspect you have a gutter problem, call Showalter right away!
Courtesy of Roofer 911
http://roofer911.com/va-gutter-installation-repair.htm
