There are certain components on a given home that are directly linked with one another in terms of practical operations, and a great example here is your roof and your rain gutter system. These two components work in symbiotic ways, and there are many situations where issues with one could lead to issues with the other — such as a buildup of any kind within your gutters that blocks the proper flow of water.
At Whitaker Roofing, we’re happy to provide our clients with a wide range of roofing services, from roof inspections and checkups to roof repairs and even new installations — and we also help with related component needs like these. The fall period we’re in is one where a bit of attention to your gutters, including a basic cleaning, can go a long way. Here’s a primer on the value in cleaning and maintaining your gutters this fall.
Removing New Leaf Buildups
Fall is the primary season where leaves begin to fall off of trees and enter your gutters. It’s also a season where rain is more common, meaning that these leaves have the potential to cause real blockages that in turn divert water away from your roof instead of allowing it to flow off as normal. A fall gutter cleaning can remove any new leaf buildup before it gets too out of control and begins to cause problems. For instance, if water diverts away from your roof and towards your home’s foundation, it could cause serious cracking or other damage over time.
Cleaning Out Existing Debris
In addition to removing new leaf buildup, fall gutter cleaning can also clear out any existing debris that might have gotten stuck in there over the last few months. This is important because that debris can still cause issues with proper water flow, and it might even lead to more leaves getting stuck as time goes on. A good gutter cleaning will remove all of this existing debris so that your gutters are clear and ready for fall weather.
Pest Prevention
Another key value in fall gutter cleaning is that it can help to prevent pests from taking up residence. Pests like mice and rats are always looking for a warm, dry place to nest during the colder months of the year, and your gutters could fit that bill if they’re full of leaves and other debris. A good gutter cleaning will make sure that your gutters are free of any potential pest homes, and it will also help to keep pests away from your roof in general.
Spotting Early Damage
Finally, one last reason to consider a fall gutter cleaning is that it provides a good opportunity to spot any early damage that might have developed in your gutters. Things like leaks, cracks and other forms of wear and tear can all be spotted more easily when the gutters are clean, allowing you to make necessary repairs before they cause any real issues.
If you’re due for a gutter cleaning this fall, or if you’ve been putting it off and think you might need a bit of help getting your gutters back in good shape, Whitaker Roofing is here to help. Contact us to learn about this or any of our roofing and related services!