The Importance of Gutter Maintenance

Your gutters are an integral component of your roofing system.  Their main role is to redirect water off of the roof and away from the rest of the building, protecting not only the roof but the walls, foundation, and even your landscaping.  When you don't maintain your gutter system and allow them to clog up with debris, you can end up with a major headache and an empty checkbook.  Here are just a few of the major problems that can occur when you ignore your gutters:

• ​Roof leaks:  When the water is not able to flow freely through the gutter system and out through the downspout, it can back up onto the roof, seeping under the shingles and causing the plywood foundation to rot.
• Water stains:  If the water is unable to drain through the downspouts because of leaves and other buildup, it will eventually leak over the edges of the gutters.  The water will run down the sides of the building, causing streaks and stains.
• Rotten wood:  When water is left to accumulate anywhere on the building structure, it will cause the wood to rot.  Not only is this an aesthetic problem, but it will cause structural damage that can be very costly.
• Sagging gutters:  The combination of leaves, sticks, and other debris with the water will add a lot of extra weight to the gutters.  This extra pressure can often cause the gutters to pull away from the roof and sometimes make them completely come off.
• Pests:  Areas with moisture and debris are a breeding ground for various types of pests and rodents, including ants, termites, and mosquitoes.  The pests will eventually make their way inside the building structure, especially if the structure is damaged from the clogged gutters.
• Mold and mildew:  When water accumulates for periods of time, mold and mildew will grow, spreading into other parts of your home or business.  It is difficult to remove and can cause health problems.

While cleaning your gutters is not an enjoyable task, it is definitely a necessity if you want to prevent damage to your home or business.  There is also an option to install leaf and debris guards over your gutters that will greatly reduce the amount of gutter maintenance you need to do.  The guards are designed to allow water to flow through but to block out the majority of leaves, sticks, and other debris.  If you decide to go with this option, be sure to consult with a qualified roofing contractor to ensure the gutter guards are not only good quality but installed properly.  Many people think they should hire a company that solely performs work on gutters, but in reality, it is best to work with a company that knows the ins and outs of the complete roofing system.  

At Bill White Roofing and Specialty, we offer gutter services including repairs, new installations, and gutter guards.  Give us a call at (205) 942-8374 or fill out our contact form here.