Though the roof protects a home from the elements, the gutter system acts as an assistant of sorts to catch runoff from rain, as well as melting snow and ice, and carry it away from the home’s foundation. Should gutters and downspouts become clogged or damaged, a number of problems could follow. Having the home’s exterior drainage components regularly inspected by a Residential Gutter Repair Service in Greeley CO could be crucial in thwarting more extensive and expensive issues.
First off, gutters need to be cleaned at least once every six months to remove lingering leaves, pine needles and other debris. These elements tend to hold water and become increasingly heavy. Unless promptly removed, they could cause gutters to pull away from the home. In most cases, this means having to replace sections of the gutters as well as their mounting brackets; however, pieces of the fascia and siding could also be torn away, creating greater damage.
If this type of debris is left to its own devices for too long, clogs could form. When this happens, water cannot flow along the gutters and into the downspouts as it should. Having nowhere else to go, water could then back up under shingles and fascia boards, eventually seeping into the attic. Not only does this lead to structural decay, but it creates an ideal breeding ground for hazardous mold.
During winter months, water left standing in gutters from loose debris or clogs freezes repeatedly, forming ice dams. These have the potential to cause interior damage by melting during the day and making their way underneath shingles and siding, ultimately backing up into the attic. As the water refreezes, it expands, pushing fascia boards and other construction seams further apart than normal. This leaves more room for water to enter the home at any time of the year.
A Residential Gutter Repair Service in Greeley CO can clean the gutters at regular intervals, helping to prevent clogs in the first place. Should damage already be forming, these professionals are able to make necessary repairs or upgrades in the home’s drainage system to prevent it from spreading. Contact Total Remodel Contractor for an inspection of your home’s gutter system or request a quote for repairs.
