Most construction professionals will agree that a good roof and a good foundation are the most important factors in safe, quality construction and the longevity of your home. Keeping your gutter system clean and in good repair will protect both of these integral components of your home, but it’s often overlooked. If you have water leaking into your living room, you’re likely quick to call a professional roofer; meanwhile, clogged or shoddy gutters may be compromising the structural integrity of your house, and they’re rarely given a second thought until you’re faced with costly repairs. Don’t wait until you need expensive Roofing Repairs in Downers Grove, IL; if the condition of your gutter system is questionable, have it looked at by a qualified roofing contractor.
Functional gutters are necessary for proper drainage. When water doesn’t drain as it should, it either pools on your roof or runs off and settles at the foundation. This is bad news either way. Rainwater that isn’t directed away from your home can cause damage to your eaves and soffits, as well as encourage the growth of mold. Although this is serious in itself, it could be the least of your worries; improper drainage can have an even bigger toll on the foundation of your home.
Water should always be diverted at least three feet away from your home. Run-off that’s allowed to gather at your foundation seeps into crawlspaces and basements, causing flooded areas, rotted floors and mold. Mold is not only difficult to get rid of, it can aggravate health problems. Perhaps the most dangerous and expensive risk of improper drainage is extensive damage to the foundation itself. Repairing a cracked foundation is a big job.
The problems caused by faulty gutters don’t end there; water splashing onto the exterior of your home can cause discoloration and damage. It can also erode the soil around your home, destroying any landscaping in its path. Clogged gutters and the damp environment they create are also prime breeding grounds for insects.
A lot of problems can be avoided by proper maintenance and repair of your gutters. Clean your gutters every three months. If you have a lot of overhanging branches, more frequent cleaning is likely necessary. Gutters should also be serviced by a professional once a year. EDI Exterior Designers Inc. offers gutter system design, repair and maintenance to keep water where it belongs: away from your home.
