August 6, 2024
Most homeowners create a checklist to get their homes ready for the summer. However, cleaning gutters rarely makes the cut.
We get it—gutters aren’t glamorous, and they’re not something you think about often. But they work hard to keep rainwater from wreaking havoc on your home.
Clogged gutters are a gateway to multiple pressing problems, such as leaks, stains, cracks in the foundation, and even mold growth. Regularly cleaning your gutters is a simple way to protect your home and avoid costly repairs.
So, when should you clean your gutters in the summer? And why is it essential to give your rain gutters in Carson City some extra TLC during this season?
Let’s find out.
Typically, it’s good practice to clean your gutters at least twice a year:
That said, you may need to step up your gutter cleaning game in the summer, depending on a few key factors.
If you have a lot of trees around your property, especially shedding varieties like cottonwood and willow, you’re likely to find more debris in your gutters. In such cases, it’s best to schedule additional cleanings to keep clogs at bay.
Reno is known for its sudden and heavy summer thunderstorms. The last thing you’d want is clogged gutters during an intense downpour. Blocked gutters cannot channel rainwater away effectively, causing it to seep into your home, foundation, or landscaping.
Even if you’ve already cleaned your gutters in the spring, the summer can bring a set of challenges that might require some extra attention. Here are a few signs it’s time to grab a ladder and get to work- or maybe bring in the professionals.
It doesn’t take long for new debris to accumulate in your gutters, especially if you have trees nearby. Take a quick glance at your gutter installation in Reno, NV. If you see leaves, twigs, or branches sticking out, call for a cleanup.
One of the best times to tell if your gutters are clogged is during a rainstorm. As soon as the weather calms down, step outside and inspect your gutters. If you see water spilling over the sides of your gutters instead of flowing smoothly through the downspouts, it’s a sure sign they’re blocked.
During the dry summer months, you might also notice standing water or erosion marks around your home’s foundation another indicator that your gutters aren’t draining properly.
Pay attention to the inside of your home as well. Water stains or leaks on your interior ceilings, especially near the edges of the walls, can be a sign of clogged or overflowing gutters.
Beyond being unsightly, water inside your walls can lead to extensive structural damage and promote mold growth in as little as 24 hours.
It takes more than just cleaning to prep your gutters for the summer; you’ll want to prevent issues before they start. We’ve compiled a few additional tips to help your seamless gutters in Reno function efficiently, no matter what the weather throws their way.
Make a habit of inspecting your gutters regularly during the summer. Once a month, look for any visible signs of debris, sagging sections, or signs of rust and corrosion.
Regular gutter inspections allow you to catch and address problems early- before they turn into expensive problems. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get outside and enjoy the summer weather!
By trimming back overhanging branches, you can significantly reduce the number of leaves and twigs that end up in your gutters. This simple step can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. Moreover, it also keeps stray branches from damaging your roof during a storm.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution to gutter maintenance, consider installing gutter guards. They’re designed to keep debris out while allowing water to flow through.
Gutter guards can be a bit of an investment upfront, but they pay off by reducing the frequency of gutter cleaning and prolonging the lifespan of your gutters. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to our Reno roofing company for advice.
Your downspouts are just as important as the gutters. Make sure they are clear of obstructions and properly positioned to direct water away from your home’s foundation. Additionally, check that they are securely attached and that the water flows out at least a few feet from the base of your house. You can also add extensions to ensure the water is effectively diverted.
Debris on your roof can eventually make their way into your gutters. If you’re comfortable working at heights, use a broom or blower to remove leaves, twigs, and other scraps from your roof. Be cautious while doing this to avoid damaging the shingles or other roofing materials.
Do not hesitate to hire expert roofers in Carson City, NV, in case you feel too uneasy or unsafe doing this yourself. Professional roofers have the tools and expertise to clean your roof thoroughly and with the utmost care.
Proactive gutter cleaning is key to averting water damage in the summer. We hope this post gave you all the tips you need to know to keep your gutters in great shape. A little effort now can save you from a lot of trouble later. And your home will definitely thank you!
Do you need gutters for your home? Mountain Vista Roof Systems is your trusted partner for seamless gutter installations in Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Fernley, Dayton, Minden, Fallon, and Virginia City.
Contact us today to keep your home safe from water damage all year round.
