How To Maintain Your Gutters And Downspouts

Your gutter system is what collects all of that rainwater and releases it away from your home. Gutters and downspouts are so important in preventing moisture build up in your home. For that reason, you want to make sure you are properly caring for them so that they last as long as possible and work efficiently. Here is how to properly maintain your gutters and downspouts.

Cleaning

The most important part of maintaining your gutters and downspouts is to make sure they are free of leaves, branches, and other debris that can cause it to get clogged. If your gutters get clogged, the water will flow over top of them and into your home. A general rule of thumb is to clean  your gutters and downspouts twice a year. The best times to do this are at the end of spring and the end of fall when all the leaves have fallen. If you live in a wooded area, you may want to clean them out more often. All you need to do is get a ladder, scoop out any debris you see, and use a hose to flush out the rest of the debris that you couldn’t get..

Dealing With Clogs

If your gutter does get clogged, it is a problem you want to address as soon as you come across it. If water gets into your home, it can cause mold growth and even foundation problems. You can tell if there’s a clog if you notice water building up at the start of the downspout. A plumber drain snake can be used to go through the downspout several times and break up whatever is causing the clog. Any areas where you notice pressure is likely where the clog is. You want to then run water through the spout to rid of the debris.

Holes

Holes are eventually going to develop in your gutters and downspouts because of the wear and tear. To locate holes, use a hose to flush water through the downspout and watch for any leaks. Pinholes are common, small holes caused by rust and corrosion. All you have to do is use roofing cement to seal these holes. For larger holes, you can use metal flashing to patch them up.

Contact All Aspects Waterproofing Today!

If you are ready to get a professional to waterproof your home’s basement, contact All Aspects Waterproofing, a Better Business Bureau A+ rated company with over 30 years of experience in the Washington, DC./Maryland/Virginia area. We have a great deal of experience in waterproofing, mold testing, and mold remediation, and we want to make you feel at home again. Contact us online or by calling 1-866-999-3110 or 301-766-4420.  To see what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Houzz.