For most, the thought of installing and cleaning gutters is not an exciting one. It is one of the most common tasks hired out to others among American homeowners. However, maintaining your home’s gutters can make a big difference in the comfort and longevity of your home.
Why Are Gutters So Important?
Because of their very nature of quietly serving homeowners in the background of daily life, most people don’t give their gutters much thought. However, gutters protect the home and residents inside from a host of potential problems. Some of these include:
1. Flooding of the home and basement
2. Damage to the overall home structure
3. Paint damage
4. Mold from overexposure to water
5. Damage to landscaping caused by excessive rain
6. Rotting and rusting of outdoor fixtures
7. Infestation of mosquitos and other pests that may flourish in standing water
If gutters are not functioning properly, these problems may occur regardless of their presence. Regular upkeep is important to prevent these and other minor disasters.
Upkeep Options
There are options for keeping your gutters clean and fully-functional, without having to resort to regular, manual clearing and cleaning. Special nets and screens can be applied to the gutter to prevent the settling of materials inside. This makes upkeep simpler than ever.
Some manufacturers have even developed shields that allow nothing more than water to collect in gutters, making maintenance an almost obsolete idea. Made from space-age materials and strong enough to withstand the trials of the outdoors, these pieces are pricier than traditional screens. However, the protection they offer prevents costly cleaning services and potential risks to the home and homeowner that these tasks may incur. It’s an investment in your home and family’s future, one that will keep your gutters full functional for years to come.
