To many professionals in the roofing industry, a roof is the most important component of a house. It ensures that your entire home is sturdy. It also protects your family from the elements.
Your gutters and downspouts are important features of your roof. A properly functioning gutter system ensures that water and ice don't undermine the performance of your roof.
Proper gutter and downspout maintenance is critical to ensuring that your roof remains leak-free. A well-maintained gutter system also helps you avoid home insurance claims.
Follow these easy maintenance tips to protect your gutters, downspouts and your roof.
Examine Your Gutters and Downspouts
The first step in maintaining your gutter system is eyeballing it to make sure it’s free of damage. It’s in your best interest to inspect your entire system for dents, cracks, and clogs.
Any damage to your system will increase the chances of water accumulating on your roof. Standing water can damage your shingles.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
After you have made sure your gutters and downspouts are damage-free, the next step is to clean them. By cleaning your gutters, you can remove any debris that could block your system. Additionally, a clean system improves the look of your home’s exterior.
Make Repairs as Necessary
Once you’ve cleaned your gutter system, you can fix any issues that might otherwise undermine your system. For instance, if you see a pipe with rust spots, you might consider replacing that section of the pipe. If you don’t, you could have a larger problem down the road.
Always consider hiring a professional to repair your gutters and downspouts. This is especially the case if you don't have experience mending your roof.
Protect Your Gutters with Screens
Finally, after inspecting, cleaning, and repairing, it’s time to protect your system. Screens prevent debris from blocking the flow of water. They are also easy to attach to your system.
That said, if you haven’t added gutter screens before, it’s best to hire a professional to do the work.
Blocked gutters and downspouts can lead to a home insurance claim. The best way to avoid a claim is to ensure that rainwater flows away from your home through proper gutter maintenance.
If you have questions about home insurance, give Heritage Insurance a call today. We can help you get the coverage you need. Call us at (800) 240-3654 for a free Virginia home insurance quote.