How to Keep Your Rain Gutters Flowing Freely: Causes of Clogging and Preventative Measures
One of the most bothersome problems homeowners deal with is overflowing gutters, whether it’s a gradual leak or unexpected downpour that results in the gutters filling up, overflow has the potential to damage a home’s exterior siding, foundation, and landscaping. Yet, with awareness of frequent triggers and easy preventative tactics, one can keep their rain gutters discharging smoothly throughout the seasons.
Accumulating debris is usually the primary culprit that clogs gutters and results in overflow. Falling leaves, pine needles, small branches – all sorts of debris collects in gutters if not cleaned out regularly. The good news is that debris is also the easiest problem to address – it merely requires climbing a ladder or using an extension tool to pull out debris blocking the downspout openings. Aiming to clear gutters at minimum twice per year, more often if surrounding trees are plentiful, can keep debris from building up and causing clogs. See, this website has all the info you need to learn about this amazing product.
Ice dams are another major source of overflow, especially in colder climates. When snow on a roof melts during the day and refreezes at night, it can form a wall of ice along the roof edge. This ice dam obstructs water from draining through gutters normally. Instead, water backs up under roofing shingles and leaks into the home. The best prevention involves ensuring warm air isn’t escaping and melting snow on the roof’s edge. Checking attic insulation and ventilation, as well as using heated roof rakes to melt ice dams from above, can circumvent this problem.
Slope and pitch are critical for proper drainage, yet many older homes have gutters installed incorrectly. Over time, gutters can sag or lose pitch so water doesn’t flow to downspouts properly. Using a level to check slope, and resetting any sections not angled at minimum 1/4 inch per foot toward the downspout, is important. Making sure downspouts extend several feet away from the foundation as well is key to preventing overflow. Just click here and check it out!
Clogs in the downspout itself can entrap water up high in the gutter. Checking for debris or partial clogs in downspout openings and the downspout tube, and clearing any obstructions, allows free-flowing drainage from gutters all the way to the ground. While inspecting, also examine downspouts for damage like dents or crushed areas that could slow water release. Replacing downspouts if needed maximizes flow.
By comprehending common triggers like debris, ice dams, improper slope, and downspout clogs, preventative steps can be taken to maintain clear-flowing gutters. With a little seasonal maintenance including debris removal and ice dam inspection, as well as confirming accurate installation, homeowners can stay dry even when rains are heavy. This website has all you need to learn more about this topic.