Your home’s gutters are essential for protecting your house from water damage, and ensuring they are working properly is vital. Gutters collect rainwater from your roof and direct it away from your home’s foundation. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water damage, erosion, and even foundation problems. Inspecting your gutters once/twice a year to help prevent leaks and other issues would be best, especially before winter. Water and snow can accumulate and freeze in the gutters if blocked and cause snow and ice dams. Inspecting your gutters can help you identify any issues and prevent costly repairs. This article will discuss how to inspect your house gutters properly.
Step 1: Safety First
When cleaning out or inspecting your house gutter, prioritizing safety is essential to avoid accidents or injuries. Here are some safety measures that you should consider:
Use a sturdy and reliable ladder adequately secured to the ground that can support your weight.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp debris and possible infections.
Wear safety goggles to prevent debris from getting into your eyes.
Use a gutter scoop, garden trowel, or a trowel to remove the debris, and avoid using your hands.
Avoid leaning or reaching too far to one side, as it can cause the ladder to tip over.
Work with a partner who can steady the ladder and assist you when necessary.
Check the weather forecast before cleaning, and avoid working on the roof during inclement weather or high winds.
If the roof is too steep or high, or you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional gutter cleaning service.
By following these safety measures, you can ensure a safer and more efficient gutter cleaning process.
Spring Rain Gutters highly recommends homeowners seek professional assistance for inspection and cleaning to avoid accidents and damage to the gutter system.
Step 2: Check for Clogs
Clogged gutters are a common issue and can cause water to overflow, which may lead to damaging your roof and foundation. Begin by removing any visible debris by hand, including leaves, twigs, and other debris. You may need to trim trees to keep leaves from falling directly into the gutters. Then, use a garden trowel to scoop out any remaining debris, starting at the downspout and working toward the corners.
Step 3: Inspect For Damage
After clearing out all debris, it’s time to inspect your gutters for any indications of damage. Utilizing a garden hose can help you spot leaks from cracks or holes while also checking for rust spots that may result in leaks. Additionally, examine the seams and joints where the two gutters meet to confirm they are securely sealed. Should you come across any damage or leaking, take note of it and arrange for repairs promptly.
Step 4: Check the Downspouts
Check your downspouts to make sure they are not clogged. If they are, use a plumber’s snake or a hose to clear them. Ensure they have tightly connected to the gutter system and direct water away from your home’s foundation. If you notice any issues, you may need to replace the downspout or call a professional to repair it.
Step 5: Look for Signs of Water Damage
It is recommended to examine the outside of your residence, encompassing the foundation, for any indications of water damage. The presence of water stains, peeling paint, or mold growth may imply that your gutters are not functioning correctly. Additionally, watch for standing water and any leakages from the roof. Make a note of any damaged areas and attend to them promptly.