As fall begins, thoughts turn to apple cider, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin spice everything. And as you notice those beautiful autumn leaves wafting through the air, there is one more thing you should be thinking about – gutter cleaning.
Fall is an important time to pay attention to your gutters because the abundance of leaves and rain that come with this season can lead to some serious and expensive home maintenance issues.
Clean and clear gutters are important for avoiding flooding that can cause problems for your home and its foundation. As gutters become clogged, roof water overflows and collects around the foundation. Cracks develop and eventually result in leaks in your basement. Clogged gutters can also cause damage to the gutter itself, as well as moisture problems with roof sheathing and wood framing.
Clogged gutters can also lead to mold problems. When organic debris is tightly-packed in a damp stagnant environment like the inside of a clogged gutter, mold develops at an astounding rate. When gutter cleaning is overlooked, mold infects the area with a musty smell and mold colonies spread from the gutters to contaminate shingles and exposed wood.
Another reason why gutter cleaning is so important is that it helps to reduce pests around your home. Twigs, leaves, nests, and other debris that accumulates in your gutters create an attractive home for troublesome insects and rodents. As the debris collects and impairs proper drainage, warm water pockets develop, which invite insects to make nests and eggs. When temperatures begin to rise in the spring, spiders, yellow jackets, and other unwelcomed guests will descend, making your backyard activities much less fun.
Cleaning your gutters now removes the clutter and the pests, for a more enjoyable environment. Contact us today to schedule your gutter cleaning appointment!