Gutters are an important part of any property. They collect rainwater from the roof and channel it away. This will help you to prevent water damage. In fact, maintaining gutters is key to protecting your residential or commercial property.
Basic gutter maintenance tasks such as cleaning out leaves and debris can be DIY. However, there are times when you will need to get in touch with a professional. Let’s take a look at some signs where you will need professional help with gutters.
1. There Are Visible Holes or Leaks
If you climb a ladder and spot holes or separated seams in the gutters, it’s time to call a pro. Leaking gutters can spill water behind your gutters and cause fascia board rot or moisture intrusion into your home. A professional can inspect the gutters for damage, fix any problem areas, and rehang sections that have pulled loose from the house.
2. Water is Overflowing Your Gutters
Gutters are designed to catch roof runoff, drain it into downspouts, and redirect it away from your home. If you notice your gutters frequently overflowing when it rains or water pouring out the sides, your gutters are likely clogged with debris like leaves, twigs, or tennis balls. A pro has the right equipment to safely clean out your gutters. They can also make sure your gutters are correctly pitched to keep water flowing. Having them regularly cleaned can prevent blockages.
3. You Have Evidence of Pest Issues
If you see holes or tunnels in your gutters or downspouts, it’s possible bees, birds, mice, squirrels or other pests have gotten inside. A professional can safely remove nests or block points of entry. They can also install gutter screens to help keep pests out while letting water through. Addressing pest issues quickly keeps the critters from doing serious damage to your gutters or roof.
4. It Has Been Over a Year Since Your Gutters Were Serviced
Even if your gutters look fine, it’s smart to have them inspected and cleaned each year prior to fall leaf-dropping season. Heavy debris accumulation over time can cause gutters to sag, pull loose, or even collapse under the weight. An annual maintenance check by a pro prevents more expensive repairs down the road. They can confirm your gutters and downspouts are working optimally and not at risk of damage during winter storms.
5. Your Gutters Are Sagging
If you notice your gutters sagging in the middle or pulling away from the fascia board, it likely indicates a problem with the gutter hangers. Over time, the spikes securing your gutters can come loose or corrode, causing gutters to droop. The weight of pooled water and debris can also lead to sagging over the years. Sagging gutters are at major risk of dumping water alongside your home’s foundation rather than directing it properly into downspouts.
When to do DIY Gutter Maintenance
If your gutters only have light debris like leaves or needles, use a shop vacuum on a dry day or carefully clean them out by hand using a ladder stabilizer. Always practice ladder safety, wear slip-resistant shoes, and avoid overreaching.
Be cautious handling gutters yourself if your house is over two stories, the roof pitch is steep, or the gutters hang over concrete or pavers where an injury from a fall would be likely. The risk of repairs, medical bills, and lost wages from DIY injuries far outweigh paying for professional periodic service.
Anyone seeking a professional gutter cleaning team in Perth can connect with us at Complete Gutter Cleaning. We love to build long term relationships with all our clients and help them keep their gutters in perfect condition at any given time. Feel free to contact us and schedule your appointment today.