Here’s Why New Homeowners Must Check Their Gutters

Most homeowners make the terrible mistake of not checking the gutters before buying a home. Improperly installed and unclean gutters can lead to water damage and other issues in any home. The importance of checking channels can be understood from the fact that in the United States, water damage is one of the top reasons mentioned in insurance claims. Thus, issues caused by unclean and improperly maintained gutters can lead to significant financial losses for homeowners and must, therefore, be avoided.

Gutter Issues Can Lead to Foundational Problems

Gutters are an integral part of a home’s construction. They maintain the integrity of a home’s foundation by getting rid of snow and rainwater properly. When gutters become clogged, the rain and snow drain down the side of a home, creating water pools around the house. These water pools are a significant threat to the foundation of a home as the pooled water seeps into windows and roof shingles, which, in turn, leads to damaged wood and mold issues. Further, the water can also damage the basement and cause mold infestation. These mold spores use the HVAC systems to travel into the house and can lead to respiratory issues for humans and pets. Thus, getting gutter-related issues fixed can lead to homeowners writing fat checks. Homeowners must, therefore, check gutters before buying a home.

Here Are Some Warning Signs

Gutters mostly become clogged due to twigs, leaves, and other types of debris. Here are a few things homeowners can check to detect clogged or improperly installed or maintained gutters.

• Before investing your money in a home, look for dirty and stained sides. Improperly maintained gutters cause the water to divert away from home, which in turn, leads to discernible signs on sides of a house.
• Look for leave stains. When the gutters are clogged, leaves, twigs, dirt, and other small particles cascade down the siding. These leaves and small particles leave stains, thereby giving new homes a haggard appearance. If the house you are planning to buy looks runs down, it’s best to hire an expert and get the health of gutters checked.
• Mold and wood rot are other signs of gutter-related issues.

What Should You Do in Case a Home Does Not Have a Gutter?

Here’s the good news: in case your preferred home does not have a gutter, do not worry. It is easy to install gutters and downspouts. All you have to do is hire an expert who knows their job. The professional you hire must have a clear idea of how the water should be diverted to avoid erosion. Further, they should also have an understanding of how gutters must be leveled.

We Recommend Hiring an Expert

If you are a homeowner, make sure you are getting your gutters cleaned at least twice each year. In the case your home is surrounded by trees, you may consider getting the gutters cleaned more frequently. While you can choose to clean your gutters on your own, we recommend hiring an expert and having them inspect your gutters at least once every year.

For More Information on Residential Gutter Cleaning in Metro Detroit

If you are ready to have a professional clean your gutters, start with D & H Window Cleaning. We’ve been in business in Metro Detroit since 1969, and are the experts in making your home shine from top to bottom. To schedule a free estimate on window cleaning service in the Metro Detroit or to learn more about our services contact us at (586) 726-2340.