While many parts of preparing for the winter involve indoor maintenance, such as duct cleaning or dryer vent cleaning, the exterior of your home also needs attention. In particular, gutter cleaning in the fall is another important part of winterizing your home. Clearing out your gutters protects your home against many fall and winter threats.
Keep Your Gutters in Good Condition
Clearing leaves and other debris out of your gutters may prevent the development of signs your gutters need an upgrade. Any leaves or debris in your gutters will get heavier with increased moisture. As that debris blocks your gutters, the weight will increase with added water or snow. Eventually, the extra weight forces the gutters to bend, break, or pull away from your home.
Prevent Water Damage
Gutters with excess debris will block the flow of water. As a result, any rainfall will lead to overflow coming from your gutters. As water pours over the rim of the gutters, it splashes the side of the home and pools around the foundation. This process leads to water damage in multiple parts of your home.
Get Rid of Pests
Throughout the summer, pests have probably built nests in your gutters. The gutter provides a sturdy base, and animals use the debris in your gutters for nesting. As the weather gets colder, pests hibernate in their nests. Getting rid of the debris in your gutters will also eliminate the presence of rodents, birds, and many types of insects.
Protect Your Roof
Even though you might keep up with consistent maintenance for your roof, a clogged gutter can still shorten its lifetime. As debris clogs your gutters, water backflow or the buildup of snow can damage your roof. Ice dams are also more likely to occur. Making sure your gutters are clean in the fall delivers long-lasting roof protection throughout the winter.
Get a Helping Hand This Fall
Chesapeake Property Services provides professional quality home maintenance that you can use to protect your home all year long. When you need gutter cleaning this fall, contact us online or call 410-661-4235.