Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1532637
UPKEEP Gutter Guide SPRING GUTTER MAINTENANCE TO-DOS. Gutters may be unassuming, but they play a big part in keeping your home in top shape. Used to channel rainwater away from the home and toward storm drains, gutters prevent structural damage and erosion from water buildup. To confirm your gutters are functioning appropriately, you must keep them clean and clear. Here's how to weather this essential spring project. Do a routine cleaning. Give your gutters a good cleaning before heavy spring showers and, ideally, every three months after. Using a ladder, scoop up any leaves and debris and dispose of them. Pro tip: shredded leaves and sticks make great mulch! Next, flush the system with a water hose, starting at the far end and working toward the downspout (the part of the gutter that runs down the side of your home). Give your downspouts attention. You should also check your downspouts during your cleaning. If water pools at the top of your gutters or barely trickles from the downspout, there's likely a clog. Try using pressure from a hose to dislodge and flush out what's stuck in the spout. If that doesn't work, clearing out the gunk with a drain snake may do the trick. Conduct a thorough once-over. Remember to scan your gutters for signs of damage, too. Fixing the small stuff now will save you a headache later and help you avoid costly repairs. Specifically, watch for: • Fractures and splits. Seal any cracks you find, no matter how tiny. These minor flaws can expand and result in major issues if left unchecked. • Water damage, stains, and mold. Standing water indicates a clog, while water damage on the backside of your gutter suggests leaks or overflow. Both can cause mold, which may require sections to be removed and replaced. • Paint damage. Gutter paint should be weather-resistant, but pooled water can lead to peeling. Touch up damaged areas and replace sections affected by rust. • Sagging. Your drainage system should never sag or move away from your home. If you see this, it may be time for a replacement. Consider gutter guards. Gutter guards take your drainage system to the next level. Available in a variety of styles, these protective devices sit on top of your gutters to keep out leaves, twigs, dirt, and debris. By allowing rainwater to flow freely, these handy barriers simplify cleaning and prevent pest infestations, rust, clogs, and water damage. If you don't have gutter guards, think about installing them now. Check the pitch. Although gutters may appear straight, their slight tilt, or pitch, is crucial for proper operation. The right pitch guarantees water flows away from your home, inhibiting it from draining too slowly, too quickly, or not at all. Gutters should be installed with a ¼ to ½ inch of slope per 10 feet of material. Use a level to verify the pitch is correct and consistent from top to bottom. Be sure to test it often, as slopes can shift over time. 14 COMING HOME MAGAZINE