Many homeowners take their gutters for granted, but few realize their importance until they stop working properly. Faulty gutters can only be the tip of the iceberg, leading to a much bigger problem if they go unattended. We’ll take a closer look at the impact of faulty gutters on your home over time and what you can do to prevent or fix these problems.
Water Damage
One of the most common problems that occur due to faulty gutters is water damage. When rainwater and melted snow water cannot flow freely, it can seep into the walls, ceilings, and floors, causing significant damage over time.
If left unchecked, water damage can result in weakened plaster or drywall, mold growth, and even structural damage. Installing new gutters is the best way to amend this problem or prevent it from ever happening in the first place.
Erosion & Foundation
Along with water damage comes erosion. Erosion is particularly problematic if a home is on a slope or hill. When water flows off the roof and down the gutters, the soil below becomes compromised, ruining your home’s foundation. Weakened ground from the excess water is a disaster for your home’s foundation. In some cases, foundation repairs can be costly and time consuming. To prevent these problems from occurring, you should have your gutters cleaned and maintained regularly.
Pest Invasions
Whenever your home isn’t in the best condition, it becomes an open invitation for pest infestations. Clogged gutters can be breeding grounds for critters like rodents or creepy crawlers like mosquitos. These pests can cause additional destruction to your home and even spread disease. You shouldn’t forget to clean the gutters unless you enjoy bug bites and rodents squatting in your attic.
Curb Appeal
The structural aspect of your home isn’t the only thing clogged gutters can destroy. Those stuffed gutters can also impact your home’s curb appeal. Rusted and damaged gutters can give off the appearance of an unkempt home. Simply replacing old gutters with new ones can help improve your home’s appearance and increase its value.
Understanding the impact of faulty gutters on your home over time should motivate you to stay on top of things rather than react to them. If your gutters need repairs or replacement, taking care of these problems as soon as possible is important to avoid more serious issues. So keep your gutters in good working order, and you’ll protect your home now and in the future.
A-Rite Construction and Roofing’s gutter cleaning services are all you need to ensure everything remains pristine inside and outside the home.
