Check Your Gutters

With that in mind take a look at these steps of cleaning out your gutters and downspout before fall.

Check your gutters.

If you find holes in any gutters caulk can be temporary fix until your gutters can be replaced schedule this soon. An overflowing gutter will dump water next to the foundation and create a water leak into the crawl space or basement. Check for standing or extremely slow moving water in the gutter. If water fails to flow toward the downspout efficiently the slope is inadequate.

In homes with concrete slabs the water next to the foundation can cause movement and. The first step to cleaning your gutters is setting up a sturdy ladder and using it to support you as you clear away leaves and debris with your hands or a small tool like a trowel. Check your gutters nextday inspect local home inspectors. Check for holes or missing pieces.

If there are any leaks you want to use gutter caulk or silicone to seal the leaks. Inspecting and cleaning your gutters and downspouts all that rain needs to go somewhere and gutters and downspouts direct it away from your house. While you are on the ladder it s a great time to check that the gutters are secure. You will want to closely examine the spikes or hangars that hold the gutters to your roof as those can become loose and may need to be resecured or even replaced.

You can purchase caulk that is made explicitly for house gutters at your local hardware store or lawn and garden center. Check the space between the gutter and the wall especially if you have noticed water running down the side of the wall during storms or if there are any visible stains on the side of your house. Confirm that the gutters are properly connected to the rafters and are stable. A leaking gutter is as harmful as a missing gutter.

If not this is the time to replace any pieces that are not secure.