It is that time of year when you may start to notice… “Hm, there seems to be a lot of water pooling around my house” after a good rainstorm. If this situation sounds familiar, you may need to ‘look up’ to determine the culprit: your eavestroughs!
Eavestroughs, also known as gutters, are vital in protecting your home from water damage. Regular upkeep ensures that rainwater is effectively channelled away from your roof, walls, and foundation, preventing a variety of potential problems. Neglecting their maintenance, especially in Northern Ontario, can lead to a series of costly repairs that could have been easily avoided, including foundation damage, roof damage, water damage to walls and ceilings, and basement flooding.
Foundation Damage
Clogged eavestroughs can cause water to overflow and accumulate around your home's foundation. Over time, this can lead to cracks and weakening of the foundation, resulting in expensive structural repairs. Properly maintained eavestroughs direct water away from the foundation.
Roof Damage
Water that backs up in clogged eavestroughs can seep under your roof shingles, leading to rot and leaks. This can compromise the integrity of your roof and require extensive repairs or even a complete roof replacement. Regular cleaning and inspection of your eavestroughs help ensure that water flows freely and doesn’t cause roof damage.
Water Damage to Walls and Ceilings
Overflowing eavestroughs can cause water to run down the exterior walls of your home, potentially seeping into the interior. This can lead to water stains, peeling paint, and mold growth on and in your walls and ceilings. Addressing these issues often involves costly repairs and mold remediation.
Basement Flooding
If water isn't correctly directed away from your home, it can enter your basement, causing flooding and water damage. A flooded basement can ruin flooring, furniture, and other personal belongings, leading to significant financial loss and inconvenience.
Maintaining Your Eavestroughsin Northern Ontario
As you can see, neglecting your eavestroughs can have catastrophic and expensive consequences for your home. Here are seven helpful tips for maintaining your home’s eavestroughs:
Regular Cleaning: Clean your eavestroughs at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall, by removing leaves, twigs, and other debris that can cause blockages. Once the debris has been cleared, flush the eavestroughs with a hose to ensure proper water flow.
Inspect for Damage: While cleaning, inspect your eavestroughs for signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or sagging sections, and repair them.
Check Downspouts: Ensure that downspouts are clear and securely attached. To direct water away effectively, downspouts should extend at least six feet away from your home’s foundation.
Install Gutter Guards: Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the debris that enters your eavestroughs. Gutter guards can also significantly decrease the frequency of cleaning and help prevent blockages.
Trim Overhanging Branches: Trees with overhanging branches can drop leaves, twigs, and other debris into your eavestroughs, leading to blockages. Regularly trim branches that hang over your roof to minimize the debris in your eavestroughs.
Ensure Proper Slope: Eavestroughs should slightly slope towards the downspouts to ensure proper drainage. If you notice standing water in your eavestroughs, it could be a sign that the slope is incorrect. Adjust the hangers or brackets to achieve the correct angle and ensure efficient water flow.
Address Ice Dams: During the colder months, ice dams can form in your eavestroughs and prevent proper drainage. Ensure your attic is well-insulated to prevent heat from escaping and melting snow on the roof. You can install heating cables in your eavestroughs to melt ice and maintain water flow.
Regular eavestrough maintenance is essential for protecting your home from water damage and ensuring the longevity of your roofing system. Keeping your eavestroughs clean, inspecting for damage, and making necessary repairs can prevent costly issues and maintain a healthy home. For professional eavestrough services in Sudbury and Northern Ontario and more expert advice, visit Furoy Insulation.
Keep your home safe and dry with regular eavestrough maintenance!
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