Gutters help water flow away from your roof and foundation, but they become far less effective and can sustain damage, such as sagging and cracking, if leaves and debris are allowed to build up in the gutter. However, there are some steps you can take to prevent gutter damage.
- Keep Trees and Foliage Trimmed. One of the best things you can do to prolong the life of your gutters and protect your home is to properly maintain and trim any trees on your property, particularly trees near your home with branches extending over your roofline. You should regularly trim back any overgrown branches and thin trees that overhang your roof and gutters so that leaves fall to the ground instead of collecting on your roof or in your gutters.
- Add Leaf Guards to Your Gutters. In addition to keeping trees trimmed back away from your roof and gutters, another great option to prevent gutter damage is to add leaf guards. Leaf guards help keep leaves from falling or blowing into your gutters, minimizing the likelihood of clogs.
- Do Regular Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance. Regular gutter cleaning to remove leaves and debris is one of the best ways to prevent damage that clogs and trapped moisture can cause. Having your gutters professionally cleaned and maintained prevents damage and extends the life of your gutters.
At Empire Gutters, we know firsthand that an excess of leaves and debris in gutters is the leading cause of cracks, sags, and clogs. Call us today to discuss how leaf guards can prevent gutter damage.
