Gutters channel water from the roof into downspouts, protecting the foundation of the home from water intrusion. Homeowners should inspect the channels throughout the year for various problems, especially in the notoriously rainy springtime. Here are some tips to get your gutter system in shape for the season.

How to Take Care of Residential Gutters

1. Clear Out Debris and Leaves

Critters and insects enjoy living in clogged gutters in the spring. If left unchecked, they can enter the house through nearby eave vents and holes. Most importantly, however, clogs can cause water to overflow, run down the siding, and pool around the foundation. The overflowing water can also seep beneath the shingles on the roof, resulting in structural damage.

Remove leaves, branches, birds' nests, and other debris from the gutter using a scoop or garden trowel. Then, use a yard hose or power washer to remove any remaining material.

2. Unclog Downspout

After cleaning the gutters, inspect the system on a sunny day to see if there is any damage to the downspout. To begin, spray water down the drain and see how well it flows. If the water is coming down slowly, the downspout may be obstructed. To clear it, use a plumber's snake or a drain auger from the ground level to avoid compressing the leaves and branches even more.

If clogs occur frequently, try installing leaf guards on the channels to prevent blockages. However, if you have a large tree near the house that drops leaves into the gutters yearly, invest in tree trimming to minimize the problem in the first place. 

3. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Consistent inspections for the above issues, as well as rust or sagging, help prevent further stress on your downpipes, resulting in less water overflow. Request a gutter checkup at least twice a year for the best results. Try scheduling one in springtime or early summer, as these seasons require less maintenance. However, if you have trees in the yard, plan quarterly maintenance.

If you require gutter repairs and maintenance, turn to Blu Sky Roofing in Worthington, OH. With over 50 years of combined experience, this team of reliable contractors has provided excellent siding and roof installation throughout Franklin County. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (614) 349-8582 to request a free estimate.