Rain gutters collect water from the roof and channel it away from the house to prevent flooding, soil erosion, foundation damage, and other issues. Typically, with the right care, they should last at least 20 years. To help you get the most out of them, review the maintenance guidelines below.

Do: 

Clean the troughs.

Keep the gutters free of leaves, twigs, and debris. Clogs prevent the system from directing water away from the house. Instead, moisture will overflow and slosh over the sides.

Also, the weight of collected rain puts undue wear and tear on the supports. At least once a month, inspect the channels for built-up debris. During the rainy seasons, check that water is flowing freely after harsh storms.

Inspect connections.

Once or twice a year, walk around the house and inspect the troughs, downspouts, and mounting hardware. Tighten any loose screws, realign and caulk any areas where adjacent troughs have separated, and look out for rust, holes, and other issues. 

To circumvent further problems from arising, call for professional repairs when necessary. An expert can also identify when it's time to replace the materials.

Don't:

Take risks.

Don't put yourself at risk when cleaning or inspecting the gutters. For instance, don't stand on a rickety trash bin or try to do the job alone. 

Mount a sturdy ladder and have a friend support the base until you're back on the ground. Don't stretch out to clean or repair areas you can't easily reach. Instead, climb down and move the ladder. 

Clear away ice with a shovel.

Don't use a snow shovel to knock away icicles unless they're less than an inch in diameter. A poorly aimed shovel could dent the trough or scrape away house paint.

Also, the impact of a shovel hitting a large, stubborn chunk of ice could twist, bend, or otherwise damage the gutter. Instead, apply chemical ice melt or install an electric roof heating cable to prevent ice dams from forming. 

If you need gutter repair or installation services, contact the experts at BradCo Companies, the premier residential roofing contractor in La Vista, NE. This locally owned business has served the Greater Omaha area since 2001. They're fully licensed, bonded, and insured and are renowned around the region for their exceptional work and high-quality products. Learn what clients have to say about them on their website, or call (402) 334-2758 to schedule gutter installation or repairs.