No one likes to look at a roof covered in leaves and gutters that have all sorts of debris hanging off the sides. However, cosmetic appeal isn’t all you need to worry about as a homeowner and unfortunately, unless you understand the importance of cleaning and maintaining gutters, you could be leaving yourself open to some very serious trouble down the road. Those gutters are there for a reason which is why it is in your best interest to understand their purpose and then do everything in your power to keep them cleaned and maintained. Here is some information that could change the way you look at your gutter system from here on out.
The Purpose of Gutters and Downspouts
Most people know that gutters are there to help keep rainwater draining off the roof and away from the house. However, the reason why this is important is where many new homeowners are at a loss. Yes, those gutters can help keep rain draining off roofs so that they don’t come caving in on you (especially in cases of flat roofing structures!) but also gutters and downspouts keep rain from infiltrating the foundation of your home.
Not only will that moisture be the ultimate cause of mold and mildew but can, and often will, rot the timbers within the frame. Even poured concrete structures are likely to have wooden frames so be aware of just how important it is to clean and maintain your gutter system.
Roofing Damage Caused by Gutter Systems in Disrepair
Anyone who has ever had to replace a roof on their home knows that the tiles/shingles on the roof are just one part of the entire roofing system. Along with the roof itself, gutters, soffits and fascias form the entire system. When gutters are clogged to the point where water doesn’t run off to the downspouts, it will certainly pool at those points on the roof. Some areas of the country get rain often enough and in great enough amounts to worry about this type of damage. If you are uncertain about whether or not clogged drains and pooling water have damaged your roof, a thorough inspection by a professional licensed Sioux Falls roofing contractor would be the way to know for sure.
Damaged Roofing Systems Impact Selling a Structure
Since gutters, soffits and fascias are actually part of the entire roofing structure, it is important to understand that a roof in disrepair will often disqualify a home from being sold. Many (if not all!) states require certain types of properties being listed on the MLS to have undergone an inspection of the roof and structural integrity of the building. For sure lenders will refuse mortgages on homes with severe, unfixed damage to the roof or part of the roofing structure. If you hope to finance your home, make absolutely certain all repairs have been made and are certified by the roofing contractor.
Whether looking to sell your home or simply to ensure that you protect the structural integrity of the foundation and roofing system, regularly inspect, clean and maintain broken gutters and downspouts. Anyone who has ever had to make costly repairs knows the importance of cleaning and maintaining gutters, but for new homeowners, this is a lesson better learned from advice than experience.
