With spring almost here, it’s time to say goodbye to winter and start planning your spring home maintenance checklist! One piece that homeowners often overlook are their gutters. Over the winter, your gutters are exposed to harsh conditions and can become damaged, which is why come spring it’s important to make sure they are up to the task of directing water flow away from your home. If you need a professional to help with your gutters in Cottage Grove, JTR Roofing is here to help! Whether you want a second opinion to determine if there is damage, new gutters or simply a few repairs – we can handle it all.
Why Inspect Your Gutters After Winter?
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your gutters in several ways. Accumulated snow and ice can add considerable weight, leading to sagging or even detachment from the roofline. Ice dams, formed by the melting and refreezing of snow on your roof, can force water under the shingles and into your home, causing extensive damage. Additionally, debris such as leaves, twigs and ice can clog your gutters, preventing proper drainage and increasing the risk of overflow and water damage to your property’s foundation, siding and landscaping.
How to Inspect Your Gutters
Inspecting your gutters for damage doesn’t require specialized skills or tools, but it does demand a keen eye and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you conduct a thorough inspection:
Safety First: Before you begin, ensure your safety by using a sturdy ladder and appropriate protective gear such as gloves and safety goggles.
Clear Debris: Start by removing any debris from the gutters and downspouts. Use a gutter scoop, garden trowel or your hands to clear leaves, twigs and other obstructions. Ensure that the downspouts are also free of debris and are directing water away from your home’s foundation.
Check for Sagging or Misalignment: Walk around your property and visually inspect the gutters for any sagging or misalignment. Look for areas where the gutters are pulling away from the roofline or where water may be pooling due to improper slope.
Inspect for Cracks and Holes: Carefully examine the seams, joints and connections of the gutters for any signs of cracks, holes or rust. These vulnerabilities can compromise the integrity of the gutter system and lead to leaks and water damage.
Look for Signs of Water Damage: Check the exterior walls, fascia boards and foundation for any signs of water damage, such as discoloration, peeling paint or mold growth. These could indicate that water is not properly draining away from your home due to gutter issues.
Test the Flow: With the gutters cleared of debris, run water through them using a hose to ensure proper flow and drainage. Observe how the water moves through the gutters and downspouts, checking for any blockages or leaks.
Inspect the Roof: Finally, inspect the roof for any damage or debris that may have accumulated during the winter months. Pay close attention to the area where the gutters are attached to the roof, as this is a common trouble spot.
Or, if you don’t feel comfortable inspecting your gutters – give us a call! We can have someone come out and take a look to determine if your gutters are ready for spring showers. For all of your gutter needs in Cottage Grove, choose JTR Roofing. Call us today at 651-777-7394 or contact us!
