Fall is a wonderful time of year. The leaves begin to change colors, football is in full swing and you can get just about anything laced with pumpkin spice. However, all of these beautifully colored fall leaves will soon be falling down and clogging up your gutters. Clean gutters are essential to keeping your home or building dry during heavy rain and snow.

Gutters can become clogged when leaves and other debris become damp and get matted into the interior. Once the dense build-up becomes thick enough, it can clog the downspout, causing water to flow over the side of the gutter. Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your roof, siding and foundation.

To clean your gutters, place a ladder securely against your home near the downspout. Beginning at the downspout, remove leaves, twigs and other debris with a small trowel or scoop. It is also important to keep safety in mind while working on a ladder. If you are not comfortable doing this job on your own, consider hiring a professional.

While regular gutter maintenance increases the longevity of your gutters, keep an eye out for signs that they may need to be replaced. Cracks and splits can grow, allowing water to damage fascia boards, shingles and the foundation below. Paint damage or rust may indicate that water is continuously pooling. Standing water or mold may indicate that your gutters are clogged but could also mean there is a defect in your gutter system. If your gutters are sagging or pulling away form your home, this is a definite sign that its time for an upgrade.

If you’re ready to install new gutters, consider including gutter guards. A gutter guard is a piece that attaches to the top of your gutter and prevents leaves and other unwanted debris from entering. There are many different types of gutter guards to choose from, including mesh, screen and reverse curve guards. Save time and labor when it comes to maintenance and increase the longevity of your new gutters by preventing clogs and cracks.

If you are interested in pricing gutter guards or a new gutter system, contact us today for a free estimate.