Even in a dry climate like Southern California, rain gutters need to be regularly cleaned and maintained in order to function properly. Rain gutters can clog with debris such as leaves, twigs, and seeds. This can cause water to pool around the home when rain finally comes, leading to very costly water damage.
For most Southern Californians, rain gutters should be cleaned and inspected twice a year. For example, once in the summer and once in the fall. If your home is in an area with a lot of trees, you may consider increasing that number.
When gutters are functioning properly, they direct water away from the foundation of your home, keeping it safe from water damage. When gutters get clogged and stop functioning, costly water damage can ensue. This can include staining of the exterior building, damage to the walls, cracking of the home’s foundation, or flooding of the basement. This is why it’s necessary to ensure that your gutter system is well-maintained. Otherwise, you could be spending a large amount of time and and money fixing big problems that could have been easily avoided.
If you have any issues with the water flow of your gutters, your gutter system may need repair. Look for gaps, cracks, or sagging in the gutter system, as well as screws or nails on the ground. Also look for signs of rust or oxidization on metal gutters.
While it’s possible to clean the gutters yourself, it’s not recommended as the job can be dangerous. It’s generally not very expensive to have a reputable professional in your area do a full gutter inspection.
So don’t forget! Schedule a gutter cleaning at least twice a year, so that your gutters can do the job they were meant to do: protecting your home and helping you avoid costly home repairs.