Water damage is a threat to homes year-round. That's why homeowners should be on the lookout for signs of moisture accumulating in or around their home - even when it's not raining.
A simple way to protect your home from damage is to identify and resolve issues before they become serious. That way, you can save on costly repairs and make sure that your house is ready for a storm (if you live in an area with natural weather patterns).
One of the first things that you should check is your gutters. Gutters have a single job: to collect and redirect water away from your home’s foundation. When the system gets clogged, the rainwater isn't able to reach its destination. Instead, it overflows and runs down the sides of your home and can even seep into the basement through cracks in the foundation.
Your gutters need to be cleaned regularly. This is especially important in the fall when leaves are falling and debris is building up. If you're not familiar with the best methods for cleaning your gutters, consider hiring a professional such as Gutter Cleaning Gaithersburg to do it for you.
Clogged Gutter
A clogged gutter isn't an easy problem to fix. It usually begins at the point where your gutter meets the rooftop opening of your downspouts. When a clump of leaves plugs this entrance, the water isn't able to escape and overflows into your gutter and eventually out into your yard.
In most cases, a clogged gutter can be avoided with a regular inspection and cleaning routine. It's also a good idea to have a gutter guard installed as they can help prevent clogs in the first place.
Keep a Home Inventory
It's wise to create an inventory of your belongings and store them in waterproof bins, particularly if they are stored in areas that are at risk for water leaks or a sewer backup. This will ensure that any valuables aren't damaged by moisture or mold growth in the event of a loss.
Install a Leak Detection Sensor
There are many different types of leak detection sensors available that can be placed in strategic locations to give you real-time alerts of potential leaks throughout your home. They can be easy to use and cost-effective, and they will help you avoid major damage if a leak ever occurs in your home.
Get Your Gutters Cleaned Every Month
When it comes to your gutters, it's easy to forget about them until they become a big problem. That's why it's important to set a monthly inspection and cleaning schedule for your gutters.
During this time, you can inspect the entire gutter, starting at the downspout end and working your way up to the gutter outlet, looking for clogs of weeds, leaves, and other organic debris. Once you've gotten the gutters as clean as possible, you can start flushing out any remaining gunk with a hose.
Getting your gutters cleaned and protected by a gutter guard is the best way to avoid clogs. It's also a great way to ensure that your gutters remain free of ice dams during winter, which can cause damage to the roof and the foundation of your home.
