DIY Builds
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko Pexels Logo Photo: Tima Miroshnichenko

What happens if you don t clean your gutters?

When you don't clean your gutters, the downspout can get clogged from leaves, debris, or any matter that can wind up there. This blockage then leaves standing water to collect and eventually overflow. Left unattended to, the leaves that clog up your gutter can begin to decompose and eventually rot.

cleanbreakhomeservices.com - How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?
How far can you run 12 gauge wire without a voltage drop?
How far can you run 12 gauge wire without a voltage drop?

As an example, for a 120-volt circuit, you can run up to 50 feet of 14 AWG cable without exceeding 3 percent voltage drop. ... For 240-volt...

Read More »
How long will a pallet shed last?
How long will a pallet shed last?

4. Treated Pallets Last a Long Time. The USDA requires the treatment of pallets with a wood preservative. This means each pallet is resistant to...

Read More »

As a homeowner, gutter maintenance becomes easy to overlook—especially since it's not the most fun activity for an afternoon. People tend to procrastinate or forget about cleaning their gutters until it becomes too late. But, keeping your gutter clean is essential for a safe and long-lasting home. Not doing so can end up leading to significant and costly headaches. While it may be an inconvenience for a couple of hours, the effort is well worth it in the long run. Gutters in Vancouver are particularly more susceptible to damage because of the amount of rainfall the city gets. Constant precipitation and freezing temperatures can lead to overflow or leakage if a gutter gets clogged. Thankfully, there are exceptional gutter cleaners in Vancouver, like Clean Break Home Services, who know how to do the job right. Gutter neglect can lead to all kinds of damages on your roof, the exterior of your house, and even your driveway. That is why it's imperative to know when and how often to clean your gutter so that you can prevent disaster.

What Happens If You Don't Clean Your Gutters?

When it comes to gutters, everything can seem fine—until it's not. When you dismiss caring for your gutter, suddenly, the years add up, and you realize you have a big problem on your hands. Depending on the damage, it may be too late, and you'll have to replace the gutter altogether. But, all hope is not lost! You can prevent getting to that point by knowing what kind of consequences you might face if you leave this chore unchecked.

Leakage

When you don't clean your gutters, the downspout can get clogged from leaves, debris, or any matter that can wind up there. This blockage then leaves standing water to collect and eventually overflow.

Mold

Left unattended to, the leaves that clog up your gutter can begin to decompose and eventually rot. In a wet climate, like in the Pacific Northwest, mold will start to grow and thrive, leaving the exterior of your gutter blackened and looking filthy. Even worse, this mold can lead to a slew of health problems if it enters your house, and getting rid of it is expensive and inconvenient.

Roof Damage

You might not realize that neglecting your gutters can even lead to replacing your entire roof—which is no small or cheap feat. When you have a clogged gutter, rainwater has nowhere left to go but overflow or soak through your shingles and leak into your home. Your shingles then become softened and significantly damaged, allowing for more leakage from rainfall. The weight of the rainwater can also cause the gutter to rip and damage your roof. Not only would you have to replace your roof and gutter, but you may have to deal with water damage within your home.

What is the difference between a shed roof and a gable roof?
What is the difference between a shed roof and a gable roof?

Gable roofs require a central ridge beam for support as well as multiple gutters and downspouts. However, they tend to feel more spacious than...

Read More »
What sells the most on Etsy 2022?
What sells the most on Etsy 2022?

What are the Top Selling Items on Etsy in 2022? Jewelry. Wedding Items. Accessories. Paper & Party supplies. Clothing. Vintage Items. Home &...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Bugs, Insects, and Pests

When leaves decompose, it starts to attract unwanted tenants like bugs, pests, and other critters. The rotting leaves are a rich and accessible food source that draws in all sorts of pests to your gutter—making them one step closer to entering your home.

Driveway Destruction

Another consequence you might not even realize is that a clogged gutter can lead to destruction to your driveway and yard. When there's poor drainage, the excess water can pool up and cause mold growth on your driveway. In the winter months, that water could freeze and turn into ice that causes dangerous slips and falls. While all of these outcomes might terrify you, know that you're still ahead of the problem. Now that you know what could happen when you neglect gutter maintenance, here you can learn how to spot potential damage.

How Do You Find Damage From Unclean Gutters?

While the best first line of defence is cleaning your gutters routinely, there are a few warning signs you can look out for to make sure that the problem doesn't progress to something more serious. Age: How old are your gutters? Typically gutters only last 15-20 years until you need to replace them. Depending on how old it is, it might be more susceptive to damage if you don't do routine checks. Pooling: If you notice pools of water around your lawn or driveway, you may be experiencing some drainage issues from your gutter. Water inside: A key indicator that you might have some water drainage or leakage issue is finding it inside the home. Dripping gutters: When gutters drip or water doesn't flow through properly, it's almost a surefire sign of a clogged pipe.

When Should You Clean Your Gutters

So really, how often should you clean your gutters? Most professionals recommend you to have your gutters inspected at least 1-2 times a year in the spring and fall. But where you live also plays a factor. For gutter cleaning in Vancouver, where it rains the majority of the year, you might have to have it done more frequently, especially if your home is beside trees that shed often. Or, if you live in a city that gets below freezing temperatures in the wintertime, your primary concern would be checking your gutters right before winter to prevent any water blockages from freezing up and cause damage to your roof. Another instance for when you should clean your gutters is after a severe weather storm. Leaves, branches, and debris might find their way to your roof and gutter, causing sudden blockages.

Are geo maps accurate?
Are geo maps accurate?

Most smartphone GPS receivers have an accuracy of 5 meters or approximately 15 feet. However the accuracy could worsen near buildings, structures,...

Read More »
Do Copperheads like wood piles?
Do Copperheads like wood piles?

Copperheads feed on mice, lizards, frogs, birds, and some insects. They live in wooded areas, near ponds and streams, around rocks, and other...

Read More »

What's the Best Way to Clean Gutters?

There are two ways you can take care of your gutters; you can do it yourself or hire professional gutter cleaners. Both are excellent options depending on what your comfort level is. Doing it yourself isn't that complicated; it requires a ladder and getting your hands dirty. However, it can be exhausting, time-consuming, and unsafe if you're not careful. Remembering these tips will keep you safe and protected while cleaning your gutters: Wear goggles: you might think you don't need protective equipment to clear out some leaves, but dirt and debris could get into your eyes if you're not wearing goggles. Have a friend help you: Being on a ladder can be hazardous if you're not careful. Wear a hard hat, have a friend secure your ladder, and watch for a potential fall. Prepare your materials beforehand: You might have to use a hose, sealant, or plumber's snake tool to get the job done, so make sure you safely place equipment where you can easily reach them. Having to go up and down the ladder only opens you up to more chances of injury. Look out for leaks and use a high-quality sealant to stop water from seeping through the gutter. Dispose of the rubbish you retrieve from your gutter in a garbage bag. Don't clean one mess only to leave another mess elsewhere! Check your downspouts for clogs. While you might've cleared your gutter, the downspout could still have a blockage that prevents water from draining freely. Ensure your gutters are securely attached to your roof. If it's not connected to the fascia, the longboard that lines your roof, the damage may be more severe, and you might have to remove and replace your gutter.

How to Find Gutter Cleaners in Vancouver

If the DIY-way is not for you, you might want to consider hiring professionals to care for your gutters. You can save yourself a headache by having experts do the work. For gutter cleaning in Vancouver, we at Clean Break Home Services are home experts that provide quality, affordable care for your home. From interior to exterior gutter cleaning, we help prevent any costly water damages to your home with our state-of-the-art equipment.

Let us do the work for you—contact us today for an estimate!

cleanbreakhomeservices.com - How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?
How can you tell if firewood is seasoned?
How can you tell if firewood is seasoned?

How to tell if wood is seasoned Color. Color fades over time. ... Shape. Splitting wood speeds up the drying process. ... Weight. As wood dries, it...

Read More »
How much does it cost to build a mini shed?
How much does it cost to build a mini shed?

A small 4-foot by 7-foot shed ranges from around $100 to $1,000, while a larger 12-foot by 16-foot shed runs about $3,000 to $15,000. It's not just...

Read More »
What is the perfect size house?
What is the perfect size house?

On average, the ideal square footage is about 600 – 700 square feet per person. That means a family of three will want a house that's at least...

Read More »
What's the hardest wood known to man?
What's the hardest wood known to man?

1. Australian Buloke – 5,060 IBF. An ironwood tree that is native to Australia, this wood comes from a species of tree occurring across most of...

Read More »