Gutter cleaning is perhaps the most effective way to prevent premature roof damage. It’s not a walk in the park, but it’s relatively less stressful and costly than an average repair job.
So, how does ridding your gutters and downspouts of debris benefit your roof? Chase Roofing talks about the practical value of this task:
It Prevents Leaks
Your gutter system exists to ensure proper drainage. It’s a network of pipes attached to the fascia to direct rainwater and snowmelt from the roof safely to the ground. Any blockage impedes the flow of water, causing it to pond or go to places it shouldn’t reach.
Any reliable roofer like Chase Roofing knows that clogged gutters and downspouts are some of the leading causes of roof-related water intrusion. The more leaf-shedding trees you have surrounding your home, the more often your gutter system needs to be cleaned.
It Reveals Undiscovered Shingle-Balding Problems
Gutter maintenance can uncover one of the most worrisome shingle problems there is: granule loss. Surface granules protect shingles from ultraviolet radiation, delaying their natural process of deterioration. Plus, they lend the materials distinctive character. The older your shingles become, though, the more their volatiles dissipate. In turn, the bond between them and their granules weakens.
Generally, seeing loose granules in the gutters is a reminder that your roofing system will need a replacement in a few years. However, it’s not always a sign of aging. Shingles can become thin on top prematurely because of manufacturing defects, blistering and abrasion due to hail, foot traffic or branch friction. The sooner you learn about your balding shingles, the earlier you can address them.
It Reduces the Chances of Ice Damming
Ice dams can occur whether your gutter system is clean or not, but they’re more likely to form when water doesn’t drain from your roof properly. Ice dam prevention is just another motivation to keep your gutters and downspouts free of debris at all times.
You might think of gutter cleaning as a thankless task, but your home will appreciate it. To reduce the time you spend on maintenance dramatically, Chase Roofing recommends investing in gutter protection. Call us at (757) 872-0700 now to set up an inspection, and receive a free estimate in Yorktown, VA, or any neighboring community.
