Gutter Guards: Leaves, Trees, And Bees - Oh, My!
Homeowners seldom give their gutters a second thought. Caring for your gutters, however, is essential to the health of your home's foundation. Using gutters guards makes cleaning and caring for your home's gutters easier.
Why does my house have gutters?
Gutters are attached to the edge of a home's roof to collect rain and other precipitation. The water runs off the roof and into the gutters. The gutters, in turn, transport the water to the corners of your home where it flows into downspouts and is channeled away from your home's foundation. Without gutters, rain would fall too close to your foundation and could damage it over time.
How often do gutters need to be cleaned?
Like rainwater, other items can end up in your gutters. Keeping your gutters cleaned at least twice a year will help prevent the build-up of debris, like leaves, twigs, and even dead rodents. Trimming any nearby trees so that their branches do not overhang your roof can help decrease the number of leaves and twigs that wind up in your gutters as well.
What are gutters guards?
Gutters guards are a product designed to protect your gutters from debris by adding a cover to your gutters. The cover is perforated to allow water in while preventing debris from entering your gutters.
Why are gutters guards important?
Gutters guards prevent the accumulation of debris in your gutters, including:
Leaves
Dried leaves are the most common item that can collect in your gutters and create clogs. Worse yet, in colder climates, the leaves can combine with water and freeze. Clogged, frozen leaves can overpower the fastening system due to their weight and can also force water to back up into your attic.
Trees
In addition to leaves, seed pods and acorns can pile up in your gutters. While this may seem less bothersome than piles of frozen leaves, acorns and seed pods can take root and grow into trees before you know it. Left untouched, the tree roots can migrate under your shingles and into your attic.
Bees
Another pesky situation that can occur in your uncovered gutters is bee's nests. While it may not seem like a logical location for a nest, bees have been known to make their home in gutters. This not only creates a clog, but it also makes cleaning your gutters a nightmare, especially for homeowners who happen to be allergic to bee stings.
The easiest way to avoid all of the above is to install gutter guards. They provide a cover that lets water through and keeps leaves, trees, and bees out.
Clean, well-maintained gutters are important for the overall health of your home's roof and foundation. Gutter guards make the job of cleaning and maintaining your gutters simple.
For more information on gutter guards, contact a company in your area, such as Gutter Shutter SE WI.