Gutters and downspouts play an important role in a home’s drainage and runoff. When water lands on the roof, it flows into the gutters and through the downspouts, at which point it runs away from the home’s foundation.
Unfortunately, though, gutters don’t always work as intended. If leaves, tree limbs and other debris get stuck inside, it can restrict the flow of water.
So, what’s the big deal of having clogged gutters? As stated above, gutters are essential for proper drainage and runoff.
Allowing debris to clog your gutters will result in water pooling in the gutters. And when this occurs, moisture may seep into the roof and attic, as well as your foundation.
Of course, this can open up the doors to a whole new world of problems, such as mold and mildew and jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.
Trim Away Limbs From Over Your House
There are a few steps that you can take to protect your gutters from falling leaves and tree limbs, however, one of which is to trim away any overhanging branches.
Using a ladder and trimming shears, cut away as many overhanging branches as possible. Depending on the branches height and location, you may not be able to access all of them.
However, removing the largest and most problematic branches will make a world of difference in keeping your gutters clean.
Install Gutter Guards
Another helpful tip to keep your gutters clean is to install a shield or “guard” over them.
Basically, this is a mesh-like screen that’s placed over the gutters. It allows water to flow in and through them with while blocking trees and debris.
Installing a guard over your gutters isn’t an easy process, especially for homes with large roofs. With that said, it can still prove helpful in protecting your gutters from debris that could otherwise clog them.
Even if you decide to install a guard over your gutters, you’ll still need to clean them on a regular basis. Guards or other protective shields won’t stop limbs and debris from landing on your roof, rather it blocks them from entering the gutters.
Of course, if you really want to keep your gutters clean, you should consider hiring a professional tree removal company. They will come to your home, removing any trees that are clogging your gutters.
This is really the only sure-fire way to keep your gutters clean and free or debris.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
Got gutter guards installed last year and It helped a ton!
My landlords recently had our roof reshingled, and the old gutters were removed in the process. It has been several weeks since then, so I’ve been meaning to ask about the gutters. I’m sure they are planning on having them replaced soon. I think it would be a good idea to suggest that they install guards while they’re at it. It would really help us out, and it would prevent their property from potential water damage caused by leaves and other debris.
Thank you for suggesting to trim away limbs that are over my house. It is great that you share that I should cut away the biggest ones, and the ones I can reach. I will also need to find a gutter repair place, because the tree branches have caused some damage.
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